Walnut Street School in downtown Des Moines celebrated its final day as an elementary school with a mix of emotions. The school, known for its close-knit community and academic rigor, is closing as part of Des Moines Public Schools’ Reimagining Education plan. For many families, the school was more than just a place of learning; it was a community hub.

A Community Farewell

Jamie Barry, a parent and staff member, reflected on her 15-year connection with the school. Her journey began when her oldest child started preschool at Walnut Street, and over the years, all three of her children attended. Barry’s involvement extended beyond parenting as she volunteered, served on the PTO, and worked as a substitute teacher. “It just feels very final,” Barry shared, likening the closure to a family breaking apart.

On the final day, students enjoyed games, inflatables, and a talent show, creating lasting memories. Katie Briggs, who spent 14 years at the school, expressed the difficulty of saying goodbye to students and colleagues. “A lot of memories. Saying goodbye to students is really hard,” she said, emphasizing the importance of leaving families with positive memories.

A Unique Educational Experience

Walnut Street School stood out for its International Baccalaureate programming and small class sizes, attracting students from across the metro area. The school operated as a school-of-choice, making enrollment highly competitive. Chanel Harris-Burke, a parent, chose Walnut Street for its strong sense of community. “Everybody knows his name. The teachers know all these children’s names,” she noted, highlighting the school’s unique environment.

While the building will be repurposed as office space, the relationships and community spirit fostered at Walnut Street will continue to resonate with families and staff as they transition to new schools within the district.

Original reporting: KCCI Des Moines — read the source article.