District plays name game

Local educators are mulling a list of possible names for a new elementary school.

By: Nick D’Amore
   A list of possible names for a new elementary school is being mulled over by local educators.
   Gary Abbamont, currently principal of Constable School, has been working on coming up with possible names for the new school for the past year. However, he would not yet release a full list of the names.
   The new elementary school is being built on Deans Rhode Hall Road and Route 130 and is slated to open next September.
   "I put together a series of possible names that lend themselves to a strong name for an elementary school," he said.
   Mr. Abbamont will be principal of the new school once it opens.
   The Board of Education placed one of the names, Deans Station School, on its agenda last Monday for a vote, but the vote was tabled so members could review other possible names.
   "The board rightly tabled the vote to seek out the best choice," he said.
   Mr. Abbamont has been doing research into that particular area of Deans where the school will be located.
   "In the 1874, there had been an actual train station there, where the current Amtrak line runs," he said. "I’ve tried to track down further information, but it has been difficult to get."
   Mr. Abbamont said Deans has railroad history, as well as a history of grain mills.
   "It’s interesting to look back," he said. He has looked at municipal maps and has researched the area on the Internet.
   One concern the board had regarding the Deans Station name was possible confusion with the existing Deans School. Mr. Abbamont said he understood the concern.
   "Honestly, I want the school to have its own identity and have a fresh perspective," he said. "Deans is part of the new school campus."
   "All the names on the list are strong names that honor the Deans community. Any of them would be good for the school," he said.