How about we journey back to 1955? That’s when East Jefferson High School first opened its doors. It stands here in Metairie, Louisiana. East Jefferson High School is more than just a school. It’s a place with a unique history and a strong sense of community.
East Jefferson High School initially served as a coeducational institution. But it transitioned to a boys-only school for grades 10 and 11 starting in 1964. This change came about because Riverdale High School opened as a girls-only school. By 1970, East Jefferson High School had swelled to over 2000 boys. This forced the school to implement a two-shift system. Students attended classes either from 7 AM to noon or from 1 PM to 6 PM. The cafeteria even became a library.
To alleviate the overcrowding, Alfred T Bonnabel High School was built. It was intended to be an all-male school. In 1973, the East Jefferson morning shift was called “Bonnabel”. The afternoon shift was “East Jefferson”. The shifts flip-flopped the following year. Finally, all Jefferson Parish high schools returned to co-ed status in the early 1980s.
East Jefferson High School’s athletics program is a point of pride. The school competes in the Louisiana High School Athletic Association. Joseph S Yenni Stadium is conveniently located on campus. In 2013, the East Jefferson Warriors football team achieved the ultimate goal. They finished the season with a perfect 15-0 record. They secured the state championship with a 38-28 victory against Edna Karr. This marked the school’s first state title in football.
Before this remarkable achievement, East Jefferson High School had a strong baseball tradition. The baseball team won three state championships in the 1970s. They won in 1971, 1972, and 1978. These victories cemented the school’s reputation for athletic excellence.
East Jefferson High School has produced many notable alumni. These alumni have excelled in various fields. Joe Brockhoff coached baseball at Tulane University. Micah Blunt played basketball and was drafted by the Los Angeles Lakers. John T Curtis Jr is the second-winningest coach in high school football history. Mike Miley was a two-sport athlete. He played quarterback and shortstop at LSU. He later played shortstop for the California Angels. Art Lentini served in the Louisiana State Senate. Bunny Matthews was a well-known music journalist and cartoonist. Neil Reed was named Louisiana Player of the Year in basketball.
Today, East Jefferson High School continues to thrive. It is a part of the Jefferson Parish Public Schools system. The school serves grades 9 through 12. The student population was 1,499 in the 2023-2024 school year. Access Health Louisiana also operates a school-based health center here. It provides behavioral health services to students.
East Jefferson High School has a rich history. It has overcome challenges and celebrated triumphs. From its athletic achievements to its notable alumni. East Jefferson High School is a pillar of the community. The school’s colors, blue and white, represent pride and tradition. The mascot, Tecumseh, embodies the spirit of a true warrior.