Randolph-Henry High School will celebrate their annual homecoming Friday, kicking off with the annual homecoming parade at 5 p.m.

Randolph-Henry High School (R-HHS) paraprofessional and bus driver Wallace Stokes has been named Grand Marshal of the 2018 homecoming parade.

Stokes was previously named the winner of the 2018 Varsity Brands School Spirit Award in the staff member category.

According to previous information from the school, Stokes recently traveled to Orlando, Florida to attend an awards show at Walt Disney World May 12.

“It was wonderful, I enjoyed myself,” said Stokes at that time.

He said it was important to always put the children first.

“These awards honor the very best of America’s high schools by recognizing outstanding schools, organizations and individuals that go above and beyond to build school pride, student engagement and community spirit,” said information from Varsity Brands.

Stokes was a finalist among two other nominees in the staff member category.

“Wallace Stokes is so deserving of this award,” said Superintendent of Charlotte County Schools Dr. Nancy Leonard. “His kindness, concern for others, and love of Randolph-Henry is such a positive influence in our schools. Wallace is truly an ambassador for Charlotte County Schools and a positive role model for our students. I am thankful that he was recognized at the National level for his school spirit.”

At that time, Stokes said it was a great honor to him. “It means a lot to me from the students and the staff and the community. I’m very humbled by it because I was very surprised,” he said.

Stokes has worked at R-HHS for 18 years and according to nomination information, he is the go-to person for all students, staff and administration. “Between his multiple positions within the school, he also immerses himself in other responsibilities, such as covering classes for teachers, driving buses to extracurricular trips, painting and maintenance of the school over breaks, washing fleets of busses, making popcorn for everyone on Wednesdays and so much more,” said the nomination. “Mr. Stokes has an unending well of enthusiasm and passion for Randolph-Henry High School, the students and its moving parts.”

After the parade, the Varsity Statesmen will take the field against the visiting Amelia County Raiders at 7 p.m.

During the homecoming football game, the homecoming court presentation will be held during halftime.

Throughout the week at R-HHS, the Statesmen have participated in spirit week. Each day, participants were able to dress up in a different theme including Monday, college gear and crocs; Tuesday, favorite movie, book, or TV show character; Wednesday, western day; Thursday, generation day and Friday will be school spirit day where students will have the opportunity to wear the school colors of blue and white.