As Manhattan Beach flourished in the 1950s, the city's school district purchased land in the southeast portion of Manhattan Beach to build a new elementary school. Construction began in July 1954, and the school, which opened in August 1955, was initially known as Curtis St. School and headed by principal Ed Greenblat. Over the years, Pennekamp Elementary has continued to grow. Today, Aurelia Pennekamp Elementary School is a thriving community of students, parents, teachers and administrators. On November 16, 1955, Curtis St. School was renamed Aurelia Pennekamp Elementary School. Aurelia Pennekamp served as nurse for the health departments of Manhattan Beach and Palos Verdes school districts for more than 40 years. The Aurelia Pennekamp Elementary School has now been open for more than 50 years. Home of the Pennekamp Dragons, the school is dedicated to helping students achieve and develop responsibility and respect for others. Visit the school's Web site to find up-to-date information about school events, policies and PTA activities.