Local historian Scott Jay points to a small building that was the original Severna Park Elementary School. A slideshow was prepared to discuss and celebrate the inaugural Margaret Moss Day at SPES. Photos by Atalie Day Brown

By Jane Seiss

In 1914, when Margaret Moss arrived at the one-room Boone School, she was 17 years old and a recent graduate of Annapolis High School. 35 students were enrolled, and her teaching assignment was to be temporary. Remarkably, she stayed for almost 50 years, eventually becoming principal. Her career spanned the evolution of the rural schoolhouse as it became Severna Park Elementary School (SPES).

In commemoration of Moss’ birthday, Jan. 27, SPES celebrated its first Margaret Moss Day. The event kicks off a landmark year. During 2012, the oldest school in Severna Park will mark 160 years since land was deeded to build a school there in 1852, and 75 years since construction of the brick building the school still uses today.

SPES’ long story was little known among current families until a few years ago, when boxes of old photos and newspaper clippings were found in storage. Two PTA members rescued the archives. They investigated and discovered that a one-room schoolhouse existed as early as 1859. School “No. 14,” as it was then known, was run by three local trustees before there was even a state system of education. A PTA history committee was formed and planning to celebrate the 160th and 75th anniversaries began.

The event involved students, staff, parents, and alumni. On Moss Day, and during the week preceding, students learned about school history during guest reader visits that covered the school’s story, and morning announcements that featured historic facts about Severna Park Elementary. To show their appreciation, parent volunteers baked dozens of cookies and packaged them for staff.

Fifth-grade students enjoyed a visit from local historian Scott Jay, an SPES alumni. He presented more than 60 of his historic Severna Park photos and told stories about his time as a student.

He remembered Miss Moss. “She was tough but fair. Unfortunately, I had to visit her almost every day, but I turned out all right,” he laughed. Jay is a lifelong resident of Severna Park. There was no kindergarten in his early days here, and in fifth grade, when the school was overcrowded, he and fellow students attended classes at the Severna Park train station.

“I am so excited that Mr. Jay could be here to share wonderful pictures and memories,” said Principal Lynn Birus. “They bring the past to life and really help us appreciate our heritage.” Students were captivated by Jay’s presentation.

An official citation issued by the Senate of Maryland declaring Jan. 27 Margaret Moss Day at SPES was also presented that day.

SPES plans to continue celebrating its landmark year with an Independence Day float competition, a student essay and poster contest, and a grand assembly for students, staff, alumni, friends, and dignitaries on Oct. 8. The PTA will create a photographic timeline for exhibit at the school and a permanent, accessible archive.

A Facebook page dedicated to the school history and anniversary can be found on the site by searching SPES Anniversary 2012. Alumni and friends are encouraged to email This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it to share photos, stories, or join a contact list.