By allowing ads to appear on this site, you support the local businesses who, in turn, support great journalism.
Cardozo Middle School sees demolition work
Cardozo 117
By the end of last week, the iconic facade of Cardozo Middle School had been reduced to piles of rubble while the ‘de-construction’ crews were busy scooping up and hauling off. The 1940s-era wing that included the main office and two sixth grade classrooms was demolished and will be replaced with a much more secure entrance to the school, according to officials. Ric McGinnis/The News

Yet another iconic Riverbank structure fell to demolition last week, as workmen tore down and hauled away a portion of the front of Cardozo Middle School.

The section of the campus involved included the two sixth grade classrooms as well as the main office area.

According to school officials, the sixth grade classes have been moved to portable buildings on the back, Atchison Street side of the campus, while the main office has been moved to the Fifth Street side.

Riverbank Unified School District Director of Maintenance, Operations and Transportation Rudy Serrato noted that the facilities will be rebuilt in a similar location, but will be much more secure.

According to Historical Society records, the school site was originally built as the much smaller Riverbank Grammar School. In the 1940s, the school was modified and reopened as the Cardozo School, named in honor of Truman Cardozo, who was principal of the prior Grammar School.

The main feature of the new school was its auditorium. The wing sat along Santa Fe Street and was built as a WPA project. Works Progress Administration projects were created as part of the “Second New Deal,” intended to help the workers of the country deal with the Great Depression.

The new wing was used as a gym, school cafeteria, theatre and center of community events. After the demolition, the cafeteria remains.