End of an era at Wingfield as school closes its doors for good
High school closing for good in Jackson
High school closing for good in Jackson
High school closing for good in Jackson
Wednesday was not only the last day of class for this year at Wingfield High School, but it was also the last time class would be held at the school.
Wingfield teachers and students held a balloon release Wednesday to end the school year on a high note and to mark the history of the school, which first opened in 1966.
"I've been here 22 years, so (it's) like taking my home from me," said school counselor Lanessa Jenkins.
Some Wingfield students will likely attend Forest Hill High School next year, while others could go to Jim Hill High School.
"Honestly, I don't know what is next for next year," said Wingfield student Gabbie Davis. "But I will forever rep (Wingfield) because this has been my home."
Hundreds of Jackson Public School District students will be relocating for the next school year as part of an optimization plan. The plan, initially introduced in October, is in response to a significant decline in district enrollment.
Wingfield is the only high school on the list of about a dozen JPS schools that are closing. In 2008, Wingfield had about 1,200 students. According to the most recent numbers, for all four grades, there were just over 600 students.
At least three of the schools on the list will be demolished. The others, along with several JPS-owned properties, could be sold based on recommendations by the Facilities Repurposing Advisory Committee. New Horizon Church International hopes to buy Wingfield High School and relocate the congregation there.
Bishop Ronnie Crudup said church leaders decided last year to sell the current location in the old Sack and Save grocery building on Ellis Avenue, where it’s been for the past 15 years.