See It First: New Documentary Explores the Remarkable Evolution of the Scarsdale Public Schools
/We will premiere our newest documentary, From the First Schoolhouse: A Scarsdale Story, in partnership with the Scarsdale Public Library on Wednesday, December 3rd at 7 PM at the Scarsdale High School auditorium. The film traces how the Scarsdale public school district grew from a one-room schoolhouse to a national model of learning and innovation.
The film transports audiences to a version of the district that is almost unrecognizable - with oil lamps, privies, and bare-bones budgets. As the small farming community grows into a modern suburban village, residents prioritize educating children and building new schools. The schools did not progress by chance, but through civic vision, community commitment, and a lasting respect for public education—principles that remain woven into Scarsdale’s character.
Produced by the Scarsdale Historical Society with documentary filmmaker Lesley Topping, this film features local historians Jordan Copeland, Leslie Chang, and Daniel Glauber, journalist Lori Rothman, former District educators Ruth Friendly and Tony Arenella, and SHS alumnus William Klayer, who share their insights and experiences.
The event will feature an introduction by Drew Patrick, Superintendent of Scarsdale Public Schools. The screening will be followed by a panel discussion with the filmmakers, local historians, and longtime educators who witnessed the district’s transformation firsthand.
“Not every school district warrants its own documentary, but the Scarsdale School District is anything but ordinary,” said Randy Guggenheimer, President of the Scarsdale Historical Society. “The district’s meteoric rise tells a story of vision, determination, and community commitment.”
“We are pleased to co-sponsor this screening, especially in the high school auditorium” stated Elizabeth Bermel, Director of Scarsdale Public Library. “It’s especially moving to show the documentary in the very school that earlier generations worked so hard to build.”
Event Details
Film Premiere: From the First Schoolhouse
Date: December 3, 2025
Time: 7:00 PM
Location: Scarsdale High School Auditorium
Admission: Free and open to the public
RSVP HERE
The premiere marks the first public screening of the film, which will later be made available for schools, civic groups, and streaming through the Historical Society’s digital archive.
About the Scarsdale Historical Society
The Scarsdale Historical Society exists to discover, preserve and disseminate historical information, as well as inspire others to learn about and contribute to the history of Scarsdale and the Central Mid-Westchester Region. The Scarsdale Historical Society accepts grant applications for projects that meet its mission, particularly those that will inspire others to learn about the history of Scarsdale and the surrounding communities. Learn more at www.scarsdalehistoricalsociety.org.
About the Library
The mission of the Scarsdale Public Library is to encourage the joy of reading, the exploration of ideas, and the pursuit of lifelong learning for the children and adults of our community. To learn more about the Library and the latest programs and services available, visit scarsdalelibrary.org.
