Parmalee Elementary’s diamond anniversary

Community celebrates school’s success, smalltown atmosphere

BY DEB HURLEY BROBST DBROBST@COLORADOCOMMUNITYMEDIA.COM

e atmosphere at Parmalee Elementary School was a combination birthday party and reunion celebration as the school honored its 60 diamond anniversary.

e low-key open house on May 3 began with a rousing chorus of “Happy Birthday to You,” followed by lots of cake cut by 23-year principal Ingrid Mielke — served to current and former students, parents, former faculty and more. While the children had a dance party in the gymnasium, the adults toured the school, spoke with old and new friends, and looked at 60 years’ worth of yearbooks. Some tried to nd themselves in class photos.

e biggest change, many noted, is the increasing enrollment and how the building itself has changed. e entryway has moved, classrooms have moved to accommodate a