Open House Celebrates 50 Years of Batesville Middle School

The event happens May 1.

BMS staff and students gathered recently for a photo to commemorate 50 years of the school. Photo provided.

(Batesville, Ind.) - Batesville Middle School (BMS) will celebrate the conclusion of its 50th academic year with a community open house on Friday, May 1, 2026, from 4 to 5 p.m. Built on the former site of Batesville High School and completed shortly before the start of the 1975-76 school year, the structure on Mulberry Street has served thousands of students, educators, and families over the course of the school’s history. Guests are invited to enjoy guided tours, which will connect memories of the past with descriptions of the current learning spaces.

“We’re excited to welcome the community back into our building to celebrate 50 years of Bulldog pride,” said Austin Glaub, BMS Assistant Principal, who has been spearheading the organization of the event. “This event is about honoring our history while showcasing the incredible learning happening here today.”

Besides Glaub, Principal Dave Strouse, as well as Lisa Barnett, Michelle Back, Sandi Beier, Timmi Jones, Lori Sarringhaus, Sheryl McCreary, Tara Mills, and Amy Weigel from BMS have committed their time to planning the open house.

"For the past 50 years, this building has been the home to generations of Bulldogs,” added Dave Strouse, BMS principal. “During my 13 years as principal, I have come to understand that a school's strength is not defined by the number of years a building exists but by the impact it makes. Our teachers, staff, parents, and community show up every day to make a difference in our students’ lives. That shared commitment is what makes this Bulldog family so special.”

A special reception for former BMS staff will be held in the school’s Bulldog Room during the open house, offering an opportunity to reconnect and share memories.

Immediately after the open house, BMS will present its annual Spring Arts Festival at 5 p.m., featuring student musical performances and visual art displays. Guests for both parts of the event are asked to enter through either Door A (off Mulberry Street) or Door L (off the circle drive from Columbus Avenue).

BMS alumni and all community members are encouraged to attend and celebrate this milestone in Batesville’s educational history.