Students and staff of Dayton Elementary School recently gathered in the school’s gymnasium to witness the dedication of a bench in honor of the memory of a community member.
The playground itself there was made possible thanks to the time and dedication of the Dayton Elementary Parent Teacher Organization, students, staff and countless organizations that had donated to the cause.
The ceremony, moved inside due to the weather, saw students and staff come together in the school’s gym to witness the dedication.
The bench was donated to the playground by Marybeth Dean, in honor of her late husband, Lowell Dean.
Speaking to the assembled crowd, school Librarian and Gifted Support Teacher Kerry Harding told those present about Lowell.
Lowell was a former teacher at Dayton High School for 30 years, teaching chemistry, physics and general science.
After retiring from teaching at the high school level, Lowell would continue teaching, moving on to teach at IUP and Clarion University (modern-day PennWest University).
“This playground stands as a testament to (Lowell’s) dedication to our children,” Harding said.
Harding then presented a plaque — a copy of the one on the bench — to Marybeth as a thanks for her donation to the Dayton Elementary Playground, saying, “On behalf of the students, teachers, staff, and Dayton families, thank you (Marybeth) for your generosity. You’ve improved our school beyond measure.”
Harding then thanked the volunteers and organizations who donated their time and work in, “... making the playground a reality.”
Students ended the ceremony by providing a round of applause to everyone who helped.