The efforts of several MJSHS Alumni are fostering strong Lion Pride at MJSHS. On Sunday, March 9, a group of community and student volunteers placed a taxidermied male and female lion upon a recently constructed platform in the gymnasium.
Tyler Crosson, a 2005 MJSHS Alumnus and son of Kent Crosson, a 1977 MJSHS Alumnus, discovered the two stunning taxidermied lions last year in Newton, KS. Tyler urged his father to acquire the lions for the high school. Getting the lions was just the first part; however, a platform would be needed to display the lions due to limited hallway space. Such a display would not have been possible without the generosity of another local community member, 1980 MJSHS Alumnus Brent Kindall, who graciously donated money, time, and skills to construct a sturdy 4ft. x 12ft. stand. On December 13, 2024, Mr. Kindall and Mr. Crosson anchored the platform into the concrete wall along the south side of the gymnasium, ensuring these two mascots would be displayed for current and future students.
In addition to the donated lions and platform, MJSHS Alumnus Rachel (Prochaska) Downs contributed her talents providing the beautiful mural of the Minneapolis "M" as a backdrop.
The collective effort of alumni helped turned a vision into a successful reality, with each contribution serving as a reminder of the strong bonds that connect all generations of MJSHS Lions. USD 239 is fortunate to have community members whose donations foster strong Lion Pride!