Neshoba central unveils restored rocket

In a heartwarming ceremony on Friday night, just before the homecoming game, Neshoba Central proudly welcomed back Mr. Prentice Copeland and unveiled a freshly restored rocket that has long been a symbol of school pride.

Accompanied by about 30 family members, Copeland, a beloved former superintendent who served over 22 years, addressed the home crowd, sharing his deep affection for the school. He spoke of its beauty, his school pride, and thanked everyone for their support of the football team.

“The event was super, and it was so well organized,” Copeland said. “It was a highlight of my career!”

Two rockets were donated to the school in 1974 when Copeland was the superintendent. The rockets, proudly displayed in front of the school for years, became iconic symbols of Neshoba Central. 

However, by 2004, one of the rockets was suspected to have been stolen, leaving just one remaining.

Current Superintendent Josh Perkins said that the idea to restore the surviving rocket came from Neshoba County School Board member Jimmie Joyner. Joyner’s suggestion set in motion a community effort to bring the rocket back to its former glory.

The restoration and installation of the rocket, now standing tall in the east end zone of the football field, was made possible thanks to the dedication of several alumni, including LaShon Horne, Zach Barnett, Mutt Hardin, and Joey Irby.

“Our theme this school year is ‘Rocket Pride,’” Perkins said. “The school and community mean so much for those guys to restore a piece of history that was in place from their time at Neshoba Central.”

Perkins noted that the rocket’s return has sparked fond memories, particularly for those who remember the original two rockets from their school days.

“It’s the symbol that was given and the mascot that was voted on when the school was formed in the early 1960s when consolidation took place,” Perkins said. “It’s a part of history and is a part of what this school district is and will always be.”

He added, “Being able to preserve and restore some of that history and have that pride of what it means to be a Rocket symbolizes community and supporting one another.”