District News

When Blandford School celebrates its 50th anniversary on May 20 from 3-7 pm at the school, it will be a family-friendly party that the organizing committee hopes will fit the ethos the school has cultivated for half a century now.

Lisa Scheid is the Chairperson of the City PTSA Blandford Committee and though she didn’t know she’d be planning an anniversary party when she took on the job, she said she was more than happy to step up for a school she has grown to love.

“Oh my gosh,” she said. “Blandford is such an amazing school. It’s hands-on, the students are outside every day, the teachers know how to push the students, and they love them too. I can’t say enough good things about Blandford.”

That love for Blandford has fueled the work she and a committee of five have done for the past half year as they plan a variety of events for May 20 to celebrate all the sixth-grade program has meant for so many over the years.

The open-house style gathering is free, but organizers would like people to RSVP online.

Things will begin with check-in and the signing of a guest book, including a chance to write memories of Blandford. A group of jazz musicians from City High (many of whom attended Blandford) will play at 3 pm and the Stringtown Trio (bluegrass, Celtic and folk music) at 4 pm.

Food trucks from El Caribe and the Underground Cookie Club will be on site, there will be a cash bar with beer and wine, yard games like bean bag toss will be available and, of course, the trails of the school and the adjoining Blandford Nature Center will be open for all to explore.

There also will be a looping slideshow inside the school that will feature numerous images from the school’s 50-year history and many of the school’s past teachers plan to attend and reconnect with former students.

“Attendees are invited to bring a blanket or camp chair to relax and soak up the good tunes and vibes,” Scheid said with a smile. “We really want people to be able to see classmates from their year and have a fun and relaxed time together.”

Scheid also encourages Blandford alumni to check out the 50th anniversary merchandise for sale online, a great opportunity to support the school and demonstrate Blandford pride.

And, she said with a laugh, for anyone wondering, the May 20 event will be on rain or shine.

“It's still a Blandford event,” she said. “We don’t let weather get in the way of a good time.”