Type Public School district Shelby County Schools Grades 9-12 Mascot Warrior | Established 1909 Principal Gregory McCullough Area 2 ha Phone +1 901-416-4500 | |
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Motto Enhancing The Tradition of Excellence Address 306 S Bellevue Blvd, Memphis, TN 38104, USA District Memphis City Schools, Shelby County Schools Profiles | ||
Central High School is a public high school (grades 9-12) in Memphis, Tennessee. Since it was founded in the early 1900s and is considered the first high school in Memphis; Central is often called "THE" High School. It is a part of the Shelby County Schools Optional School system where it is recognized as a school specializing in college preparatory programs. The principal is Gregory McCullough. Central's mascot is the Warrior and the school colors are green and gold. For recognition as the successor to Memphis High School, the first high school in Memphis, Central High's football team, rather than having artwork denoting the "Warrior" mascot, simply has a capital "H", for THE High School
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History
Central High was built in 1911, when the current building was erected on Raleigh Avenue, now called Bellevue Blvd. It is in the Jacobean Revival architecture style, with corner pavilions on the west facade, and rusticated surrounds on the upper story windows. Though there have been additions, the school retains is architectural integrity. Central High's building was added to the National Register of Historic Places on September 17, 1982.
Academics
Central High School offers a traditional program of academics as well as an 'Optional' Optional College Preparatory Program. Honors and ADvanced Placesment courses are offered.
Demographics
In 2014, 405 students received diplomas. ACT composite scores for the 2014-2015 school year were 18.1 vs 19.8 for the state and 21.1 national.
Extra-Curricular/Clubs and Organizations
Central High school is known for its many clubs in foreign language, volunteer service, and honor societies. Central's extracurricular activities include:
Central's concert choir under the direction of Mr. Gaylon Robinson has won many awards in the state and nation. Central's band adopted their own mascot called "Sam." (Spirit, Attitude, Musicionship) Central currently has two new band directors - Mr. Ollie Lidell and Mr. Roderick White. Central also has many successful athletic teams. The most notable are the softball team, cross country, basketball and track teams. The Lady Warrior Basketball team won the City and Regional Championships and were semifinalists at the state level in 2010. The Student Council is also very notable in the city, having participated in national and international student council conventions.