Prescott Field: How Dak Prescott’s Gift Sparked a New Era at Haughton High

When Haughton High School dedicated its football field as Prescott Field, it wasn’t just a name change – it was a turning point for the school and community. Thanks to Dallas Cowboys quarterback and Haughton alumnus Dak Prescott, the school installed the largest high school video board in Louisiana. This towering structure has become more than a scoreboard – it’s a symbol of pride, opportunity, and innovation for the entire community.

A Pep Rally to Remember

The dedication event was electric. Fireworks lit up the sky as thousands gathered to celebrate Prescott’s generosity. His jersey was retired, heartfelt speeches echoed across the stadium, and students beamed with pride knowing they played a role in the production.

DakClassroom: Students Behind the Screen

Prescott’s gift didn’t stop at hardware. It launched a new digital media curriculum – DakClassroom, a multi-course CTE curriculum from Daktronics, designed to teach students real-world production skills. Under instructor Joshua O’Nishea, students manage everything from live game-day production to social media graphics.

“We wanted this to be 100% student-driven. Everything that goes on the board starts with their ideas, and that’s what makes this program so powerful.” 

This hands-on program teaches essential skills: teamwork, technology, and creative problem-solving. Students collaborate under tight deadlines to entertain thousands every Friday night.

Sophomore Ashton Picou shared, “I’ve learned how to edit videos, design graphics, and even run replays during games. When I saw my work on the big screen for the first time, it was shocking – but awesome.”

It was intimidating at first, but once we got into a flow, our productions became really fun,” said Addyson Dutcher, a junior who runs camera operations and creates hype videos. “Seeing the crowd cheer for something we helped create, it’s amazing. We’re one of only ten students doing this. It feels incredible to make something the whole community loves.

Athletic director David Turner, who worked closely with Prescott on his groundbreaking donation, added, “These kids aren’t just learning. They’re creating something that entertains thousands every week. That’s a big responsibility, and they’ve stepped up in a huge way.”

Impact Beyond the Field

The video board has also become a fundraising powerhouse. Sponsorship slots sold out in less than 24 hours, doubling previous revenue records and generating nearly $50,000 in its first year. These funds support athletics, new equipment, and future tech upgrades, benefiting every sport from football to track, as well as students in the classroom.

A Legacy of Inspiration

For Dak Prescott, the mission was clear: inspire the next generation. “I hope I can be that image for one of these kids,” he said during the dedication. “Whether it’s football or being a doctor or something else in life, I hope they realize they can do it.”

“I’m so proud to be back here. This community shaped me, and I just want these kids to know their dreams are possible.”