Norene plans school reunion



By: Jimmy L. Foster, Watertown Gazette editor

The community of Norene has set a new date for its annual school reunion. Previously held in September, the reunion has been moved to Aug. 3, with fellowship beginning at 4 p.m.

Built in 1940, Norene School hosted students from first through tenth grades until 1945, and up to eighth grade until 1946. After 1945, upper classmen attended Shop Springs School. In 1949, a new school was built on the site that currently houses the Norene Community Center. The school closed in 1974 and students were shuffled between Lebanon and Watertown schools.

The original Norene School was a small structure that housed several split classrooms.
"The focus on education was excellent," says reunion host and former Norene School student Lynette Beadle. "In 1965, the Valedictorians from both Lebanon High School and Watertown High School were prior students of Norene School."

The Norene School Reunion, to be held at the Norene Community Center, will feature entertainment by the former Norene school choir and prizes will be available throughout the night. A potluck supper will commence at 5 p.m., immediately following fellowship. Attendees are asked to bring a food or drink item to the potluck supper. Everything else will be provided.

The reunion is open to all former students of Norene School and their families. For further info, contact Lynette Beadle at (615) 286-2168.