Brittani and Kiah said they've enjoyed the first two months in the school, saying it was bigger and has air conditioning. They especially like the large gymnasium and media center.
"But we have to graduate next year," Brittani, 10, said. "At least we get to be the first to graduate from this school."
Demolition of the old Maugansville Elementary, in front of the site where the new school now stands, began last week to make way for a paved access road leading to the new school. It was one of three new or replacement schools that opened in August. The others were Pangborn and Rockland Woods elementary schools.
Dedication ceremonies for the other two schools already have been held.
"I'm thrilled for you," Washington County Public Schools Superintendent Elizabeth Morgan on Tuesday told the more than 650 students of Maugansville Elementary. "It's just so beautiful."
Morgan praised the effort of those who "worked behind the scenes" to build the school. Washington County Board of Education President Roxanne R. Ober thanked parents for their commitment to the students and their efforts in making the building a reality.
Maryland Del. Andrew A. Serafini, R-Washington, read a proclamation from Gov. Martin O'Malley, and Sen. Donald F. Munson, R-Washington, recalled the day in April 2007 when he attended a groundbreaking ceremony for the new school, where his grandchild is enrolled.
Deputy Superintendent of the Maryland State Department of Education Ronald Peiffer attended the ceremony and praised the local school system for being a leader in school construction and a model of achievement for the rest of the state.
