Anne Leone, 96, of Austintown stands in the middle of the current sixth-grade class outside of New Castle Elementary in the Shenango Area School District this week as they re-create her photo from 1937.

You can go back.

Anne Leone, 96, has lived on White Beech Lane in Austintown for the past 61 years. She and her husband Phil raised their three sons there, and Anne continues proudly to maintain her home and care for herself — but is also very proud of her New Castle, Pa., roots.

She and family friend of 30 years, Gena Murray, 65, of Austintown, went on a field trip Wednesday back to her grade school, 2501 Old Pittsburgh Road, New Castle, in the Shenango Area School District for an often yearned-for visit. She had a cherished photo of her class in 1937.

Principal Adam Vincent spent 90 minutes taking her through the building, Murray said.

“We found the building, built in 1927, immaculate and beautiful. The children’s artwork was amazing and adorned the hallways. The staff and the students were among the most pleasant I have ever encountered — and as a mom to four and Nonna to seven more — I have visited many school buildings,” Murray said.

“They visited classrooms, the computer lab and the gymnasium. He showed her the original hardwood flooring from the 1927 gym that was framed and displayed when the floor was replaced. He pointed out the oak railing on the steps

that is still the original and I could imagine her little girl hands on that same wood.”

Vincent also took her upstairs by elevator and let her get a bird’s-eye view of the stadium and playground.

One of the best parts of her visit was when Vincent invited the current sixth- grade class outside to recreate her photo from 1937 — with her in it.

“She is really amazing for 96,” Murray said.

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