When you think about the elementary school you attended what comes to mind? Do you recall the unique qualities that made your teachers memorable or special, their names? Was it their smile, the sound of their voice, or how they made you feel? Most people will also remember the building: its look, the colors, the smells, and the sounds.

A large portion of our formative years was most likely spent in an elementary school. From age 5 to 12 it was our second home. This place usually made us feel safe and cared for. We made our first best friend there and lost that best friend just to make another one. How many of us remember a first crush on the elementary school playground?

The lessons we learned in the classroom and on the playground went far beyond academics and gave us our foundation for life. We were taught to play nice, work hard, apply ourselves to whatever task was in front of us, and to think.

It wasn't just a building for most students it was their everyday sanctuary. It might have been the only place they got a hug, a good meal or an encouraging word.

As with anything or anyone that goes away in our lives, it can cause a sense of sadness especially if it disappears without knowing. You see there is an elementary school in Coeur d'Alene, Idaho, going away very soon. We want your help in finding people who experienced Winton so they can have an opportunity to say their goodbyes and be a part of the new school building that will replace the iconic old red brick schoolhouse on LaCrosse Avenue.

On Sept. 8, 1925, Winton Elementary opened its doors. This June, Winton will be demolished and a brand-new elementary building will emerge and open its doors to welcome children in the fall of 2015, exactly 90 years to the day our original Winton was built.

We want to give all of the Winton alums, teachers, principals, parents and community members a chance to roam the halls one last time and share their memories with generations to come.

So if you have a connection to Winton Elementary please circle May 17 your calendar for an "All Years (1925-2014) Class Reunion." On Saturday, May 17, from 9 a.m. to noon we will open the doors for that last chance to visualize those memories.

Everyone will be asked to write a memory, send a picture or an old report card to be added to a time capsule that will live in the new building. Every so many years Winton students will open the capsule and read about the history of their school and save their own memories as they move to middle school.

If you are unable to attend we would still like to include your memories.

Our first and foremost goal of this reunion is the memories, however our PTA will also be launching the first Winton Booster Club. With a donation of any amount of $5 or more you can become a part of our booster club and help with any needs that arise for the new Winton.

We are looking forward to hearing from many people.

You may send your memory, and/or donation for the Booster Club, to Winton Elementary, 920 LaCrosse Ave., Coeur d'Alene, ID 83814. If you put it to my attention it will be taken care of promptly. Please include a return address.

Nancy Mueller is a PE/Music Specialist at Winton Elementary School.