Garfield School has been around for much of Boise’s history. It is one of the original elementary schools in Boise. There wasn’t a need for other elementary schools until the 1980’s, when population growth in Boise called for such changes. Garfield Elementary originally annexed into the Boise School District in 1910, although it had been around for several years prior, belonging to a separate independent district. The original building was replaced in 1927 just across the street on Boise Avenue by a new one that contained eight classrooms for grades 1-8. In the 1940’s, Boise’s population grew, adding to the necessity for a larger schoolhouse. Thus, an expansion was made, adding 13 more classrooms as well as a gym and a cafeteria. The baby boom generation in the 50’s and 60’s used every inch of space that Garfield had, even creating portable classrooms that were placed on the playground. Since then, Garfield Elementary has stood as a testament to the importance of education as well as remaining one of the oldest historical buildings in Boise. Its unique style and location makes it nearly impossible to miss when headed to campus or downtown. It shows the importance of dedication to education and adds a unique piece of history to the city of Boise.

To learn more about Garfield Elementary, please visit: http://www.boiseschools.org/schools/garfield/