The Marie L. Greenwood Elementary School (K-5) is one of the newest members of the DPS family. The far northeast community will celebrate the building's "official" opening with a dedication ceremony to be held at the school (5130 Durham Ct.) on Thursday, October 11, 2001 at 1:30 p.m.

"This new school will serve one purpose and one purpose only -- the instructional growth and development of our children," said Greenwood Principal Shurwood S. Reynolds. "It is within our grasp. For the children's sake, we can do no less than try."

A host of community members are expected to attend the festivities that will include performances by Greenwood students, Montbello High School and the Cleo Parker Robinson Dancers and a presentation by the Colorado Chapter of Alpha Kappa Alpha to Mrs. Greenwood for whom the school was named. Greenwood was the first African-American female teacher to be given a contract at DPS where she taught for 30 years. DPS Board President Elaine Gantz-Berman, Vice President Bennie Milliner, and Board Member Les Woodard are also expected to attend.

The school, which opened its doors on August 20th of this year, was completed in 14 months at a cost of $8 million dollars. Montbello residents have been excited about the new school, which will serve approximately 600 students.

"The opportunity to work with educators and the surrounding community has been a delight," said Project Manager Marvin Stone. "In developing this beautiful educational facility, we knew the faculty, staff, and students would benefit from its charm and character."

Greenwood Elementary offers 27 classrooms that include four Early Childhood Education rooms and a computer lab. In addition to the multi-purpose field, students will also benefit from the intermediate and primary playgrounds designed to meet ADA requirements. This project was built with proceeds from the $305 million dollar bond approved by voters in 1998.