Akron's Rankin Elementary School is one of three schools being closed at the end of this school year by the Akron Public School district due to budget cuts.

Over the weekend, families, staff and alumni got together to remember the school's history.

Rankin principal Brandi Davis actually went to the school in kindergarten through sixth grades through 1988...the closing is emotional for her in more than one way, but she recognizes reality.

"Unfortunately, we live in a city where the enrollment, not only with the population, but student enrollment is declining," Davis tells AkronNewsNow.com. "And unfortunately, Rankin has to be one of the buildings to close."

3rd grader Justice Taylor, went to Rankin for just two semesters before transferring to Schumacher CLC to be with her younger sister - but Justice's preference is clear.

"I like Rankin better," the 8 year-old Justice tells AkronNewsNow.com, "because the teachers are much nicer (laughs) and the principal is really nice...and she did all the nice things for people at Rankin, and she's really sweet."

Rankin former student Justice Taylor and grandmother by MPWard

Justice's grandmother, Lucille Allen, says her granddaughter's short time at Rankin was very productive.

"Her grades excelled, the teachers were nice, the faculty, everybody was excellent," Allen tells AkronNewsNow.com. "So (today) we're here to see just the background, the background of Rankin."

Allen says Justice will transfer again to Portage Path CLC in the fall, in the Akron district's open enrollment program.

Barrett and Essex elementary schools are also closing as this school year comes to a close.