NLV honoring Goynes for community contributions

It was nearly three decades ago when former principal Theron Goynes left his all-black Highland Elementary School to lead a predominantly white school across North Las Vegas.

The transfer was part of a new program implemented to help guide schools away from segregation and the 68-year-old Goynes remembers the turbulent time well.

"It was a pretty harrowing experience," said Goynes, who walked door-to-door and introduced himself to doubtful parents. "But we weathered the storm."

Goynes went on to play a vital role in integrating the community. He concentrated on introducing recreational activities that brought children of all ethnic backgrounds together.

It's only fitting that a new park where children of races will play together be named after Goynes. At 10 a.m. Saturday, the city will officially open Theron H. Goynes Park at 3909 West Washburn Road in North Las Vegas.

"I'm elated and I'm proud there is a spot in somebody's heart to say, "Well done,' " Goynes said.

Goynes said the community picnics and athletic leagues he created years ago allowed children to learn more about each other's cultures and gave their parents a chance to meet one another.

Those relationships fostered by Goynes carried into the classroom, making the integration process smoother.

"The kids thought all the activities were fun, but at the same time we developed a camaraderie with each other," Goynes said. "Together, we made a concerted effort to improve in the aspects of education, recreation and integration."

Goynes was recognized not only as a strong leader in the school system, but also in the political arena. He was appointed to the city's recreation advisory board and eventually was elected to the City Council.

He spent 18 years on the council before he was beat in the 1997 mayors race by Michael Montandon. During his lengthy tenure, five new parks and a library were built in North Las Vegas.

"Parks give kids an outlet," said Goynes, who raised three children in North Las Vegas. "My philosophy was parks are family-oriented. You need park benches, barbecues and horseshoe pits -- places a family can go and really enjoy the afternoon."

Kenny Guinn, who was superintendent of the Clark County School District during part of Goynes' 28 years with the school system, said Goynes always pitched innovative ideas to the school board.

The gubernatorial candidate said not only was Goynes an excellent principal, but as a resident and council member, he had a positive impact on the development of North Las Vegas.

"He did a lot to help integrate the community," Guinn said Thursday. "People got to know each other and listen to each other and talk to each other. It really helped the overall community in its quest for desegregation.

"He is the kind of person things should be named after."

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