The alumni of Eastside School are passionate about the memories and times spent at the school.
So passionate that they created and chartered the Eastside School Preservation Alumni Association in October of 2020.
ESPAA has been working with the Marlboro County Board of Education to make the former school an active and vibrant part of the community as it was in the past.
Marshall Weaver, attorney for the Association, presented a MOA during Monday night’s Board meeting. In presenting this document, he stated,
“The mission of the parties adhering to this MOA is to preserve and promote the history and cultural significance of the ‘Eastside School Campus,’ including the treasured benefits that have accrued to, as well as the vast societal contributions that have been derived from, the tens of thousands of alumni educated within its walls.”
He added his clients were very passionate about this project. “They actually attended this school,” Weaver said. “They understand the historical significance of this school.”
Board members received information about the ESPAA’s plan to revitalize the property. They did not make a decision at the meeting.
Board Chairman Larry McNeil said the board received the information earlier that evening and didn’t have a chance to discuss it or to talk with their attorney. Attorneys for the district and ESPAA will get together and go through the information and determine the next steps for the two entities.
Weaver said he looked forward to working with their attorney.
“We will move forward, and we will do so as amicable as possible,” he said.
McNeil said the board wants to move forward.
“We want what is going to be best for this community,” he said. “And we do always want to make sure our heritage and our past is never forgotten. That is important to us.”