A new 11-foot, 250-pound polyresin totem pole was unveiled today at Choctawhatchee High School, honoring more than 70 years of school tradition. The new structure now stands at the front of the campus, near where the original wooden totem pole was located from 1997 until it was removed during recent construction. Due to age and deterioration, the original could not be safely relocated or reinstalled.
“Choctaw is built on tradition, and our new Totem Pole was so carefully designed to tell our 73-year-old story,” said Principal Michelle Heck. “I’m so grateful as well as proud of our alumni who served on the design committee and felt so passionate about the Choctawhatchee standard of excellence with Academics, Athletics, Music, and Arts. What they have helped to create will continue our legacy for the next many generations.”
The project began in 2023 and was a collaboration between Choctaw alumni, district staff, and School Board Member Linda Evanchyk. Alum Mark Forsman designed the totem pole, and the committee partnered with Icon Poly, a Nebraska-based company, to bring the design to life using advanced 3D sculpting and resin casting. Each part of the totem pole was thoughtfully crafted to reflect different aspects of Choctawhatchee High School’s proud heritage—creating a meaningful symbol that connects students, staff, alumni, and the broader school community. “It’s a symbol of 70+ years of tradition,” said Evanchyk. “People identify with it.”
Superintendent Marcus Chambers praised the collective effort: “It was truly inspiring to see the totem pole installed today. The alumni’s dedication to preserving this tradition is remarkable, and the result is absolutely beautiful.”
