Northville School Reopens After Major Renovation
Northville couldn’t be more excited as the historic Old Village School, a local landmark, is now back in action after nearly six years of being closed. This past November 11, the community celebrated the school’s dramatic $10 million makeover during a lively open house event that swiftly followed a heartfelt ribbon-cutting ceremony. And guess what? The lucky ribbon-cutter was none other than four-year-old William “Duke” Fitzgerald, a proud student from the revamped early childhood center and part of a family with an incredible eight generations in Northville!
A Beautiful Blend of Past and Future
Superintendent Mary Kay Gallagher couldn’t hide her delight. “The building is beautiful,” she said, expressing gratitude to everyone who contributed to this renovation project, even as the chilly weather didn’t deter the well-attended crowd. “It is a perfect mix of honoring tradition and looking to the future.”
The newly renovated school opened its doors to excited early childhood students and district staff on October 15, just a few short weeks after their initial goal at the beginning of the school year. Before the big day, kiddos had classes in the former Main Street School, right next door. Gallagher noted that the delay in the renovation simply built up anticipation. “Honestly, I think the kids were buzzing with excitement by the time we finally got to let them in!”
A Rich and Eventful History
Let’s sprinkle in a touch of history. The Old Village School, located at 405 Main Street, has been a pillar of education in Northville since it first opened its doors in 1917. It was originally known as the Union School. After 63 years of serving general education classes, it transitioned in 1980 to become home to the groundbreaking Special Education Center, providing essential services for children with significant special needs.
The school was forced to close in 2012 due to various funding challenges that forced a shift in students to another facility. Yet, it wasn’t the end for this beloved building. The community came together, and with the passage of a sizeable $104 million bond in 2017, the stage was set for this comeback tale to unfold.
From Duct Tape to Dreams
Reflecting on tougher times, James Mazurek, the school board president, shared a nostalgic, yet bittersweet memory of the financial struggles on a chilly day. “We faced a financial crisis that led us to challenge our staff to make every piece of infrastructure last just a little bit longer… sometimes with duct tape and bubble gum!” he recalled. “We had to mothball Old Village School in 2012. Things were bleak.”
Fortunately, the entire Northville community rallied together, leading to a bright turnaround for the district. “One year ago, the community agreed to maintain our bond … allowing us to update every building in the district and finally create a 21st-century environment for our children,” Mazurek noted proudly.
Excitement in the Air
The renovated Old Village School now boasts updated administrative offices, cutting-edge studio spaces, six bustling classrooms, and even more rooms ready for future early childhood program expansion. Teacher Sandi Maynard shared her joy as she described her new classroom: “Words can’t express how excited my 15 kiddos were. The first thing they wanted to know was whether the bathrooms worked!”
Her fellow teacher, Sarah Hoppenworth, couldn’t agree more. “The excitement was palpable. They were thrilled to see their new cubby spaces, and those big windows filled the rooms with natural light!”
Indeed, change is in the air, and the Old Village School is not just a building but a testament to resilience, renewal, and the energy of community spirit. Northville has truly embraced the future while cherishing its past.
As Northville residents settle into their revitalized gem, it’s clear that the iconic Old Village School has returned—better than ever and ready to create new memories!
