Little Folks School
Cochran County, Texas
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Little Folks School
Little Folks School was opened on September 1, 1947 to children who were five years-old. The school was operated by Miss Lena Dutch, who later married Joe Gipson. "The first few days were spent in getting acquainted with me as their teacher, and they as my dolls under my beloved care. In a very short time, the one room school with restroom was completed, tables were placed in the school, with their chairs in place. Each day found new experiences for each of us in the three and one-half hours spent together."
The school opened with twelve students. The Little Folks School coordinated with public school in attendance days and vacation time. Enrollment quickly increased and soon the school had twenty-five students. Mrs. Gipson wrote:
The school became a very popular group, being asked many times to perform for study clubs, the P. T. A. and in community events.
Curriculum included security walks and behavior in and out of school - which included taking walks and going shopping.
Once a year the students were driven, by their parents, to Muleshoe, where they boarded the train and rode to Clovis to enjoy the Clovis zoo.
Graduation was held at one of the local churches and the students, dressed in blue robes and white square top hats, would perform for the audience. Awards were handed out and each child received a diploma. The graduation message was always given by a local minister.
Little Folks School was open for twenty-four years and six months.
Mrs. Gipson wrote of her school
1971 Little Folks Graduating Class:"As I reminisce over the years I operated my school, I gladly say those years were the happiest days of my life, even though I had spent ten other years in public teaching. I proudly point with pride to many of my pupils when I see the success they have made in their lives, and think perhaps some of their success in life can be attributed to Little Folks School. I love you, ex-students of Little Folks School."
Standing L - R: Bill Eubanks, Randy Cox, Kensey Chancey, Gretchen Smith, Alice Marina, Sara McClung, Mike Iley
Sitting L - R: Pam Wesley, Scott Cheppard, Lee Talley, Debi Young, Radonna Gilliam, David Clair, Chad Savers
If you know of a school in Cochran County that is not listed here, or if you have photos, maps, documents or stories you would like to share, please, email me!
Source: Texas' Last Frontier: A New History of Cochran County by Elvis E. Fleming and David J. Murrah