Washington Magnet Elementary School facts for kids
Quick facts for kids |
|
|
Washington Graded and High School
|
|
Front entrance to the school
|
|
 Location in North Carolina
Location in the United States
|
|
| Location | 1000 Fayetteville St., Raleigh, North Carolina |
|---|---|
| Area | 16.5 acres (6.7 ha) |
| Built | 1923-1924 |
| Architect | Christopher Gadson Sayre, W.B. Barrow and Son, et al. |
| Architectural style | Tudor Revival |
| NRHP reference No. | 04001584 |
| Added to NRHP | February 2, 2005 |
Washington Magnet Elementary School is a historic school building located in Raleigh, North Carolina. It was built almost 100 years ago, between 1923 and 1924. This school was originally built to educate African-American students in Raleigh. Today, it is a special magnet elementary school.
Contents
A School's Journey Through Time
Early Years and Important Role
From 1924 until 1953, Washington School played a very important role. It was the only high school for African-American students in Raleigh. This changed when John W. Ligon Junior-Senior High School was built. Ligon High School then took on the role of educating older students.
Becoming a Magnet School
In 1982, Washington School changed its focus. It became an elementary school. It also joined the magnet program. This program offers special learning opportunities. It includes a Gifted & Talented curriculum for students.
A Recognized Historic Place
Washington School is also known for its history. In 2001, it was added to the National Register of Historic Places. This means it is a building with special historical importance. In 2003, the City of Raleigh also named it a Local Historic Site.
The School Building
How the School Was Built
The Washington Graded and High School building was constructed in 1923-1924. This was part of a bigger plan for Raleigh. The city wanted to expand its education system. More children needed schools at that time.
Funding and Design
The money for the school came from a special fund. The school board raised money in 1922 to help build new schools. The original building has two stories and is made of brick. It was designed in the Tudor Revival style. This style looks a bit like old English buildings.
Additions and Updates
Over the years, the school building grew. A three-story addition was built in 1927. A track for sports was added in 1942. A gymnasium was built in 1949. More additions were made in 1996 and 2000. The entire building was also updated and renovated between 2002 and 2003.
Famous People Who Attended
Many notable people went to Washington School. Here are a few:
- John H. Baker Jr. – He was a professional football player in the NFL. Later, he became the sheriff of Wake County for many years.
- Maycie Herrington – She is known for her work in preserving history.
- June Kay Campbell – She was an important activist for civil rights.
- Pee Wee Moore – He was a talented jazz saxophonist.
- Millie Dunn Veasey – She was a civil rights activist and a veteran of the United States Army.
Notable Teachers and Leaders
- John W. Ligon – He was an interim principal at the school. Another school, John W. Ligon Middle School, was named after him.
External links
