By Stephen Hemelt
L’Observateur

LUTCHER — Cypress Grove School has not graduated a class since 1969, but the school’s roots still run deep in St. James Parish.

Now, those ties are going to be visible to those who drive through Lutcher.

Cypress Grove School alumni received permission this week from the St. James Parish School Board to place a marker on the site of the former high school — present day Lutcher Elementary School.

Alumni represented at Tuesday’s school board meeting shared that Cypress Grove School served black students in St. James Parish from 1947 until 1969, graduating 19 classes during that time.

Alumni organizer Dianne Brathwaite said when the school closed following integration, nearly all of the school’s history was lost, leaving former students and present day supporters no visible sign of Cypress Grove.

The alumni pledged, at an expense they will take on, to establish a marker at Lutcher Elementary that will be in “good taste” and display the school colors of green and white, while serving as a “permanent reminder to the community of their history.”

Those interested in learning more about the project or who wish to donate to the cause can call Brathwaite at 225-562-3677 or Truman Jacques at 225-562-7898.

This week’s news enhances a fun night already planned, as Cypress Grove School Reunion II is planned from 6 p.m. to midnight Friday at the St. James Boat Club on Airline Highway.

The alumni’s first major reunion took place ten years ago and drew former students from 74 cities and 18 states.

Brathwaite said former students left the event ten years with a desire to see a permanent marker established in St. James Parish.

The St. James Parish Council voted Wednesday evening to acknowledge Nov. 28, 2014, in honor of Cypress Grove and its impact in the community.