School District of Manatee County

McNeal Elementary is celebrating their 20^th anniversary this year!

The school recently hosted a birthday bash after school, which was well attended by families and members of the school community.

(L-to-R): Cheryl McGrew, Ronna Paris and current Assistant Principal Ashley Terry.

Two former principals were there... Ronna (Moore) Paris (2003-2009) and Cheryl McGrew (2015-2022).

Families and students loved the festivities, from face painting and food trucks to music and a mascot.

Gilbert the Wildcat was the star of the show.

“Everything that the school does is top notch – they are family,” said PTO Vice President, Jessica McNeal Chmielarski. “It feels like a second home for everyone.”

She has a special connection to the school, as do her children who are attending it.

Chmielarski is the granddaughter of the school's namesake, Gilbert W. McNeal.

The late educator served on the Manatee County School Board from 1978 to 1994, and advocated bringing technology into the school district’s classrooms.

A WWII veteran, he was also instrumental in designing innovative programs while serving as the registrar/dean of admissions at (former) Manatee Junior College.

Gilbert W. McNeal passed away in 2004, but his legacy lives on in the 5,626 children, so far, who have walked the school hallways.

Three original teachers and staff remain since McNeal Elementary opened its doors, including: Coach Gregory Lloyd (PE), Andrea Berninger (2^nd grade) and LaRue Ashman (EDEP Site Manager).

In addition to amazing speeches, fun games and camaraderie, the school raised enough funds at the event to purchase new PE equipment, student planners and safety patrol supplies.

Congratulations to McNeal Elementary for inspiring one student at a time for 20 years!

“Education is a most exciting and changing endeavor – and will always be the most important factor in any community operation.”

Gilbert W. McNeal