Petition to Rename Pearl River High School Gym After Coach Jake Polk

I want to express my heartfelt gratitude to everyone who has signed the petition for my dad! We have now surpassed 550 signatures in just a few weeks. Your support means the world to me, and I have personally read each name with appreciation. ❤️ I’m also excited to share that the Pearl River High School Boys' Basketball Coach has invited our family to join them at their district game on Friday, January 17th. Mr. Virgil Phillips will honor my dad and take a moment to remember the life of Coach Jake Polk—a beloved figure in our community and school, especially within this gym—affectionately known as “Papa Polk” to many. ❤️ About the petition started to change the name of the Pearl River High School gym after my dad, Coach Jake Polk … I’m thrilled to share a meaningful initiative that pays tribute to my dad, Coach Jake Polk, a true cornerstone of our community. His steadfast dedication to young athletes and his exceptional commitment to coaching and teaching at Pearl River High School are truly unparalleled. Over the years, he has imparted invaluable life lessons to countless athletes, helping them grow both in their physical abilities and in character. Growing up, my dad was an exceptional athlete, playing a pivotal role in securing Slidell High School’s only state boys' basketball championship in 1959. That same year, he was honored with a spot on the all-state team alongside L.V. McGinty Jr. After graduating from Southeastern Louisiana University in 1970, he began teaching at Sixth Ward Junior High (now an elementary school) before moving on to teach civics and driver's education. During his time at Pearl River High School from 1973 to 1994, he led the boys' basketball team to two of the three district championships in the school's history. While he coached several sports, basketball truly held his heart. In 1994, my dad transitioned to Northshore High School, where his passion for coaching and being involved in the gym could shine. He served as an assistant volleyball coach, playing a key role in two LHSAA volleyball state championships. He also contributed as the assistant basketball and track coach. While there were numerous championships won and student-athletes who went on to excel in their pursuits, the full extent of his impact is immeasurable! He has been a mentor to many young athletes, including me—his daughter. Under his guidance, I became a Division 1 basketball player on a full scholarship, a testament to his incredible ability to nurture talent. He also played a significant role in helping countless other athletes secure scholarships, always believing in their potential. After an impressive 31 years with the St. Tammany Parish School System, he retired but continued to coach. For over 15 additional years, he generously volunteered his time with the girls’ basketball and track teams at PRHS. His relentless dedication saw him spend countless hours in the gym and by the track, driven by his love for the school, the sports, and especially the athletes. He consistently emphasized the importance of fundamentals, ensuring his players understood their significance and developing a passion for the game that inspired generations of athletes. Many of Dad's former players have become coaches themselves, passing down his wisdom, values, and coaching style to future generations, which is truly special. I wholeheartedly support the initiative to rename the gymnasium at Pearl River High School in honor of my dad, Coach Jake Polk. This tribute will not only recognize his extraordinary contributions but also inspire future students and athletes. Let’s ensure that his love for the game continues to uplift and motivate Pearl River High School for years to come. Please join me in advocating for this well-deserved recognition by signing the petition to rename the PRHS gymnasium to the James C. “Jake” Polk Gymnasium. Thank you for your support! ❤️ 📣Disregard the donation part. It’s not necessary. The app used to create it won’t let the person who made it take it off.