The first school building was constructed in 1932.  It had two rooms on the front, with two smalls rooms on each end.  These small rooms were built for restrooms but could not be used due to the lack of a sewage system. The building had a large room across the back with a stage on the north end. This room was divided by two sets of folding doors which when closed, formed 3 rooms.

In 1935, grades nine and ten were added and in 1939, the eleventh and twelfth grades completed the school. We were now officially Hayti Negro (Central) High School.

Hayti Negro (Central) High school developed into the largest school for blacks between Memphis, TN and St. Louis, MO.  Less than 1,200 graduated from this school during its existence, but over 5,000 students attended.

In addition to serving the local community, students came from Steele, Hermondale, Gobler, Kennett, Malden, Wardell, Deering, Portageville and small farms all around the Bootheel. (Excerpt from the book “Our Story” by Iona Griggs Hollins.)

School Song

We love thee Central
Love thee so true.
None other can please us
As you do.
Striving to reach
The goal you hold so high,
We’ll love thee Central
Till we die.

Maroon and White, Oh Central
We are pledged to thee,
Ever loyal and true
We will always be.
Striving to reach
The goal you hold so high,
We’ll love thee Central
Till we die.