GALESBURG, Illinois - Monday, April 4, 2016, marked the first day of classes for a new grade school in Galesburg.
Silas Willard Elementary School offers hope to a school district that's battling staff and program cuts.
"It's been a long process," said Principal Tiffany Springer. "But I think the means to the end has really paid off."
Some 450 students are now attending classes in the new school.
For them, it's overwhelming and awesome at the same time.
"It's really exciting because I get to make new memories here with my brother," said Kate Davis, 10.
It's quite a change from the century-old Silas Willard School just next door on Fremont Street.
That's where future-President Ronald Reagan attended first grade back in 1917.
A vintage cabinet salvaged from the original building sparks memories from the original building.
There's a nice-looking timeline on display to remember that tradition.
"We're part of history," Springer continued. "That's what I want to share with the kids. You have a place in history. What are you going to make of that?"
Student tours showcase the modern design.
It's all about technology, with WiFi access, computers and more.
"I think it's a new start," Springer said. "It's a celebration of all the efforts of the community members and taxpayers in Galesburg."
While the school cost more than $18 million, it was paid for through a penny sales tax and life safety fund.
"I hope everyone enjoys it and appreciates all the money that was put into this," said First Grade Teacher Valerie Erickson. "It's a very nice school."
The new library represents a future where students will discover a world of words.
"We have new desks," Davis added. "I like how we have dry eraser boards."
Rooms are spacious, bright and offer plenty of "wow" factor.
"We get a new building," Davis concluded. "It's just awesome."
When the district demolishes the original building in May, its outline will become the borders for a new playground.