John Hersey High School marks 50 years of education

John Hersey High School is celebrating its 50th anniversary this school year with several events, the first of which is occurring at the Friday, Oct. 5, homecoming celebration.

The events, which will continue through the school year, are meant to engage alumni and highlight the school's rich history of fine and performing arts, athletics and school spirit.

On Friday, Oct. 5, the school is inviting alumni and former staff to the homecoming game, which kicks off at 6:45 p.m. with a pregame parade. The football game will be at 7:30 p.m. against Elk Grove High School and features halftime performances by the Marching Huskies, Poms and Orchesis, and a postgame fireworks show.

In addition, the school's East Gym will be open and filled with displays of Hersey memorabilia from the past 50 years.

The following day, Saturday, Oct. 6, the school will hold an Open House from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. Community members, alumni and former staff are invited to tour the building and reconnect with friends from the past.

Memorabilia displays will be available for viewing in the East Gym, and the school will serve hot dogs and other refreshments in the cafeteria.

John Hersey High School opened in 1968 and is named for the journalist and Pulitzer Prize-winning author. In his dedication address to the school on Nov. 10, 1968, Hersey said, "I cannot think of any honor in all my fortunate life - and I include the Pulitzer Prize and honorary degrees and election to the American Academy of Arts and Letters - that has had more meaning for me than this one."'

The school is often recognized for its giving nature, a legacy that goes back to the school's namesake. John Hersey gave all the money he made from the first reprint of his book, "Hiroshima," to the Red Cross.

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