The History of Big Walnut Local School District

Formed: January 1950  
Named After: Big Walnut Creek

In January 1950, the Delaware County Board of Education enacted legislation to consolidate the rival school districts of Galena and Sunbury, forming the Big Walnut Local School District. The district was named for Big Walnut Creek, a natural feature that flows through both communities.

The Formation of a New District

Before consolidation, both Sunbury and Galena planned to build new high schools. The Sunbury District had already purchased 56 acres of land, while Galena had passed a levy but hadn't yet acquired property. After the merger, it was decided to build on Sunbury's land between the two towns. This site was the beginning of a new era in local education.

Groundbreaking and Opening of Big Walnut High School

On October 27, 1950, A.D. St. Clair of the State Department of Education broke ground for Big Walnut High School at 105 Baughman Street. The school opened in 1951 and initially housed grades 8-12. It was a modern, one-story building, complete with science and shop labs, vocational agriculture, and home economics rooms, and boasted the best gym in the county at the time.

Expanding the District

In 1952, Harlem Township joined the Big Walnut Local School District, increasing the district's coverage to 107 square miles, extending east of Alum Creek in Delaware County. As the district grew, so did its infrastructure, community involvement, and educational programs.

Early Traditions and Spirit

E. LaMar Hoke, a band leader and industrial arts teacher, composed the Big Walnut High School Alma Mater. Red and gold were selected as the school colors, and the Golden Eagle was chosen as the school mascot, symbolizing the district’s pride.

Athletics and Activities

From the beginning, the district emphasized both academics and extracurricular activities. Supported by organizations such as the Big Walnut Athletic Boosters and the Sunbury Lions Club, facilities including a football field, track, and baseball diamond were constructed at the school. Students participated in football, basketball, baseball, and track for boys, while girls’ sports included basketball, volleyball, and softball.

Music and the arts also thrived at Big Walnut. The band program, which featured concert, marching, and pep bands, became a staple at community events, while school plays and show choirs attracted students and local audiences alike.

Clubs like the National Honor Society, Future Farmers of America (FFA), Future Homemakers of America, and language clubs offered students additional opportunities to engage and develop leadership skills.

Growth and Development

In 1963, the high school doubled in size, adding a new library, offices, classrooms, wood and metal shops, and an art classroom. Modular buildings were added in the early 1970s to accommodate kindergarten students, reflecting the district's continued growth. By 1974, overcrowding necessitated moving 8th graders to Harlem Elementary for two years.

The FFA also played an essential role in community involvement, establishing an Ecology Center on the property, complete with bluebird boxes maintained throughout the district.

Transition and Modernization

As the district expanded, so did its facilities. In 1991, a new high school was built, and the original Big Walnut High School underwent significant renovations, including asbestos removal, roof repairs, and new walkways. The building was converted into Big Walnut Middle School.

Leadership Over the Years

Throughout its history, Big Walnut Local Schools has benefitted from dedicated leadership. Superintendents who have served the district include Marvin Miller, Hylen Souders, Richard Miller, Carl Martin, Melissa Conrath, April Domine, Steve Mazzi, Angie Hamberg, and our current Superintendent, Ryan McLane.

Special thanks to the Big Walnut Area Historical Society for providing valuable information and historical pictures that made this page possible.