MANAHAWKIN – This past September, Southern Regional Middle School opened its doors for the 50th school year. On this golden anniversary year, a new SRMS tradition emerged with an auspicious Welcome Wagon event for new students in August; then, the full student body was welcomed in September with special 50th anniversary t-shirts, pencils, and banners.
An extensive renovation to the front of the building took shape over the summer and fall, and on December 1, this group of students became the first to enjoy the newly updated main entrance. In its 50th year, the building is now graced with a new lighted sign, an extended awning, and vestibule.
Additionally, a permanent display honoring the 50th anniversary is being assembled. When the original bleachers and lockers were updated over the past several years, sections from each were kept to include in the planned display. To date, a set of original hallway locker doors has been framed with wood from the original bleachers. Newspaper articles from the 1971 opening of the building will be enlarged and added to the display with other artifacts, maintaining the building’s history and nostalgia.
Thanks to students, staff, Board of Education, and community, the SRMS facilities are well maintained and ready to serve our next generation of students.
