Harding University High School: A History of Education, Integration, and Transformation
Harding University High School, located at 2001 Alleghany Street in Charlotte, North Carolina, boasts a rich history marked by academic evolution, courageous steps toward integration, and a commitment to serving its diverse student body. Established in 1935, the school has undergone several transformations, adapting to the changing needs of its students and the surrounding community.
Early Years and the Legacy of Harry P. Harding
The story of Harding High School begins with Harry Patrick Harding, for whom the school was originally named. Born in 1874 in Aurora, North Carolina, Harding dedicated his life to education. He served as the superintendent of Charlotte schools and played a pivotal role in establishing the high school that would bear his name.
In 1935, Harry P. Harding High School opened its doors with James R. Hawkins as its first principal. The original building comprised fourteen classrooms, an auditorium, and two offices, constructed at a cost of approximately $100,000. The school initially served students in grades seven through ten, with the twelfth grade temporarily eliminated due to budget cuts during the Depression. Despite initial challenges such as the lack of an auditorium, gym, cafeteria, and library, the school quickly became a center of learning and community.
The first P.T.A. played a crucial role in advocating for the school and honoring Harry P. Harding, despite his initial reluctance to have a school named after a living superintendent. In its early years, the school's faculty consisted of fourteen dedicated educators, including Miss Flora Mae Watson, Miss Rebecca Henderson, Mrs. Willie Shore, Mrs. Lois Roach, Miss Sallie Sandifer, Mrs. Lois Summerville, and Mrs. Mary Sawyer.
Growth and Development
The school experienced significant growth in its early years. By the fall of 1936, an eleventh grade was added, followed by the twelfth grade in 1937, marking the establishment of the first Senior Class. The faculty expanded to accommodate the growing student body, and new programs and activities were introduced, including the Harding HI-Lights newspaper and an expanded Acorn yearbook.
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A major expansion of the original facility was completed in April 1939, providing much-needed space for a new gymnasium, cafeteria, library, science labs, and a shop. Construction also began on a new athletic field, largely funded by the Works Progress Administration (WPA).
During the 1940s, Harding High School continued to thrive, even amidst the challenges of World War II. Students participated in patriotic activities, and the school maintained a full sports program and various clubs. The faculty ensured that students experienced high school in a manner as close to normal as possible.
A Stand Against Segregation: Dorothy Counts and the Fight for Integration
Harding High School played a significant role in the desegregation of schools in Charlotte. On September 4, 1957, Dorothy Counts, a 15-year-old African American girl, bravely enrolled at Harding High School, becoming one of the first black students to attend a previously all-white school in the city.
Counts faced immense hostility and racism. She was met by a mob of white students and adults who jeered, spat on, and harassed her. Despite the abuse, she stoically entered the school, where she was further subjected to hissing, mocking, and the throwing of garbage. Teachers largely ignored her plight.
The courage and resilience of Dorothy Counts in the face of such adversity brought shame to many in Charlotte and highlighted the injustice of segregation. However, after a week of enduring the abuse, her father withdrew her from Harding, and the family moved to Philadelphia.
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Dorothy Counts later returned to Charlotte for college at Johnson C. Smith University and dedicated her career to working in nonprofit organizations and advocating for child care. Her bravery and the events at Harding High School contributed to the ongoing struggle for civil rights and school desegregation in Charlotte.
Transformation and Modernization
In 1992, Harry P. Harding High School underwent a significant transformation, becoming a Math, Science, and Technology school. In 1995, it added an International Baccalaureate program, further enhancing its academic offerings. At this time, the school was renamed Harding University High School.
The school's motto has changed several times over the years, reflecting its evolving mission and values. Today, Harding University High School continues to serve a diverse student body, preparing them for success in college and careers.
Athletics: A Source of Pride and Community
Harding University High School has a strong athletic tradition, with its teams known as the Rams. The school has produced numerous talented athletes who have gone on to excel at the collegiate and professional levels.
In football, Harding has a long history of success, with notable coaches like Dave Harris leading the team to multiple championships. The school has also produced several players who have gone on to play in the NFL, including Roy Hord.
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The Harding University High School Band of Gold, led by director Anthony Jones, gained national recognition in January 2009 when it was invited to perform in the 56th Inaugural Parade of President Barack Obama. The band's participation required significant fundraising efforts, which were supported by contributions from across North Carolina, including a generous donation from Carolina Panthers wide receiver Steve Smith.
Harding University High School Today
Today, Harding University High School remains a vital institution in the Charlotte-Mecklenburg Schools system. With a diverse student body and a dedicated staff, the school continues to provide a quality education and prepare students for success in the 21st century.
The school's commitment to academic excellence, combined with its rich history and strong sense of community, makes Harding University High School a valuable asset to the city of Charlotte.
A Parallel: University High School in Los Angeles
While this article primarily focuses on Harding University High School in Charlotte, North Carolina, it is interesting to note the existence of another high school with a similar name: University High School in Los Angeles, California. Formerly known as Warren G. Harding High School, the Los Angeles school shares some interesting historical parallels.
The Los Angeles school was initially named after President Warren G. Harding in 1924, but the name was changed to University High School in the late 1920s due to scandals that discredited Harding's administration. The school's architecture, with its Italian Romanesque styling, mirrors that of nearby UCLA.
University High School in Los Angeles has also undergone transformations over the years. It has become an affiliated charter school and is known for its diverse student body and its use as a filming location for movies and television shows.
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