On the Last Day of School, Medlock Elementary Closes Doors – For Good

Typically the last day of the school year means smiling faces and lots of laughing as soon as the final bell rings. That wasn’t the case for on Friday. This time the last day of school meant the end of an era, as Medlock Elementary permanently closes its doors after 50 years due to redistricting in DeKalb County.

Principal Fred Hammond, who has been at the school since 2004, said goodbye to his students as they boarded the buses with high fives and hugs.

“I’m sad to see the children go, but I know they’re prepared and will carry the Mustang spirit wherever they go,” Hammond said.

Many teachers had tears in their eyes as they gave hugs to students before the children got on the bus or walked home with parents. Tenure was a common ground for the employees at Medlock Elementary. Raylene Lowe had been a counselor at the school for 20 years, and Jane Alexander, who lives in the neighborhood, had been teaching there since 1997, and had been affiliated with the school since 1989 when her daughter began school.

“I don’t understand why. Why do you need to make it close? I love my school,” said first-grader Grace Salazar.

“It’s a good school. She’s really loved it,” said her father, Albert Salazar, as he gave his daughter a hug.

As the school buses began to drive off, the teachers of Medlock Elementary watched and waved.

“I love you, sweetie,” Ms.  Lowe said to one of the students.