Terri Smith Gentry
Class of 1975Terri, was a student at Manual in 1974, but graduated from George Washington because of court-ordered busing in 1975. She shares her family's legacy tied to Manual. Her grandmother, a professional dancer, impacted the community through teaching dance and etiquette. Terry was involved in extracurricular activities with her grandmother, helping her cope with trauma. She recalls fond memories of school faculty, like Mr. Ward, and connections with teachers who knew her family. The conversation reflects on the rich history and relationships cultivated at Manual.
Darrick Brown
Class of 1978Darrick, a native of Denver, attended Manual in the 1970s during a time of desegregation. His family, including his mom, dad, aunts, and uncles, also went to Manual. Derek discussed the impact of busing and desegregation on the community, highlighting his involvement in the choir as a life-changing experience. Despite facing challenges, such as peer pressure, Derek made positive choices that led him to a successful career in banking and jazz music. His time at Manual shaped his perspective, fostering a love for diverse cultures and lasting friendships.
Lara McIntosh
Class of 1978Lara was in the first class to graduate after court-ordered busing began. The school was predominantly Black and the white students were bussed in. She credits the principal, James Ward for making both black and white students more comfortable with the transition. Also, a winning basketball team was a unifying force. Lara was involved in many extracurricular activities: theater, speech team, and starting the Environmental Awareness Organization. Laura’s mother and step-father taught at Manual, but after she graduated.
Lisa Jones
Class of 1978Lisa Jones, a Manual alum, graduated in '78. Her sisters, Greta and Anna, graduated in '76 and '82. Lisa was in volleyball, track, and soccer teams but ended up a cheerleader. She recalled an embarrassing cheerleading audition in the days of integration. They picked cheerleaders in front of the football team, where Lisa danced to "Play That Funky Music" with rewritten lyrics.
Katy Bryan Mount
Class of 1979Katie and her two sisters attended Manual a year apart. Katie participated in extracurricular activities like soccer club and choir. She recalls highlights of her time, including the welcoming teachers, memorable choir experiences, and a transformative senior seminar that inspired her to become a special education teacher. The seminar involved various experiential modules, including trips to Mexico and Trinidad, shaping Katie's career path. Her guidance counselor played a pivotal role in guiding her to pursue speech therapy and special education degrees at Pacific University and Lewis and Clark.
Nelson Rangell
Class of 1979Nelson’s main focus while at Manual was music. There was a tremendous music program with Hugh Avis and Joyce Davis, Thunderbolt Vibration and the Manual High Concert Band and Jazz Band. It shaped his career in jazz that continues today with national and international acclaim. Nelson reminisced about teachers who promoted independent thinking, and the impact of national events like the presidency of Jimmy Carter and court-ordered busing. Despite being bused from a different neighborhood, he recalls a harmonious school spirit and credits his time at Manual for fostering a positive cultural and intellectual growth that influenced his adult life.