Raymond High School Bench Dedication

On Saturday, May 16, 2026 the Raymond High School graduating classes of 1976 and 1977 honored Mr. Booker T. Ducksworth -- a teacher, coach, minister, mentor, and the first black principal of Raymond High School -- with a special bench and plaque outside of the Center for the Performing Arts Building. Mr. Ducksworth taught typing, shorthand, and bookkeeping, but more importantly, by all accounts he instilled strength, motivation, confidence, and self-esteem in his students. He coached Raymond High's first baseball team, guided countless students into successful careers, and left a lasting mark on this community through his leadership and encouragement. Former students remembered his classes as full of laughter and love. This bench stands as a lasting reminder of his faithful service to the Raymond community he loved so well. Raymond thanks you, Mr. Ducksworth!