Melaskóli celebrates 80th anniversary
A festive atmosphere filled Melaskóli yesterday as the school community, former students, staff and supporters gathered to celebrate its 80th anniversary. The event marks a milestone for one of Iceland's oldest and most established primary schools, where thousands of children have studied since classes began on Oct. 5, 1946.
At one time, nearly 1,500 students attended the school
In her anniversary speech, Principal Harpa Reynisdóttir looked back on the history of Melaskóli. During its first year, the school had about 850 students and 26 teachers. Enrollment peaked in the mid-1950s, when the school ran triple-session classes for nearly 1,500 students. Today, the school has 552 students and 72 staff members.
A remarkable building adorned with artwork
The principal described Melaskóli as "the most beautiful school in the country." She highlighted the historic building designed by Einar Sveinsson and the artwork by Barbara Árnason and Ásmundur Sveinsson that adorns it. She said the school's history is almost woven into its walls, noting that traces of the past remain visible in many places, including the original flooring of the Skáli hall, where dances were once held.
Despite major societal changes, technological advances and the evolving role of education in recent decades, the principal stressed that the core of good schooling has not changed. Harpa reminded the audience that a school is built not from concrete and walls, but from the people who work and learn there. She thanked staff, students, parents and supporters for their contributions to the school community over the years.
Gifts from former students and supporters
The celebration's special guest was author and former student Þórarinn Eldjárn, who started at Melaskóli 70 years ago. In his address, he shared memories from his youth and reflected on his ties to the school. To mark the anniversary, he presented a generous gift of books: four of his own titles, with eight copies of each—one for every decade of the school's history. Students and staff will put the gift to good use, and it serves as a lovely example of the warm feelings former students hold for the school.
Þórarinn was not the only supporter to bring an anniversary gift. Another former student, Guðni Harðarson, donated 20 paintings that now hang on the school's walls. Inspired by Icelandic folktales, the artwork adds a playful touch to the school environment. Both gifts reflect the strong ties former students maintain with Melaskóli, as well as the enduring pride and affection many feel long after their school years end.
