01-06-2025
Decades of memories come alive at James Ward Elementary School's 150th anniversary celebration
CHICAGO — Rose Marie Ruggiero, who goes by Cookie, and Mary Reusz, now affectionately known as Grandma Mary, go way back.
'I lived right across the alley from her grandmother,' Reusz said. 'Her grandmother had a cherry tree, and I used to go and steal cherries from the tree.'
Along with building humorous memories at home, the ladies, now in their 90s, also shared unforgettable times at James Ward Elementary School.
'The teachers were always so good, and I had a good time here. I didn't go to kindergarten but first grade to eighth,' Ruggiero said.
On Saturday morning, the long-time friends returned to the school, located at the corner of 27th Street and South Shields Avenue, sitting side by side in the auditorium.
Reusz graduated from eighth grade in 1945, and Ruggiero graduated in 1947 but says it doesn't feel like it's been 78 years.
The two were among a large crowd of alumni, current students and educators who came out to celebrate the school's 150th anniversary.
Festivities included going back in time with gems from the past on display and students sharing their talents.
The first section of James Ward opened in 1875, with two additions coming along in 1897 and 1927. The building is the district's oldest continuously used and operated school.
'It's our oldest school but it's a school that celebrates inclusion, celebrates art,' Pedro Martinez, Chicago Public Schools CEO, said. 'It's a community that has changed over time, but it's always been a wonderful community.'
Eric Chen, who graduated from James Ward in 2021, says his elementary school foundation was key to his success as he heads to Princeton University this fall.
'These teachers really put in so much effort, like outside of school hours, to make sure we succeed, so I'm very grateful they're really passionate,' Chen said.
As he transitions from CPS, Martinez says he wants to see students like Chen continue representing what the district can offer.
'The talent that exists here, both in our staff and our students. There is just no shortage of talent so when we support that talent, we make our wonderful city even greater,' Martinez said.
All these years later, Reusz and Ruggiero say they're proud of the next generation of students for putting their old stomping ground on the map.
'These children are so smart. I am proud of them,' Ruggiero said.
'Well, I say take it all in because you have a wonderful opportunity here at Ward School, see look at us,' Reusz said.
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