West Hempstead School Celebrates its 104th Anniversary

The Chestnut Street School in West Hempstead celebrated its 104th anniversary on Jan. 13 with a dedication display highlighting the history of the school and the ringing of the historic Meneely Bell.

Gathered in the entrance of the district administration building, two representatives from the West Hempstead Historical Society, President John Shaud and Vice President and Archives Director Leslie McAvoy, taught teachers, central administrators, board of education members and kindergartners about the history of the building’s grounds and how the school was established and developed over time.

Afterward, the young students assisted Shaud, McAvoy and Superintendent of Schools Patricia Sullivan-Kriss in unveiling the “History of Chestnut Street” dedication plaque. Framed in rich oak with a brass engraving, the plaque features photos of the building, students and teachers over the last 100 years.

Following the unveiling, Chestnut Street Principal Faith Tripp rang the Meneely Bell that sits atop the building to honor the school’s anniversary. In the past, the ringing of the bell signaled the arrival and dismissal times of the school day.

Photos: West Hempstead School District