Turning 40 calls for a big celebrationand the 40th anniversary of Bowling Green School in Franklinton was all of that and more. The Pre-K through 12 school recently capped four decades of excellence with several special events, culminating in an alumni tailgate party.

In the week leading up to the celebration, students paid tribute to Bowling Green’s past by competing in 1970s and ‘80s dress-up contests. Official festivities began with a recognition program in Buck Hellen Stadium before the BGS vs. Centreville game. BGS Principal Bill Murray welcomed members, alumni and supporters of the school and gave the opening prayer. Angie Helen Beahm, daughter of Buck and Juanita Hellen, sang the national anthem.

Coach Murray then introduced the evening’s emcee, retired Franklinton businessman Richard Knight. Knight’s children graduated from BGS, and he spent several years in the press box announcing BGS football games.

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Knight’s presentation featured a brief history of the school. In early February 1969, Knight said, Franklinton businessman Chester Green and other local parents met to explore the feasibility of forming a new school in Franklinton. In the following months, many private donations and hours of volunteer work brought the idea to fruition. The school’s Articles of Incorporation were certified by the Secretary of State on June 17,1969.

The dilemma of where to house the school – and what to call it – was solved when arrangements were made to use a Green family building that had formerly been a bowling alley. Thus, the name Bowling Green.  Soon after, the Davenport family sold the school 40 acres at a reasonable price so that the school property could expand.

The school opened its doors August 29,1969, with 255 students in grades from first through ninth. A grade was added each year, resulting in the first graduating class in 1973. To enroll a student, parents bought a $500 stock of indebtedness and paid a $100 membership fee.

The first principal, who was honored during the event, was Bobby R. Pierce. Also honored was original board member Nell James. In addition, all past and present BGS teachers, coaches, principals, aides, administrative personnel and other employees were invited to the field and applauded for their service.

Knight then called for all alumni to come forward according to the decade in which they graduated. Current students were asked to stand up and be recognized, as well.

After the football game, alumni and friends of the school gathered in the gymnasium for a Buccaneer tailgate party and stroll down memory lane. An enthusiastic turnout of alums shared happy BGS memories while snacking on a potluck spread. Tables displaying memorabilia from each of the school’s four decades prompted many smiles and anecdotes. Crowd pleasers included vintage lettermen’s jackets and football, cheerleader and Buccanette uniforms.

The Bowling Green School curriculum is college-preparatory, with ACT scores for graduating seniors well above the state average. Every BGS senior participates in the ACT, with 95 percent going on to obtain a higher education degree. BGS students traditionally achieve well in both private and public school literary rally competitions. BGS class sizes are limited to provide for an optimal educational experience, and all elementary and secondary classrooms are equipped with state-of-the-art computers. Visit the school’s Web site at www.bgsbucs.com for more information.