Demolishing of the building marks the reminiscing of Eastside High School's past in Camden's community.
Eastside High School Bids Farewell and Embraces the Future
After nearly a century of serving the community of Camden, New Jersey, Eastside High School is undergoing a significant transformation. The decision to demolish and rebuild the school was made due to the age and condition of the existing building, with the new facility set to open in 2029.
Originally opened in 1930 as Woodrow Wilson High School, the school has been a cornerstone of the community for decades. It was the only freestanding high school in its district, and its building held many memories for alums, community members, and officials. However, the passage of time and the demands of modern education have made it more cost-effective to rebuild rather than repair the school.
The new Eastside High School will boast advanced technology for students, reflecting the evolving needs of education in the 21st century. During the demolition process, a time capsule was discovered within the building, containing a nickel and a copy of The Morning Post from March 21, 1929. This discovery offers a glimpse into the school's rich history and the hopes and dreams of those who built it.
The school was named after Woodrow Wilson, the 28th U.S. president and former New Jersey governor. In June 2020, the school's name was changed because of Wilson's legacy as a segregationist. The current students are currently attending class at the former Cramer School while the new facility is being constructed.
Alumni and community members have expressed mixed feelings about the demolition. Phil Rowan, a member of the class of 1971, expressed his sadness about the building's demolition, while Al Mailahn, another alum, stated that it was the right decision to invest in a modern replacement. Rowan and Mailahn, along with other alums, recalled their experiences as students, such as running around the boiler rooms and hopping fences.
Eastside High School is part of the Camden High School Campus, which houses four high schools. The demolition of the old building marks the beginning of a new chapter for Eastside High School, as it looks towards the future with hope and anticipation.
Education and self-development will be prioritized in the new Eastside High School, as the state-of-the-art facility will be equipped with advanced technology catering to the evolving needs of 21st-century learners. Alumni and community members, while expressing mixed feelings about the demolition, recognize the importance of investing in a modern education infrastructure for the future generations.
