Last Days for Lewis Elementary as Crews Prepare for Demolition
July 2, 2023 – Citizens of Excelsior Springs and generations of students are preparing to bid farewell to Lewis Elementary School, a cherished landmark since its completion in 1951. Once a vibrant hub of education and community, the school’s hallways are filled with nostalgia and memories as construction crews have been working tirelessly to salvage remnants and abate hazardous materials.
Having served as a middle school for many years before transitioning to an elementary, Lewis holds a special place in the hearts of many Excelsior Springs citizens. Countless students have passed through its halls, leaving behind their youthful footprints and gathering treasured memories. However, the inevitable march of progress has necessitated the school’s closure and subsequent demolition to make way for the modern facility that was voted into existence by voters last fall.
“It’s a bittersweet moment for everyone involved,” expressed Kalyn Goode, a lifelong Excelsior citizen, and current school board member. “The building holds so many memories for so many people. It’s sad to see it go, but we’re also excited about what the future holds for this space.”
The last days of Lewis Elementary School are a poignant reminder that progress often demands change. While it is heartbreaking to see the physical structure disappear, the spirit of Lewis Elementary will continue to thrive within the hearts and minds of all those touched by its legacy. As the demolition crews prepare to swing into action this week, Excelsior Springs bids farewell to an institution that shaped lives and inspired dreams for over seven decades.
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