Video: West Oktibbeha Celebrate The End Of An Era

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WEST OKTIBBEHA COUNTY, Miss. (WCBI) – It’s the start of summer and graduation week for hundreds of students across the region, But one local high school today marked not just the end of a school year but the end of an era.

It was a fun field day for the 117 students at West Oktibbeha High School. The community and even some former students turned out. Saturday, 14 seniors will make up its last class. In just a few days, the school will be no more, as Oktibbeha County schools merge with Starkville City Schools. That made for a day of memories.
First, they were the Maben Blue Devils, and then as one of the first integrated schools in the 1970s, it became West Oktibbeha High School.

“We’re just sending them off in a good way,” said high school teacher Margaret Jordan.

Food, games and football are just a few things students enjoyed but the importance of the moment wasn’t lost.

“It’s really emotional because I really made a bond with everybody in the community and everybody has that close-knit bond,” said student Gabriella Moore.

Teachers wanted to make this milestone a memorable one. The day included handing out old jerseys that carried West Oktibbeha’s name or the Timberwolf mascot.

“It’s a memorial, it’s making history. We have great students, so we know they’re going to do great things not only from our graduation but as well as going to Starkville schools. So Starkville schools, get ready,” added Jordan.

It’ll make their memories and the historic moments that much stronger.

“My four years have been amazing. I’ve really been attached to this school because my parents and brothers and sisters have all come to this school, so this school is really home to me,” said student Justin Jones.

Many former alumni also came out for the celebration and to honor the school’s legacy.

“I’ve been working out here on campus for 39 years and I’ve seen a lot of kids come through and I hate to see the establishment leave but I think it’s for the best, I’m hoping it’s for the best,” said alumni and staff member Garry Jones.

And one thing is sure, the school is one that will never be forgotten.