This invitation was sent out to hundreds of friends, neighbors and alumni to mark the start of the school's rejuvenation.

Longtime Kennedy teacher Inez Palmer was one of many former faculty and students who helped celebrate the school's reopening in October 1997. Here, Mrs. Palmer stands in front of the not-quite-yet completed room named in her honor.

Mike and Brian McMenamin say a few words and give a toast to a new beginning for Kennedy School.

Kennedy School's last PTA President, Sharon Kolb, reprises her role by ringing in the new era, with the school's original bell, at precisely 7 a.m. on opening day, October 22, 1997.

Portland mayor, Vera Katz, tours the school just prior to the start of McMenamins' renovation of the property.