The Stanley High School community and DeSoto Parish Schools celebrated the grand opening of the new Stanley High School Student Activities Center on Thursday, January 16, 2025. This state-of-the-art facility, made possible through the support of the December 11, 2021, bond proposal, represents a significant milestone in the district’s ongoing commitment to enhancing facilities, athletic fields, and classroom spaces for students and staff.
The event included a ribbon-cutting ceremony at 1:00 PM, followed by a spirited community pep rally and the dedication of the new court at 5:30 PM. The evening culminated in home basketball games featuring the Panthers and Lady Panthers taking on Converse in their inaugural matchups in the new facility.
Superintendent Clay Corley emphasized the importance of community collaboration in making this project a reality, stating, “This project is because of your commitment, and because of the interest and vision of Mr. Coday Johnston, Mr. Brian Anderson, and the administration at Stanley High School for wanting the best facilities for our Panthers.”
Former District 6 Board Member and current Police Jury Member Coday Johnston expressed his pride in the new facility, saying, “A lot of time was spent in the planning and a lot of time was spent in the work of this building. I am super excited for our community. This is ours—it is not mine, it’s not the principal's, it’s not the Superintendent’s. It is ours. This facility will be a model for those to look to in the state of Louisiana.”
The new Student Activity Center features modern amenities designed to support student activities, athletic events, and community gatherings, and to boast Stanley High School in student and community engagement.