When they gather together July 29-31 for their 30th reunion, members of Staples’ Class of 1981 may not consider themselves old. Reunion-goers never do.
But consider this: On their very 1st day in high school — as sophomores in the fall of 1978 — ground was broken on a new “modernization” project. It would tie Staples’ 9 separate buildings together, into one cohesive whole.
James Hill, Jerry Finch and Jeb Backus in the now-demolished courtyard, fall of 1980.
Three years later — a few days before graduation — a ribbon was cut celebrating the “new” Staples.
The new building lasted a long time. But eventually it too got old. An entirely new “new” school was needed.
Meetings were held. Plans were created. Objections were raised. New drawings were drawn. Contracts were bid. Land surveys were made. Construction began.
The “old” Staples was dismantled, brick by brick. Construction continued. Delays were encountered. Finally, the new “new” building was finished.
And it’s been around long enough for one entire school generation — 4 years now, not 3 — to go all the way through it. Another is well on its way.
So I don’t want to call the Class of 1981 old (even though they are).
Because I’m celebrating my reunion too this year.
And I was there in Staples’ heyday of 9 separate buildings.
Class of ’71, baby. And we’re still young!
(Registration for the Class of 1981 reunion is open until July 15. Click here, or call 203-856-0954.
(The Class of 1966 has a reunion July 22-24; contact lights47@aol.com for information, and check out the website here.
(For information on the Class of 1971 reunion August 12-14, email reunion71@ymail.com.
(The Class of 1976 gathers this weekend — click here for information.
(And — just to plan ahead — the Classes of 1951 and ’52 plan a reunion August 24-26, 2012. Email bigclipper@verizon.net for details.)
This photo was on the Class of 1981 website. It doesn't look like it was a school function -- but given the times, it might have been.
