| Central High School | |
|---|---|
 Memphis Central High modern entry | |
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306 South Bellevue Boulevard , 38104 United States | |
| Information | |
| Type | Public |
| Motto | Enhancing The Tradition of Excellence |
| Established | 1909 |
| School district | Shelby County Schools |
| Principal | Amy Epps |
| Teaching staff | 78.98 (FTE)[1] |
| Grades | 9–12 |
| Enrollment | 1,300 (2023–2024)[1] |
| Student to teacher ratio | 16.46[1] |
| Colors | Green and gold |
| Fight song | Warrior Song/War Drum |
| Mascot | Warrior |
| Nickname | The High School |
| Website | schools |
Central High School | |
 Front of Central High | |
   | |
| Location | 306 S. Bellevue Blvd.,Memphis, Tennessee |
|---|---|
| Coordinates | 35°8′1″N90°1′11″W / 35.13361°N 90.01972°W /35.13361; -90.01972 |
| Area | 6 acres (2.4 ha) |
| Built | 1911 |
| Architect | B.C. Alsup |
| Architectural style | Tudor Revival, Jacobethan Revival |
| MPS | Public Schools of Memphis 1902-1915 TR |
| NRHP reference No. | 82004041[2] |
| Added to NRHP | September 17, 1982 |
Central High School is a publichigh school (grades 9-12) inMemphis,Tennessee, United States. Founded in the early 1900s, it is popularly considered the first high school in Memphis. This, however, is not accurate; in fact, 3 High Schools in Memphis were established before Central:Booker T Washington in 1873 (with the same colors and mascot),Manassas HS in 1899, andMelrose in 1894.
Central is often called "THE" High School. It is a part of theShelby County Optional School system where it is recognized as a school specializing in college preparatory programs. The principal is Amy Epps. Central's mascot is the Warrior (formerly the Thunderbird) and the school colors are green and gold. For recognition as the successor toMemphis High School, the first high school for whites in Memphis, Central High's football team, rather than having artwork denoting the "Warrior" mascot, simply has a capital "H", for THEHigh School
Central High was built in 1911 by the Memphis Board of Education, when the current building was erected on Raleigh Avenue, now called Bellevue Blvd. It is in theJacobean 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 its architectural integrity.[3] Central High's building was added to theNational Register of Historic Places on September 17, 1982.[2]
Central High School offers a traditional program of academics as well as a College Preparatory Optional Program. Honors andAdvanced Placement courses are offered.[4]
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.[4][needs update]
Central High School has clubs in foreign language, volunteer service, and honor societies. Central's jazz band placed first in the 2025Essentially Ellington High School Jazz Band Competition in New York City, winning additional awards for trumpet, trombone, and rhythm sections.[5][6]
Central High has numerous varsity sports teams, including baseball/softball, basketball, swimming, golf, football, soccer, volleyball, cross country/track, tennis, and wrestling.[7]
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