SALISBURY — The staff and students of Koontz Elementary celebrated a decade in education on April 15 at 9 a.m. The nephew of the late Elizabeth Duncan Koontz, Earl and Phyllis Duncan, their son Brian Duncan, the first principal of the school Dr. Robert Heffern and his wife Diane Heffern, former assistant principal Marae Reid, former staff, retirees, parents and volunteers attended the celebration.

The Koontz Student Government led the pledge of allegiance. The Honors Chorus sang the National Anthem. Co-Principal Yakisha Clemons made some introductory remarks. Assistant Principal Timothy Dryman recognized  honored guests. This was followed by a presentation on the life of the late Elizabeth Duncan Koontz.

Some students  in uniforms and ethnic attire from their country of origin emphasized the fact that “Koontz Panthers are a family that live, learn and love.” The fifth grade students shared the time capsule they had created for the event. K-5 students entertained the audience with a medley of songs from Celebration to Happy Anniversary. The highlight of the event was the release of balloons. Nine staff members who have worked since the inception of the school were invited to release the balloons. The day was a celebration of the Koontz spirit of family, diversity and learning.