A significant event took place on August 30, 2023, as over 1,500 attendees gathered for the Inaugural Alumni Picnic of Schools in West Feliciana Parish. This reunion brought together graduates from more than 60 years across three historic high schools: John S. Dawson High School, St. Francisville High School, and West Feliciana High School. Attendees from different school systems and backgrounds celebrated their shared history and the bonds formed over decades.
The picnic, held at the West Feliciana Sports Park, featured tents, tables, and food trucks, creating a festive atmosphere reminiscent of a community celebration. Amanda Moorer, who organized the event alongside representatives from various graduating classes, expressed her excitement about the turnout. “This incredible event commemorates the ties that bind our community and honors the legacy of our alumni, with roots stretching back over six decades,” she stated.
Honoring History and Legacy
The gathering served as an opportunity to honor the past. The oldest attendee, from the Dawson Class of 1956, highlighted the event’s significance. Marie Washington, who attended the picnic in memory of her late husband, Frank Washington, a member of the Dawson High Class of 1964, emphasized the importance of preserving these memories. John S. Dawson High School was notable for being the first high school for African American students in the area, named after John Sterling Dawson, an educator who dedicated 58 years to teaching in the community.
Younger alumni also took part in the tribute, honoring their fallen classmates with photographs and memorial shirts. Jason Ernest, a member of the West Feliciana High School Class of 2001, paid homage to Percy Baytop, affectionately known as the “Fresh Prince of West Fel.” Baytop tragically lost his life in a shooting in New Orleans on New Year’s Eve.
Moorer, who began her teaching career in West Feliciana before relocating to Alabama, coordinated the event despite a short preparation time of less than six months. Communication among class representatives took place through group messaging and social media platforms, showcasing the community’s commitment to coming together.
Community Strength and Unity
The overwhelming attendance at the reunion left Moorer feeling elated. “We are thrilled with the response to this momentous occasion, highlighting the strength and unity of our community,” she remarked. The picnic exemplified the shared history and resilience among graduates, bridging generations and fostering connections that have persisted despite the changing landscape of education and society.
As alumni reflected on their experiences and honored their roots, the event signified more than just a gathering; it represented a collective memory and a celebration of resilience within West Feliciana Parish.
