Bob Windheim and his grandson Matthew both know the first-hand excitement of crossing the threshold of a newly constructed school. What’s unusual about them, however, is they both did so for the same academic institution, Sandy Run Middle School, Dresher. And the timelines for the new settings were 55 years apart. Matteo Iadonisi filed the A+ story for 6abc.

Bob’s introduction to Sandy Run was in 1967 when he was an eighth grader. He was a member of the classes that attended the new Upper Dublin School District entity shortly after its construction was completed.

“I remember getting here and I was so impressed with the facilities, the gym, and it just was a fantastic building at the time,” he recalled.

Over time, however, the structure started to age and its layout no longer accommodated evolving teaching methods.

A total relaunch became the option of choice.

A new school building was constructed on the property while classes continued in the existing facility, now scheduled for demolition.

Among the students entering Sandy Run 2.0 is Matthew Windheim, Bob’s grandson.

“I think it’s exciting that my grandfather opened the first Sandy Run in 1967. He passed it to my dad … and now it’s going to me,” he said.

The new site has two gymnasiums, an enhanced cafeteria, state-of-the-art library, and a STEM lab.

More on this familial connection (and others) at Sandy Run Middle School is at 6abc.