• As mentioned in the history of The Academy, our K-3 Campus previously existed as East Memorial Elementary.  The following is the History of the K-3 Campus, and how it was named.

     

    On the cold morning of December 14, 1961, a school bus was hit by a train east of Evans, killing 20 children and injuring 17.

     
    Most of the children were from a small country school called Delta School, located on the eastern edge of Greeley (E. 20th street and Cherry Ave.).  Five families lost two children each, and two of those families had no other children.  Cousins died.  One boy’s life ended on his 10th birthday.  Brothers and sisters lived, while their siblings perished.

     

    A new school was built nearby and opened in 1963.  East Memorial Elementary School was named in memory of these children.  Inside the school, hangs a brass plaque that carries the names of the children who were lost that day.  Outside, in front of the school, there are 2 trees that are dedicated in their honor.  One was planted on the 25th anniversary of this tragedy; the other on the 50th anniversary.

     

    In 2007, a monument was dedicated at the scene of the bus/train accident.   This monument is located near Weld County Roads 52 and 43 east of Evans.
Bus Crash
Bus Accident Victims
Bus Memorial