Graham School Opens Newly Renovated Auditorium

MOUNT VERNON, NY — The Mount Vernon City School District held a ribbon cutting ceremony on Tuesday, October 25, 2016 for the newly renovated auditorium at Graham School. One of the first completed projects of the 20/20 Vision and 2016 Bond, the 406 seat auditorium has been restored and renovated to accommodate the district’s increased focus on the arts.

“The auditorium is the centerpiece of any facility, but especially in an elementary school. It is essential that teachers and students have an appropriate gathering space to celebrate accomplishments and achievements, recognize milestones and showcase their talents. This new auditorium is a shining example of what can be expected throughout our schools as the 20/20 vision comes into focus,” said Superintendent of Schools Dr. Kenneth R. Hamilton.

The $520,000 investment brought about a complete renovation of the interior space of the auditorium including new carpeting, seats, lighting, ceiling, stage and curtains. A key goal of the project was to provide an update to the auditorium without sacrificing the classic architecture and character of the space.

“We are thrilled to officially open this amazing auditorium,” said Graham School Principal Natasha Hunter McGregor. “We are so glad that the beginning phases of the 20/20 Vision are taking place right here at Graham School.”

Attention was paid to maintain the feel and style of the auditorium first opened in 1941. The renovation, completed this fall, was the first major renovation performed on the facility since its opening 75 years ago.

About Mount Vernon City School District

With more than 8,000 students in 16 schools, the Mount Vernon City School District is committed to providing a quality education to its children as well as developing programs that meet the diverse academic and social needs of its students.

PHOTO: (pictured from left-right) Dr. Jeff Gorman, Deputy Superintendent; Adriane Saunders, Vice President of the Board of Trustees; Natasha Hunter McGregor, Principal Graham Elementary School; Dr. Kenneth R. Hamilton, Superintendent of Schools; Ken Silver, Assistant Superintendent for Business/ contributed