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James Kenan High School has a new reason to show pride: a 719-pound bronze tiger has been erected near the flagpole in front of the school. The tiger and its concrete base come after years of campaigning and fundraising from the current PTO and Principal Michael Holton.
“When I first came to James Kenan, I wanted something that would give the school more visual character and improve curb appeal, but it had to be something that spoke to the school spirit of the people inside the building,” Holton said.
“James Kenan High School previously had a tiger displayed on its sign; however, that original piece deteriorated over time due to weather exposure. Our goal was to replace it with a more durable and long-lasting structure,” said Bridgett Jones, PTO president.
Jones said she officially committed to this vision when her daughter, Ava Jones, started high school four years ago, and they have been “working diligently toward it ever since.”
A small bronze tiger seemed more practical at first, but taking a multi-year approach changed that goal.
“We realized that by approaching this as a multi-year project, we could create something with a much stronger presence and lasting impact,” Jones said.
Over the past four years, the PTO raised enough funds for the down payment, and they continue to secure the remaining balance with the help of the athletic boosters.
“From the beginning, this project was intended to be a shared effort, giving the community a sense of ownership. While early interest was modest, enthusiasm grew significantly once the tiger arrived on campus,” Jones said.
The larger tiger was sculpted in bronze from Big Bronze Delaware and was crate shipped to the school in November. A smaller bronze tiger was installed near the home goal on Bill Taylor Field in the fall. The alumni Class of 1975 chose to honor its 50th anniversary by donating $2,200 toward a brick base of that tiger.
On March 24, the Class of 1979 came to present a check for $3,100 to the PTO for the large tiger. Out of 179 graduates, 45 donated to the cause — many of whom were present from out of state for the check presentation. The alumni stood with pride taking pictures around the new statue to encourage other classes to get involved and contribute. Class organizer Doug West used pictures of the event to challenge other classes on social media.
“The Class of ‘79 has set the standard for donations to the brass tiger and JK PTO,” West wrote. He challenged other classes to “try to be more generous” and try to beat their number of class participants. “To date, the Class of ‘79 has raised the highest amount at $3,200, followed closely by the Class of 1977 with $2,445,” Jones said.
Being a tiger means a lot to James Kenan alumni. “We had 179 students in the class of 1979. At our last reunion, we realized just how many we have lost (34) and somehow knowing and realizing that has brought us even closer. Once a Tiger, Always a Tiger” Class of 1979 alumnus Susan Frederick said.
“James Kenan was our home away from home for four years. Friendships, teachers, and memories were made inside those walls and will be cherished for a lifetime,” fellow alumna Suzette Burke said.
Numerous individuals, local businesses, and graduating classes have contributed generously to the tiger beautification project. “I chose to donate to support the JK PTO and to represent the class of 79’. It’s a win-win donation to help support both in a great way. Our plaque represents ALL of us–the ones that helped, those that couldn’t at this time, and those that are no longer with us. Our legacy will carry on for years to come,” Burke said.
Leaving a legacy to future tigers and the larger community is why so many have donated to the project, and the project is not done yet. Names of donors still need to be installed on the pedestals, lights, and additional bronze plaques have yet to be added.
Plans for the project also include a plant bed around the large tiger and a concrete walkway from the parking lot that will circle the statue. The total cost of this project is expected to be around $40,000. The PTO will continue accepting donations through May 1.
