Norwood Avenue Elementary School recently took a meaningful step back in time with the unveiling of a time capsule created 25 years ago by Teacher Erica Gunning’s second-grade class.

Students, staff and former students gathered to open the capsule, which had been carefully buried in 2000 and preserved a collection of heartfelt items from a previous generation of Norwood students. Letters, drawings, crafts and treasured mementos offered a glimpse into the thoughts, creativity and hopes of students from a quarter of a century ago.

One former student from Ms. Gunning’s 2000 class is now a teacher at Norwood Elementary School and was able to offer a unique full-circle perspective bridging the school’s past and present together. Ms. Gunning also reunited with several additional former students from that class, now in their early 30s, who returned to take part in the celebration.

“The opening of this time capsule was a powerful reminder of the lasting connections formed here at Comsewogue,” said Norwood Avenue Elementary School Principal Nichole Makarius. “Seeing former students return as educators and community members truly highlights the impact the Norwood family has across generations. It was a meaningful experience for our current students to witness how their school history continues to shape the future.”

The unveiling served as a celebration of memories and milestones, as current students and staff reflected on the shared history preserved within the capsule. The event highlighted the continuity of learning, community, and tradition that defines Norwood Elementary School.