Rochester, MN - Jefferson Elementary School is kicking off a year-long celebration of its 75th anniversary with the theme "75 reasons why...!". To commemorate this milestone, the school is partnering with its PTSA to launch a legacy mural project and is inviting the community to join the celebration at its annual fall carnival.
A central piece of the anniversary celebration is the creation of a large-scale exterior mural. The school seeks to raise $7,400 to fund the project and seeks community members or groups willing to donate to help cover the costs. Local muralist Cassandra Buck will facilitate the design and creation of the mural in a year-long collaborative process with Jefferson students and staff. The final installation will be prominently displayed on the exterior of the building, facing 14th Street, where kindergarteners enter the school each morning.
"For 75 years, Jefferson has been a cornerstone of this community, filled with dedicated staff, amazing students, and supportive families," said Principal Dana DeWitz. "Our theme, '75 reasons why...', allows us to celebrate every aspect of what makes our school special. This mural is a perfect legacy project, a collaborative piece of art created by our students and staff to beautify our school and inspire future generations for years to come."
The "75 reasons why..." theme will be integrated into school life throughout the year. Activities will highlight everything from academics, such as "75 reasons we love to read," to appreciation for students, staff, and families. Every student and staff member will also receive a commemorative 75th-anniversary t-shirt.
The anniversary will be celebrated with the school's annual fall carnival on Saturday, September 27, from 3-6 p.m. at Jefferson Elementary School (1201 10th Ave NE, Rochester, MN 55906). The event is open to the entire Rochester community, and the school hopes to welcome current families, alumni, and neighbors to celebrate the start of the school year and Jefferson’s legacy.
Community members, local businesses, or organizations interested in contributing to the Jefferson Elementary 75th Anniversary Mural Fund are encouraged to contact the Jefferson PTSA by emailing ptsa.jefferson@gmail.com or directly donating to this project at https://jeffjaguarsmn.givebacks.com/shop/items/1b75f6bc36.