The South Park High School football team will be recognized by Buffalo Mayor Byron Brown at Wednesday night's Board of Education meeting. The South Park Sparks won the state championship last Friday and made history as the first Buffalo Public School to win the title. WBFO's Focus on Education Reporter Eileen Buckley says this is a major accomplishment for one of the district's persistently struggling schools under receivership.
"It's really been a wonderful thing to see," said Terri Schuta, Principal of South Park.
Schuta responding to how this major title is lifting the spirits at a school that is one of five persistently struggling city schools. The school is under receivership and a proposed plans calls to create a 'community school'.
"Just keep pushing. Never give up. Anything is possible. Keep on making history. Never give up on what you want to do," replied Tyree Brown, South Park High School Senior & quarterback.
But Schuta remains proud of the work that has been done at the school.
"You know our morale has been kicked down and thrown around and we know the hard work that we've down here in the last seven years, raising our graduation rate over 25-points," stated Schuta.
Schuta is thrilled for South Park not only as a leader of the school, but a former graduate. She credits Coach Tim Delaney and his staff for leading the team to the championship title. Delaney noted everyone is very excited.
"Now that the season is actually over with and the historic moments that have happened, the kids will be able to look fondly for the rest of their lives," said Delaney.
Sparks quarterback and senior Tyree Brown earned MVP honors in the game. Brown returned to school on Monday to plenty of congratulations.
"I feel great you know," said Brown. "Our goal was to get to this day, so it feels good that we accomplished that goal."
"What's your message to other public high school students," asked Buckley. "Just keep pushing. Never give up. Anything is possible. Keep on making history. Never give up on what you want to do," replied Brown.
A banner along the lobby staircase reads "South Park Sparks - Number one". The school will be holding a future championship ring ceremony for the Sparks.