On Friday, August 23, the community came together to celebrate the grand opening of the newly constructed Maurice Pritchett Sr. Academy, a tribute to the late Maurice Pritchett Sr., who dedicated an impressive 30 years to shaping the lives of students as principal at the Bancroft School. The joyous occasion was marked by a festive ribbon-cutting ceremony followed by a lively block party that drew hundreds, if not a thousand participants, from the Wilmington community.
Interim superintendent Dr. Andrzejewski expressed enthusiasm for the school's opening, stating: “During my time as a colleague of Mr. Pritchett, I was continually inspired by his unwavering commitment to our students. He didn’t just talk about the kids; he championed their success every single day. Naming this new facility after him is a fitting tribute to his incredible legacy in our community. I urge all of you to rally behind our young people, our dedicated staff, and our visionary leaders, because this is more than just a new building—it’s a foundation for our students' future. Maurice Pritchett was, and will always be known as, a true champion for children.”
Deputy Superintendent Dr. Deirdra Joyner, who will lead the new school until the principal search is completed, echoed those sentiments: "In just a couple of weeks, I have the distinct honor of welcoming students to the Maurice Pritchett Sr. Academy. Having grown up in this area and with my father attending Bancroft in the 1950s, this moment holds a special significance for me. Witnessing the completion of this incredible building fills me with both pride and excitement.
The Maurice Pritchett Sr. Academy is designed with modern concepts that will significantly enhance our students' learning experience. With its open learning areas and flexible auditorium, we are providing students and our community with an environment that fosters collaboration and creativity. Every thoughtful feature of this school has been meticulously planned to support our students' success, ensuring that they are well-equipped for the future. This was a community-driven project, and I believe that the impact it will have on our students and the City of Wilmington will be felt for decades to come," said Dr. Joyner.
Community members showed overwhelming support for the new school, sharing their excitement about the resources and programs that will be available to students. The block party was a resounding success, setting a positive tone as the new academic year approaches.
