The beginning of a new decade brought
a new high school building. The old high school building was demolished
and a new brick building constructed at a cost of $348,950.00.
The new building was dedicated on May 26, 1950. The passage of
a levy allowed for several remodeling projects in other buildings
and new fluorescent lighting installed. The north end of the old
gym was remodeled by removing the stairway and balcony increasing
the length of the gym by four feet. With the increased student
population and again a threat of annexation to the Tacoma School
District, the schools pushed for incorporating the city of Fife.
This would mean another boost in the tax base for the school district.In the early 50's a student council meeting considered the problem of litter on the grounds and in the hallways. The suggestion to purchase more trash containers gained a unanimous vote. It is nice to know that some problems cross the generations.
In 1950 it cost $19.04 to light the football field for games. It cost $130.00 to pay the officials for the season. In 1954 the Trumpet became the name of the now monthly school newspaper. The drill team, the Laodamians, marched through the football and basketball seasons. "The girls of Fife High are sewing sequins on their hats and gloves for the Christmas holiday look", reported the fashion editor. The Fife School District #88 became the Fife School District #417 in 1955.
In 1956 a new gymnasium was built on the
site of the old structure. The building cost $291,405.00. The
dedication ceremonies for the Fife Physical Education Building
were held on November 17th, 1957 or October 20, 1957 (I found
varying dates the school records). The facility would be the home
of the new tumbling team. The team performed at assemblies and
football games. A newly purchased trampoline was a welcome addition
to the mats, springboard, and parallel bars.In 1958 burglars broke into the high school through an open window in the library. They jimmied the safes in the principal's and superintendent's offices, making off with an undisclosed amount of cash.
Marvin P. Belknap was the Principal during all this construction. Mr. Belknap served the school district for 25 years. (To read more about Mr. Belknap, click here.)
A bond was passed to build a new cafeteria in 1959. The facility was much needed as high school students had taken to eating their cars, because of lack of space in the present cafeteria. This project would not be completed for another two years. (Continue)