It won’t be a feeling of melancholy, but rather a celebration of a legacy steeped in tradition.

At least that’s the idea behind the open house set for 5-7 p.m. May 17 at St. Jerome Regional School in Tamaqua.

School Principal Amy Hannis-Miskar said the event is open to all members of the St. Jerome Regional School family.

Hannis-Miskar said that current and past students, community members, staff members, family members and loyal supporters are invited to take one final tour through the building.

“We’re just inviting everyone that’s been a part of the school, or even members of the community who want to help us celebrate,” Hannis-Miskar said.

“We thought it would nice to have this event and have people reminisce and walk through the school one last time.”

Representatives of the Home and School Association, Student Ambassadors, administration and teachers and staff will be on hand to assist those who wish to page through old yearbooks, and in some cases, black-and-white photos from their days in the classroom, as well as share contact information to receive future updates on the school.

St. John XXIII Church will also be open during that time frame for anyone who would like to visit.

Last month, Tamaqua Area School Board agreed to sell the former Rush Elementary school building for $1.2 million to use for the St. Jerome Regional School after it authorized the district to proceed with the agreement of sale for the school to the Roman Catholic Diocese of Allentown.

The diocese plans to move the St. Jerome Regional School from its present location at 250 W. Broad St. to the former Rush Elementary at 50 Meadow Ave. in Hometown over the summer and be ready for the first day of the new school year that begins on Aug. 27.