Ben Franklin School Celebrates 50 Years

Editor's Note: The following is a news release issued by Lawrence Township Public Schools.

is 50! The school plans to celebrate all year long and welcomes you to join them at the anniversary kick-off on Saturday, Sept. 24, at the school.

Parents, students, and community members are invited from noon to 2 p.m. for a proclamation from the State of New Jersey, an open microphone forum for sharing memories, and a 50th Anniversary tree dedication ceremony with a distinguished group of the nine former BF principals.

The school's first principal was Larry Ksanznak, and he joined current Principal Chris Turnbull in welcoming staff and students back to school this month, sharing some Ben Franklin history with all.

On Friday, Sept. 23, Ben Franklin will welcome all nine former Ben Franklin principals back to school to begin commemorating the school's half-century milestone.

The eight former Principals joining Mr. Ksanznak and Mr. Turnbull on Sept. 23 are: Robert Dornish, Joseph Stroman, Ernest Smith, Russ Stanley, Richard Graja, Robert Copeland, Bernard Bricketto, and William Buss. Many of these gentlemen still reside locally but three are coming from out of state, one of them from Florida.

Activities planned for the nine visiting principals on Sept. 23 include an assembly for the students at 10 a.m. and afternoon classroom visits.

Built in 1961 as a kindergarten through sixth-grade school, Ben Franklin grew with two additions, a community-built playground which was later replaced by the current playground, and outdoor teaching space which has also been replaced with new parking areas.

Be a part of the memories and join the Ben Franklin community on Saturday, Sept. 24, at noon at the school.