It was a bittersweet last day for students and teachers at Quail Hollow Elementary School. That's because, by the end of the week, the doors will close for two years of renovations.
ESL instructor Rachel Custard says watching this year's fifth-grade students accept their awards during the annual "Moving Up" ceremony was emotional.
"It's just kind of sad to see it all come to an end," Custer said.
The district has plans to gut the entire interior of the school. The renovations will bring the building up to date. But the personal touches that make Quail Hollow so special will have to go.
Custer remembers when the murals on the walls and the quail shaped tiles were added to the school. After all, she's been teaching there for 22 years.
"It's been here forever. Just like me," Custer said, just before giving 18-year-old Chabeli Marrero a hug.
Chabeli came to the school Tuesday to watch her younger sister move up to middle school, just as she did seven years ago.
"It's the exact same way," Chabeli said.
"I'm going to miss my teachers and the students. I'm going to miss everyone," said her younger sister, Charlise.
The construction is set to begin in July, and by the time students return for the 2015-2016 school year, the inside will be completely remodeled.
Shady Hills Elementary School in Spring Hill will also undergo similar renovations. There will be an open house Wednesday evening from 6 p.m. to 7 p.m. for those wishing to take a last look around.