JACKSON – A township school recently celebrated its half century anniversary with balloons, speeches and sharing of memories.
The event included a ribbon cutting at the Carl W. Goetz Middle School to celebrate the 50th Anniversary of the school’s opening and all the students were invited outside to hear some remarks from the school principal and share in some music.
The Carl W. Goetz school opened 50 years ago as an “open school” without classroom walls, which was a progressive classroom concept in education at the time, and interior walls were later constructed. It is named after Carl W. Goetz, who was a Board of Education member for almost 30 years and a pioneer for education in Jackson.
Goetz was born in 1912 and was a student in Jackson’s one-room Cassville Schoolhouse, which was the only school in Jackson at the time. During his tenure on the board, Jackson built five new schools in five years.
Following the cutting of the ribbon the entire school entered through the doors to officially begin the school’s 50th year.
Carl W. Goetz Middle School Principal Carl Perino speaks during the 50th anniversary celebration of the school. (Photo courtesy Jackson Schools)
The celebration also served to introduce the school’s new mascot, which will be given a name later this year through a vote by the school. The cougar mascot was on hand to welcome students through the door.
Goetz Principal Carl Perino said, “Today, we gather to celebrate the 50th anniversary of Carl W. Goetz Middle School. It’s a momentous occasion, not just for the institution but for the countless lives it has touched, molded, and inspired over the past five decades.”
“Fifty years ago, this school opened its doors with a vision to nurture, educate, and guide the young minds of our community. Today, as we stand here, reflecting on this incredible journey, it’s evident that this institution has far surpassed those initial aspirations,” he added.
Perino added, “the heart of any school is not its buildings or its facilities, but its people. It’s the teachers who dedicate their lives to imparting knowledge and wisdom, the students who bring vibrancy and curiosity into these halls, the supportive families who entrust us with their children’s education, and the staff who work tirelessly behind the scenes to make this place a second home for all.”
The principal added that in the last 50 years, “we’ve seen transformations – not just in the physical landscape of our school but in the very essence of education. We’ve witnessed the shift from traditional teaching methods to embracing innovation, technology, and a more holistic approach to learning.”
“Our school has evolved, adapted, and continued to excel in providing a well-rounded education that prepares students for the challenges of the future. To the students who are the heartbeat of this institution, remember that you are the living legacy of this school,” he added.
“Carry the values instilled in you, the knowledge acquired, and the friendships forged, as you step into the world beyond these walls. Let us continue to strive for excellence, not just in academics but in being compassionate, innovative, and responsible citizens. Let’s commit ourselves to another 50 years and beyond,” the principal said.
Perino added, “Happy 50th Anniversary, Goetz! Here’s to the past, present, and the ever-exciting future!”
The Goetz Middle School in Jackson Township has a new mascot. The big cat doesn’t have a name yet but that will come after a student vote later in the school year. (Photo courtesy Jackson Schools)
Superintendent Nicole Pormilli said the ribbon-cutting ceremony was the perfect way to celebrate the beginning of the 50th year of the school.
“It was so special to watch the entire school walk through those doors together and to think about all the students who have come before them, and all who will come after,’’ she said.
She added, “we are very rich in tradition here in Jackson and it was an honor to celebrate the past, present and future of this wonderful school.’’
The woman in the photo is Student Assistant Counselor Stacey Fisk’s mother, Leona Sherman. The woman standing in this old photo is Barbara Robbins who also worked at the school. (Photo courtesy Jackson Schools)
Pormilli complimented the school staff and administrative team for their organization of the event and the PTN for donating the beautiful balloon displays.
“I am so proud of our staff and students and love to see the energy and camaraderie in our schools. It was an honor to be part of it and to cut that ribbon to kick off the 50th year,” Pormilli added.
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