Sunnyside Elementary School has now officially taken its place alongside the other halls of learning in the Smyrna School District.

Students, parents, teachers, administrators and school staff gathered in Sunnyside’s cafeteria and gymnasium on September 10 for the dedication of the new school, which opened its doors to students for the first time on August 25.

Also in attendance were elected officials and others who played a part in making the new school a reality.

Smyrna School District Superintendent Debbie Wicks said this new elementary school on Rabbit Chase Road completes district’s plan to double its capacity for students in kindergarten through fourth grade.

Wicks recognized local elected officials for their support, including the late Sen. James Vaughn, who once served on the Smyrna School Board.

“Our legislative team always keeps the education of our youth in the forefront of state policy,” she said.

Wicks also thanked Lee Vincent Ramunno, who donated the land for Sunnyside Elementary, and representatives of the Town of Smyrna.

She also recognized the Smyrna School District Board of Education.

“Their vision to give the Smyrna School District the best facilities possible has once again become a reality,” she said.

Wicks said the teachers, staff, custodians and administrators at Sunnyside put in extra effort to the new school off to a good start.

“Our school family’s willingness to do whatever it takes to get it done is very appreciated,” she said.

Assistant Superintendent Buddy Lloyd recognized the guests at the dedication ceremony, including elected officials like Senator Nancy Cook, Senator Bruce Ennis, Representative Pam Thornberg, Representative Bethany Hall-Long, and Kent County Levy Court commissioners Brooks Banta and Dick Ennis.

“Without their help and hard work, we could not have made this evening possible,” Lloyd said.

Bob Maffia of Tetra Tech and Jim Martini of Whiting-Turner Contracting officially presented the building to School Board President Jeff Clark.

Maffia said that once the work of designing and building the school is complete, it’s still just empty space; it’s not a school until you add the students.

“Mr. Clark, I can tell you this building is now a school,” Maffia said.

“It’s a great facility, it’s beautiful,” added Martini. “We wish Sunnyside Elementary all the success in the world.”

Clark joined with the Sunnyside Elementary administration in accepting the school building and dedicating it.

“This is a historic moment in the history of the Smyrna School District, and I’m so grateful to be a part of it,” said Kathy Castro, the principal at Sunnyside Elementary. “As I stand here this evening with representatives of our staff, I know we have assembled the very finest team to carry out our school’s vision for our students, which is to create a positive, nurturing, and academically enriched environment in which all students can become responsible and productive citizens with the knowledge, skills, and positive attitudes necessary to perform in an ever-changing and diverse environment.”

Several guests at the dedication also spoke during the ceremony.

“I want to thank all the teachers and staff for their dedication to the students, and to the parents who supported this building,” said Senator Bruce Ennis.

“What a great building to have your little Eaglets learn to soar and fly,” said Representative Pam Thornberg.

Smyrna Mayor Pat Stombaugh congratulated the Smyrna School District and recognized Superintendent Wicks for her work in the district.

“The energy she has – it just makes everyone want to get the job done,” Stombaugh said.
Connie Holland of State Planning said her own experience in the Smyrna School District has changed her life.

Holland said the new school shows that “the town, state and county can work together and get good things done.”

Developer Lee Ramunno, who donated the land for the school, also spoke at the ceremony.

“We’re happy we did this,” he said. “My wife and I are very strong on education.”

Ramunno also said it wouldn’t have been possible without Wicks’ energy and tenacity.

“The only difference between a pit bull and Ms. Wicks is the lipstick; she was wonderful,” he said. “I think it’s a wonderful school district we can all be proud of.”