Gentry Middle School in Surry County is marking the start of the new school year with a distinctive twist: its 50th anniversary. The milestone has made back-to-school festivities more meaningful for students, staff, and the surrounding community.
Gentry Middle School celebrating 50th anniversary

Key Takeaways:
- Gentry Middle School celebrates its 50th anniversary.
- The school is located in Surry County.
- Special activities mark the start of the new academic year.
- The anniversary adds significant weight to the usual back-to-school excitement.
- The story was originally featured by Mtairynews on August 27, 2025.
Introduction
Gentry Middle School in Surry County enters the 2025-2026 academic year with a notable cause for celebration—its 50th anniversary. This major milestone is shaping the tone of the new school year by adding a layer of historic reflection and enthusiasm to the usual flurry of first-day activities.
Fifty Years of Foundation and Growth
Since its inception half a century ago, Gentry Middle School has been an important educational institution in Surry County. This year, its administrators and students look back on the school’s evolution. As the original news piece noted, “As is the case with many schools across Surry County, Gentry Middle School has marked the beginning of the year school year with a number of special activities. But at Gentry, the celebrations have taken on a little more meaning…”
Meaningful Celebrations
Beyond routine get-to-know-you events and first-year orientation programs, these festivities hint at deeper reflections on Gentry Middle School’s legacy. While schools across the county often hold opening gatherings, Gentry’s half-century commemoration sets it apart, giving everyone involved a broader sense of pride and a moment to appreciate the institution’s consistent focus on student growth.
Looking to the Future
All eyes are on another half-century of success. Even as students dive into new textbooks and teachers greet fresh faces, the 50th anniversary milestone underscores Gentry Middle School’s continuing role in providing quality education. From administrators to families, there’s a shared sense of excitement about what lies ahead—both for the coming school year and the many years yet to come.