History of River's Edge

Previously Known as Franklin Montessori School

Previously Known as Franklin Montessori School

Franklin School was opened in 1891. Mr. John Fenstermacher was appointed Principal. The school was named for Benjamin Franklin.

On November 2, 1956, Franklin School observed its 65th Anniversary. A large celebration was held in the school auditorium. By this time, several principals had held this position and they helped further the worthy plan, building the tradition that “Conduct Marks The Man”, our school motto. This motto is etched in the stained glass window in the front of our school.

Mrs. Sue Beeghly became Principal in 1938 and remained principal until 1962. She was the first principal to take traffic boys to see the Cincinnati Reds ball game. She also initiated the first “Safe Route to School” which is still used in the entire Dayton school System. Mrs. Beeghly retired in 1962 after 46 years in education.

In 1961, a dedication of an addition of the gymnasium and six addition rooms was held at school.

In 1966, twelve more additional rooms were added to the school. Franklin’s enrollment enlarged to one thousand students. The same year, we celebrated the 75th Anniversary of Franklin School. Mr. Dale Andrews was principal at this time. Forty-five staff members made up the Franklin faculty.

Desegregation by court order, brought busing into effect and students were bussed to Franklin School. Several effective programs have been at this school such as, “Follow Through” (1976-1981), a Federal supplemented program, I.G.E. program, Early Childhood, Summer School, Reading Recovery and Chapter One.

In the fall of 1989, it is projected that Franklin School will become a K-6 school. It is currently a K-3 school. Mrs. Judith O’Ryan is Principal of Franklin School and Ms. Theolanda Harewood is Assistant Principal. There is a possibility that Franklin School will become a Montessori Magnet School in the 1989-90 school year.
In 1991, it is our hope to celebrate 100 years of Franklins School’s existence.
                                   
By Judith A. O’Ryan