AUTRYVILLE — Memories will soon be all that remain of the oldest school in Sampson County, where the class bell is about to ring for the last time.

Clement Elementary School near Autryville is showing its 75 years. The hardwood floors are worn, and the walls are cracked.

Teacher Susan McPhail understands why the school needs to be replaced, but it is still emotional for her.

"It's strange," she said. "I walked down the same halls my grandmother and mother walked down. It's a good feeling and will be sad when the building comes down."

In fact, 70 percent of the school's staff, including the principal, are former students who attended from kindergarten through the 12th grade.

Students and staff will move into a new school being built just behind the old building, which will be demolished next month.

The school is sponsoring a closing ceremony next Friday at 2 p.m. for anyone who wants to come.