Jackson Memorial High School Celebrates its 50th Anniversary Today

A massive celebration is taking place today at Jackson Memorial High School for its 50th Anniversary. School Principal Kevin DiEugenio said they've been planning festivities for six months and have invited all its alumni and staff back.

"We expect lots and lots of people. We have people coming from as far away as California to this event and we're celebrating old school. I'm calling it the largest class reunion in Ocean County this year."

DiEugenio said they'll have speakers from each decade sharing their stories on a big stage donated by the township. Tours, a barbecue, trivia games, a yearbook display and Jaguar paraphernalia sale all run from 4 to 7 pm but the party continues into the night with a Homecoming football game against Toms River High School North. Where the popular Jaguar Marching Band will be featured.

DiEugenio said Jackson Memorial is known for the marching band and its athletes but they're also gaining recognition for its academic transformation and high test scores that he's hoping to carry into the future.

"We've become a force academically and I think our goal is to continue with that. We started with a STEM program. That's Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics this year for the entering freshman. We're going to have a Personal Finance Academy next year and increase our A.P. course offerings," he said.

Jackson Memorial High School begin in April of 1964 for 800 Juniors and Seniors.

A Schedule of Some of the Many Activities:

• A welcome beginning at 4 p.m. from current students and staff.
• The Senior Green will have tables set up selling Jag wear and other items.
• In the Memorial Cafeteria, food will be available, along with a yearbook area showing the school through the decades.
• Photo boards will be set up in the cafeteria, tours of the school will be conducted by our student council and Junior Class.
• Bernie Reider will speak about the opening the Jackson Junior-Senior High School in 1964 and share stories of the school's development.
• Various representatives from each decade there to discuss what made "their'' time at JMHS special.
• A presentation on the history of the Jaguar mascot and a contest to guess what the potential mascots could have been.
• An alumni trivia game on the stage in the auditorium. Representatives from each decade will play "Jaguar Trivia''

Get the details at www.jacksonsd.org