Hundreds go South to Hail Progress of Youngstown Schools
Source: https://www.vindy.com/
Hundreds of South High School alumni and other city residents attended a three-hour outdoor gathering that resembled a large class reunion. The event, organized by Jon Howell, aimed to celebrate and “reconstruct” the history of Youngstown City Schools from 1950 to 2007, highlighting the sports rivalries among eight high school teams. Howell emphasized that the gathering was not only about reminiscing but also addressing an educational void by showcasing the link between education and success, and encouraging greater involvement from parents and stakeholders.
At the Saturday celebration, Youngstown Jubilee Urban Development, which purchased the former South High School for $500,000, announced plans to convert it into a career, technical, and workforce development facility. The school, which opened in 1911 and closed in 1993, is being restored to enhance educational opportunities. Jon Howell, a 1980 South High grad, emphasized the importance of education as a means to escape poverty and improve success. Principals Maureen Donofrio and Monica Jones of Rayen Early College Middle School and High School expressed a shared commitment among Youngstown school leaders to showcase their achievements and positively impact the community.
The district has earned high ratings, including a five-star rating for Rayen Early College High School and 4.5-star ratings for Rayen Early College Middle School, Choffin Career & Technical Center, and a math program. Monica Jones highlighted the district’s progress and community unity, noting the expanded Y-STAR scholarship program. This initiative, in partnership with the Youngstown Foundation and Youngstown State University, offers four-year scholarships covering tuition, room, and board for eligible students. The Saturday event featured tours of the building’s first floor and nostalgic moments, such as Gwenn Clark bringing her 1969-1971 yearbooks.
Gwenn Clark, who returned to Youngstown from Chicago after retiring from Youngstown State University, fondly remembered her art teacher, James Kane, who supported her educational journey and helped her secure scholarships and a job. She also recalled her social studies and English teacher, Edna Pettigrew, who challenged her perspectives. Clark was active in numerous extracurriculars, including the Acapella Choir and National Honor Society, and held leadership roles in various clubs.
During the tour of the historic school, Johnson-Williams and Turner-Williams revisited their former teacher Ralph Goldstein’s classroom and reflected on their own extensive involvement in school organizations. Howell thanked sponsors for supporting the event.
Read More: https://ohio.childreninfobank.com/safebank/hundreds-go-south-to-hail-progress-of-youngstown-schools/
Image Source:https://www.vindy.com/
