Lowell Elementary Celebrates 200 Years While Honoring Beloved Educator Dave Stroud
Lowell Elementary School marked 200 years of serving students and families with a bicentennial celebration honoring its deep community roots, including the dedication of the “Leopard Loop” trail in honor of retired teacher Dave Stroud. The surprise tribute recognized Stroud’s lifelong connection to Lowell, from student to educator, and celebrated the traditions and relationships that continue to define the school’s legacy in Warren Township.
Lowell Elementary School recently celebrated a remarkable milestone — 200 years of serving students and families — with a bicentennial celebration that honored the school’s deep community roots and one educator whose impact has spanned generations.
As part of the celebration, Lowell officially dedicated its “Leopard Loop” trail in honor of retired teacher and longtime Lowell supporter Dave Stroud, a surprise recognition that left the beloved educator emotional.
Stroud’s connection to Lowell runs deeper than most.
“Dave is what makes Lowell what it is. He has been a forever Lowell Leopard.”
— Kim Griffin, Principal, Lowell Elementary School
“This has been a place that I went to school here a long time ago and ended up teaching here for a long time,” Stroud said. “It just means a lot to me.”
During the bicentennial process, Stroud helped gather historical photographs, memorabilia, and artifacts to help tell Lowell’s story across generations.
“I tried to find things that would reach out to people that went to school here — kids that are here now, kids that were here ten years ago, kids that were here 60 years ago,” Stroud said.
Principal Kim Griffin said honoring Stroud was an easy decision because he represents the spirit of Lowell.
“Dave is what makes Lowell what it is,” Griffin said. “He has been a forever Lowell Leopard.”
For Lowell Elementary, the bicentennial celebration was not just about looking back at history. It was about honoring the people, traditions, and relationships that continue to make the school a special part of the Warren Township community.
Share This Story