FARGO — The first day of school at Horace Mann Elementary in Fargo saw the customary high fives, big hugs and occasional tears.

But the start of the 2025-26 academic year at Fargo Public Schools on Wednesday, Aug. 27, had a different feel for these staff and students.

It was the last first day for Horace Mann, a 110-year-old building that will be demolished next summer to make way for a new elementary school in its place.

Leandra Ostrom, in her ninth year as principal of Horace Mann Roosevelt, said while the first day is always exciting, there was a “different energy” this time around.

“For those who have been here a while, their hearts are a little heavier. They’re still anticipating it. It's still joyful, but there's a little edge to the joy,” Ostrom said.

Missy Tedford has been the

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