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Many people in our community refer to the building in the Goodwater Community as the “old elementary school.” But, this building did not begin as just an elementary. McLaurin Attendance Center was home to many young people through the years. Before segregation, our schools were divided, McLaurin in the Goodwater Community and Magee School “in town.” Both schools produced outstanding students…not only in sports but in academics. Each “group” loved their school. Integration was difficult for everyone…but probably more for McLaurin than Magee. People “lost” their school. They no longer walked the halls hand in hand with childhood friends. Although the building was occupied by elementary students, the word “McLaurin” was no where in the description.
The love of McLaurin Attendance Center led to the formation of a non-profit group, Magee Consolidated McLaurin Vocational Attendance Center. With the strong support of former students and teachers, the renovation of McLaurin has been a long time dream and goal. Grants have been received. Donations have been given. Labor has been utilized. But as with any project, there is a never ending need. This need has not driven folks away but given them a heart felt desire to make their dream come true. Years of work lie ahead. But, work has not scared any of this group. Ready to tackle the next phase, the Mc-MVAC committee continues to need assistance.
Mayor Dale Berry presented the officers with a check for $10,000 from the Aldermen (Mark Grubbs, Lawana Thompson, Sammy Tebo, Patrick Brown, and Sue Honea.
Donations are needed, not only money but labor and materials. This group works! They are not all talk—they have a dream.
Join their dream and be apart of the dream team.
The Magee Consolidated McLaurin Vocational Attendance Center Historical Society (MC-MVAC) is a nonprofit organization located in Magee, Mississippi.
MC-MVAC has a number of initiatives focused on community engagement, educational programs, youth development and in other areas aimed at bridging generational gaps and distilling pride within the community.
In addition to providing school supplies and offering scholarships, MC-MVAC has hosted a number of other events and activities annually that not only empower the community and creates a foundation of shared knowledge, but also impacts a sense of continuity and belonging for all residents.
MC-MVAC is currently working on restoring the old Magee Elementary School gymnasium and classroom building, which are now Mississippi Landmarks, to be utilized as a museum and to provide various activities, programs, and community resources.
The officers are Earnest Jaynes, President; Patricia Trunnell, Vice President; Anika Floyd, Executive Director; Kim Jackson, Secretary; Luvenia Banks, Treasurer; and Charles Funches, Chaplain.
Picture: .Ernest Jaynes, Clara Jaynes, Charles Funchess, Marshall Holloway, Patricia Trunnell, Mary Keller, Jennifer Rankin, Kim Jackson, Aldermen Sue Honea and Patrick Brown and Mayor Dale Berry
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