SCHOOL ALUMNI RETURNING TO FRANKLIN ELEMENTARY

Franklin Elementary School alumnus Larry Points reminisced about his childhood at the school and adult career as a National Park Service ranger during a visit with students Tuesday.

Points has co-authored three children's books about the wild horses and other animals inhabiting Assateague Island National Seashore in Maryland.

He shared images from his books and explained how his interest in the island's habitat was developed into a book series.

"There were a number of subjects about the beaches and animals that I found the information just didn't exist," Points said. "A colleague and I decided to write the books, and now I'm going to schools and sharing these with the children."

Points' visit to the school coincided with preparations for a Franklin school reunion and building dedication planned for 7 p.m. Friday.

Alumni and the public may attend a program marking the school's 74-year history and take tours of the newly renovated building.

Students from the Historic Preservation Program at Southeast Missouri State University are preparing a proposal to have Franklin listed on the National Register of Historic Places.

With the closing of May Greene and Washington schools last year, the Federalist-style building became the oldest elementary school operating in the district.

The school received renovations totaling $684,000 in last year. Among improvements were the construction of a new gymnasium renovation of the former gym into a cafeteria and library.

The existing library was converted into a computer lab, and a new security system was installed.

Principal Julie Davenport said she has received positive feedback from alumni who have visited the school this year.

Some, like Points, are enjoying an opportunity to share their memories with students. The children, in turn, are beginning to look at their school with new interest.

"There's just all kinds of history here," Davenport said. "We still have the old buckeye trees, so many items that have been here for many years. I think it's really important our kids understand the school means so much to people, not just in our community, but all over the country."

WANT TO GO:

WHAT: Alumni celebration and dedication of new gym and remodeled facilities.

WHEN: 7 p.m. Friday

WHERE: Franklin Elementary School, 215 N. Louisiana