The Minden High School Class of 1976 celebrated its 50th reunion Saturday, October 24, at Pine Hills Country Club in Minden, honoring two former teachers whose influence on their students has lasted half a century.
The celebration, themed “Spirit of ’76,” recognized former teachers Ruby Musgrow and Jerri Lee, who were presented with certificates of honor in appreciation of their dedication to education and the lasting impact they made on their students.
Class member Felecia Penton, who helped organize the recognition, said the Class of 1976 has always considered itself special. As the nation’s Bicentennial graduating class, however, reaching its 50th reunion in 2026 made the occasion even more meaningful.
During her introduction, Penton reflected on the teachers who helped shape the class.
“Tonight we have the privilege of welcoming two remarkable educators who, along with countless others, helped shape our high school years in ways we’re still discovering and are grateful for — and who somehow survived teaching us, the Class of 1976.”
Penton described Musgrow as a dedicated science educator whose career began in 1962 and whose high expectations encouraged generations of students to think critically. Lee, who taught English and French, was remembered for her patience, humor, and ability to encourage students while challenging them academically.
Musgrow shared memories of arriving at Minden High in 1974 after Webster High School closed. She recalled that her first physics class was initially disappointed because students had expected to have another teacher, Mr. Delaney.
Her reception from the junior chemistry class, however, was considerably different.
Musgrow recalled a student entering the classroom, doing a cartwheel, standing on his hands, and enthusiastically welcoming her to the school.
The rest of the class was equally welcoming, she said, helping her adjust to the changes and reminding her why she loved teaching.
“But all the rest of this junior class made me feel welcome. And I owe you a debt of gratitude because you helped me get through those first two years and experience the joy of teaching, which I still love to do.”
Musgrow also shared a memory of former student John Agan, who later became a well-known Webster Parish historian and author.
She recalled that Agan initially disliked science and was frustrated by her insistence that students explain the reasoning behind scientific facts rather than simply memorize answers.
She described asking him how he knew a candle needed oxygen to burn, repeatedly pressing him to explain the evidence behind his answer.
Although the two did not get along particularly well in the classroom, they eventually developed a friendship. Agan visited her frequently before his death, and Musgrow said she purchased all his books and appreciated the local history he preserved and shared.
Musgrow also reflected on the classmates who had died, whose photographs had been shown during a memorial presentation earlier in the evening.
She concluded by thanking her former students for the kindness they had shown her during her early years at Minden High.
Lee also expressed appreciation for the invitation, reflecting on how quickly 50 years had passed and the accomplishments of the students who once filled her classroom.
“As teachers, it was very important to us that we taught by precept and by example that to whom much is given, much is required.”
She then offered the class a simple assessment of its accomplishments.
“And Class of ’76, you did good. I think you really did good, and we are so proud of you.”
Lee drew laughter when she began to say she looked forward to seeing everyone again, then reconsidered.
“And we look forward to seeing you — well, I take that back. You all might be looking forward to seeing each other in the next 10 years!”
Following their remarks, Penton presented both educators with certificates recognizing their contributions.
Lee’s certificate acknowledged her dedication to teaching English and French, her commitment to excellence, and her belief in her students’ potential.
Musgrow’s certificate recognized her more than six decades in education, her commitment to scientific discovery, and her encouragement of curiosity and critical thinking.
The reunion celebration also included a memorial video honoring deceased classmates, recognition of classmates who served in the military and as first responders, and a dinner catered by Hugh Wood.
For the Class of 1976, the evening provided an opportunity not only to celebrate 50 years since graduation, but also to thank two of the educators who helped prepare them for the years that followed.
