Shreveport, La. — On Saturday, Southwood High School gathered students, families, and local residents for the opening of its 2026 homecoming week. The annual parade, a cherished tradition that showcases school spirit and community pride, rolled down Walker Road with the homecoming court leading the way.
Bright orange and blue decorations fluttered along the route as candy and beads were tossed to cheering onlookers. Parents and grandparents lined the streets, waving flags and cheering for the seniors who have spent years building the school’s legacy of faith, family, and service.
Family support at the heart of the celebration
Long‑time supporters like Nikeya Harrison attended to cheer on her daughter, this year’s homecoming queen. “We just come out and support every year,” Harrison said, emphasizing the importance of families standing behind their children’s achievements.
Harrison added that her daughter is a senior and that their family makes the parade a yearly tradition, whether or not a child is part of the homecoming court. Similarly, Sarah Gatlin was on hand to back her son, the homecoming king. “They have amazing school spirit. They show up and they show out all the time,” Gatlin remarked, highlighting the strong community involvement that defines Southwood’s events.
Parade concludes with a carnival for all ages
The procession ended at the Southwood campus, where a carnival awaited. Food stalls, games, and music created a festive atmosphere that allowed families to continue celebrating together. The event reinforced the school’s commitment to fostering a safe, supportive environment where students can thrive academically and socially.
School officials noted that the homecoming week not only honors athletic achievements but also underscores the values of teamwork, respect, and parental involvement—principles that align with the broader mission of nurturing responsible, faith‑grounded citizens.
As the carnival wound down, attendees expressed optimism that the spirit of homecoming would carry forward into the rest of the school year, reinforcing the bonds that make Southwood High a cornerstone of the Shreveport community.
Original reporting: KTBS 3 (Shreveport) — read the source article.
