Skip to main content

Central High School

School Profile

and
roar

 

Our History

Founded over a century ago in the heart of Alabama’s Black Belt, Central High School began as a vision of community leaders who recognized the need for quality education for African American children in Lowndes County. Through the consolidation of Charity Industrial School, Gordonville Grammar School, and Mosses School, the institution was established as Lowndes County Training School. With strong community support, state funding, and leadership from local officials, the school was built on land purchased from Robert McCord and opened as a center for academic and vocational learning.

Throughout its early years, the school grew steadily despite challenges, including multiple fires that destroyed buildings and required rebuilding. Dedicated principals and educators expanded vocational programs, increased faculty, and developed the campus with dormitories, athletic facilities, classrooms, and modern instructional spaces. These efforts laid the foundation for long-term success.

In 1976, the school was renamed Central High School. Under continued leadership, the campus saw major improvements, including the construction of the Uralee A. Haynes Gymnasium, athletic field lighting, campus renovations, and expanded academic opportunities. In 2003, Central High School achieved a 100% graduation rate for its senior class, and the school song, “Alma Mater,” was written by Gladys Patterson.

Since the early 2000s, Central High School has earned accreditation from the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools (SACS), expanded technology integration, established dual enrollment partnerships with Wallace Community College, and implemented programs to support student leadership and achievement.

Today, Central High School is one of two high schools in Lowndes County, Alabama. The school offers advanced, standard, and occupational diploma pathways, career technical endorsements, and dual enrollment opportunities. Central High School remains committed to excellence, community partnership, and preparing students to succeed as lifelong learners in a global society.

Leadership Through the Years

Central High School’s success has been guided by strong leadership committed to academic excellence, student development, and community growth. Notable principals who have shaped the school’s legacy include:

  • Mary F. Edwards – First principal

  • S.T. Wilson – Expanded vocational education

  • C.P. Everette – Led campus renovations and rebuilding efforts

  • L.R. Gresham – Completed Everette’s term

  • Wayman R. F. Grant – Oversaw construction of new academic and vocational buildings

  • James Jenkins – Continued campus development during wartime years

  • R. R. Pierce – Led major campus expansion and modernization

  • Walter Sellers (1975) – Built Uralee A. Haynes Gymnasium; football field lights installed in his honor

  • Johnny Standford (1990)

  • William Walker (1992)

  • Franklin Perry (1995)

  • Leola Bell (1998) – Achieved 100% graduation rate for the Class of 2003

  • A. C. Foster (2003) – Led major renovations and academic partnerships

  • K. E. Fair (2005) – Secured first-ever SACS accreditation

  • Peggy Grant (2008) – Earned SACS reaffirmation

  • Toriano Baker (2014)

  • Archie Curtis (2017)

Through the dedication of these leaders, Central High School continues to build a strong culture of excellence, innovation, and service to the Lowndes County community.