The Gadsden County School District is inviting the community to the unveiling of the Robert Lee Jackson Memorial Field on Thursday, July 4, 2024.
The festivities will begin at 7 p.m. at Greensboro Elementary School with a live band performance and other activities.
The unveiling ceremony is set for 8 p.m.
The dedication ceremony will celebrate the legacy of Coach Robert Lee Jackson, whose influence in education and athletics left a lasting mark on the community.
Coach Jackson, a Tallahassee native and Florida Agricultural & Mechanical University graduate, served in the United States Army during the Vietnam War and devoted 36 years to teaching physical education at Greensboro Elementary, Greensboro High School, and West Gadsden High School. His coaching career included 28 years as head football coach, 17 years as junior varsity basketball coach, 10 years as head girls basketball coach, and 13 years as head girls fast-pitch softball coach.
At the time of his retirement in 2008, he held the distinction of winningest coach in the Big Bend and Gadsden County’s history while also being the winningest Black football coach in Florida High School Athletic Association history.
Coach Jackson’s accolades include being named Gadsden County Football Coach of the Year ten times and leading his teams to four district championships, three regional championships, and multiple state finals. His dedication extended beyond sports, as he also volunteered with Special Olympics Florida – Gadsden County The event will include remarks from family members and school officials, celebrating Coach Jackson’s contributions to education, athletics and the community.
Coach Jackson’s widow, Gail Rittman-Jackson said the field dedication is a way to keep Jackson’s memory alive.
“I feel like he did a lot for the community,” Rittman-Jackson said. “I’ve talked to some of his former students and former players; he had a great impact on them.”
Rittman-Jackson said her husband, who succumbed to cancer in 2019, had a heart for all students.
“He wanted students to excel in academics first, athletics and to be a positive role model in their community.”
The unveiling ceremony will be held in conjunction with Greensboro Kiwanis Club’s annual Fourth of July celebration.
Greensboro Elementary School is located at 559 Greensboro Highway in Greensboro.
There will also be food trucks, and a fireworks show will follow the unveiling ceremony.
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