By Venus Highsmith – Alumni and friends of William M. Raines High School united to commemorate the schools 60th year anniversary (January 25, 1965), a landmark achievement that landed on the actual Founder’s Day, January 25, 2025. Under the leadership of Principal Vincent Hall, proud alumnus of the Raines Class of 1990, the committee orchestrated an unforgettable gala.
Held at the South Bank Hotel, the event featured inspiring remarks, joyful dancing, and heartfelt tributes, including a special recognition of Coach Doug White, a dedicated educator who has taught math at Raines for an impressive 49 years. The celebration culminated in a rousing rendition of the Alma Mater song, ‘Dear William Raines,‘ leaving all in attendance filled with hope and enthusiasm for the school’s bright future. In this pivotal 60th Anniversary Year, Mr. Hall was named Duval County’s Principal of the Year for the first time, the school earning a B grade, achieving a 98% graduation rate, a flawless 13-0 regular football season, a runner-up finish in the District 3A Football Championship, and a Superior rating in band competition. Congratulations Raines!
https://www.duvalschools.org/o/wmhs
