Ceremony marks opening of Central Trail Elementary

It's had a bit of wear and tear from use this week, but today Sylvania Schools celebrated the opening of Central Trail Elementary.

The ceremony, with officials, people response for the design and building, and students, included a ribbon cutting. Students also sang songs to commemorate the special occasion.

The school, at 4321 Mitchaw Rd. in Sylvania Township, was put into use on Monday, when students and teachers returned from the winter break. Parents and students were given a look at the school Jan. 5, and the public is invited to an open house from 5 to 7 p.m. Jan. 15.

The elementary building, at 72,557 square feet, has 39 classrooms, plus an art room, music room, and a computer lab. Updated technological features, such as a geothermal HVAC system, terrazzo flooring in corridors, and windows in the gym, also set the structure apart. It cost $15.2 million, funded by a bond issue. The building was designed by Tim Schwartz and incorporated the vision of teachers and the principal, Toni Gerber.

PHOTO GALLERY: Central Singers Choir

Central Trail has 578 students and 52 staff members.

The school replaces Central Elementary, which had been use for more than 80 years. It closed just before Christmas. It is located on Central Avenue and King Road in Sylvania Township.