Don’t Forget to Look Up! Discovering the History and Charm of the SPCS Administration Building [WITH PICTURES]
In August 2023, the Springfield Public Schools (SPCS) Administration Building opened its doors at 765 Main Street in Springfield, Nebraska, marking the start of a vibrant new era for the district. This week, as a small group of community members toured the facility, the carefully preserved connections to the district’s past came to life once again.
One of the building’s most captivating features is the repurposed wood salvaged from the old Springfield Elementary School. This high-quality material, rich with history, has been masterfully refurbished to add warmth and character throughout the space.
“There were so many nails in the wood that when they took it down, it came down in one big piece!” Superintendent Ryan Saunders, Ed.D., recalled with a smile. “I felt bad for the gentleman who had to remove all those nails, but he did an extraordinary job.”
The 3 inch thick planks were expertly divided into three new ¾ inch boards, then in turn used to be highlighted throughout multiple areas of the Administration Building. This thoughtful reuse not only preserves a tangible piece of the district’s heritage but also creates a striking visual feature in the modernized space.
“There is so much history in that wood,” Dr. Saunders reflected. “Think of all the learning that happened under the watchful eye of those boards!”
The Administration Building replaced its previous steel-structured location, which had served the district since 1987 and has since been repurposed as an Athletic Building near Platteview High School. The new site carries its own historical significance, as it once housed Springfield Elementary School before the school relocated in 2022 to a state-of-the-art facility at 940 Main Street, made possible by a community-supported bond initiative.
Another notable relic uncovered during renovations is a metal plaque from 1964, commemorating the original opening of Springfield School. The plaque, which features the names of Superintendent Harold Luttman, the Board of Education, and the building contractors, now hangs proudly in the Board of Education room, serving as a timeless reminder of the district’s enduring legacy.
Visitors are warmly encouraged to stop by and explore the SPCS Administration Building. Don’t forget to look around—you’ll find the beautifully refurbished wood ceilings and other historical touches that seamlessly blend the district’s storied past with its bright future.
