Abbott celebrates 60 years: San Mateo school will host party to commemorate milestone

The first student population had about 200-300 students and as the years have gone by, the school has more than 800 students, Principal Cathy Ennon said. Ennon, who began at the school as a teacher, became Abbott’s second female principal in 2000.

“This is a lifetime commitment,” she said. “The school has become much more inclusive.”

During its six decades of existence, Abbott has had eight principals. The anniversary committee has invited former principals to attend, including Gerald Brock (1963-70), Tom Kono (interim principal 1982-83), William Kramer (1984-90) and Abbott’s first female principal Patricia Stahler (1994-2000).

“It’s a time to pause and reflect on the educational programs and services that have been provided to this community,” Ennon said. “It’s a way of recognizing those who were early on in the formative years and provided educational services to children and families throughout the 60 years, including current staff.”

Pansy Jewett Abbott, Abbott’s namesake from, was a pioneer in local politics. In 1925, she was appointed to the position of county superintendent of schools to finish out the remaining term of Roy Cloud when he left. She ran for the job in the election in 1926 and won, remaining in office until 1951. She began her teaching career at San Mateo’s Homestead School at the age of 18. She went on to teach at Central School. She supplemented her teacher’s salary by working as a reporter for the San Mateo News-Leader. She co-wrote a book on good health for children. She organized the San Mateo County Teachers Association and represented teachers at state conventions. She started the first countywide school for children with cerebral palsy in California. Abbott Middle School serves as a reminder of her years of dedication to education.

San Mateo’s other public middle school, Borel, opened on April 11, 1929, as an elementary school with 150 students and four teachers. The school was named in honor of Antoine Borel, a San Mateo community leader.

The party will include food and desserts from Rudy’s Tacos, Fletch’s Hot Dogs, 37th Ave. Deli, Jamba Juice and Heidi’s Pies. There will also be a DJ, karaoke, games and raffle prizes, along with cheer and music performances. There will be a formal ceremony with local officials such as Cynthia Simms, superintendent of the San Mateo-Foster City Elementary School District, San Mateo’s deputy mayor Maureen Freschet and Marc Hershman, district director for state Sen. Jerry Hill, D-San Mateo, and school board Trustee Ed Coady. The celebration takes place at Abbott, 600 36th Ave. in San Mateo.

angela@smdailyjournal.com

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