By Alicia Couch Payne
BUFORD — The Buford City Schools and the City of Buford were proud to open the new $85 million Buford High School to the public during a two-day unveiling. Anyone and everyone showed up to see what all of the fuss has been about. The halls were filled with young and old each exclaiming how amazing the new school campus is. This has been over a four-year labor of love and it officially opened with the Ribbon-Cutting Ceremony that took place on July 28.
Local elected officials and other dignitaries were on hand to witness this historic moment. The ceremony kicked off with Dr. Robert Downs, Buford City Schools Superintendent welcoming everyone. Rev. Sondra Jones gave the invocation followed by Bruce Fricks, Buford School Board Member led the attendees in the Pledge of Allegiance. A gorgeous rendition of the national anthem was performed by Joy, Alex, and Hope Fowler.
Dr. Downs recognized Mr. Walt Murray for his outstanding 48 years of service to the children and staff at Buford City Schools. Mr. Murray served as the head custodian of the system. The audience got to their feet to give Mr. Murray a standing ovation. Buford Board of Education Chairman Phillip Beard gave a brief address recognizing those that had worked so hard to make this campus happen. He introduced some of the local officials and dignitaries. City Manager Bryan Kerlin also gave a few remarks about the new building, specifically thanking the Architect Doug Breaux, Charles Black Construction Company, and his staff at City Hall.
Representing the Buford City Schools Board of Education were school board members Pat Pirkle, Beth Lancaster, Bruce Fricks, and Chairman Phillip Beard. Buford Commissioners Chris Burge and Brad Weeks, along with former Commissioner Michael Smith were also on hand to witness this historic moment. Neighboring leaders Suwanee Mayor Jimmy Burnette, Sugar Hill Mayor Steve Edwards, and Rest Haven Mayor Kenneth Waycaster joined the ranks of those celebrating with Buford. County Commissioner Marlene Fosque was the lone representative from Gwinnett County.
State senators Renee Unterman and Butch Miller were in attendance and each spoke about their experiences in Buford. Senator Unterman spoke about the pride that she has representing Buford. She talked about Buford being all about family. The Buford High School Ensemble provided entertainment in between the speakers with the song “The Impossible Dream.” The keynote speaker, Senator Butch Miller was introduced by former Interim Superintendent Joy Davis. Senator Miller is the son of Dr. Miller and Mrs. Davis joked that some in the audience were probably delivered by his father Dr. Miller. Senator Miller spoke about growing up in Buford as the son of Dr. Miller and what it was like to grow up in such a supportive environment such as Buford.
Buford High School Principal Lindsey Allen gave the closing remarks saying just how honored he is to be the first principal of the new BHS and how his staff is up to the challenge of making a lasting legacy. Pastor Avery Head closed out the ceremony with a prayer. The elected officials and other dignitaries then did the ceremonial ribbon cutting with each snipping a piece of the ribbon to take home as a memento.
Guests were invited to stick around for a delicious array of refreshments organized by Denise Simpson and her wonderful group of volunteers.
