Eagles hatch anew

It was most fitting that a ribbon cutting to mark the opening of the first parts of the renovation of Central High School into the Central High School Museum and Cultural Arts Center happed on an almost spring day.

Central High School 

A good sized group of people, many “seasoned citizens” who are alumni of Central High ignored rain mixed with hail to walk the corridors of their memory.

The building, surplus property after the school year ended in May, 2007, sat empty and neglected for far too long. Mold and vermin took over the hallways and classrooms and vandals had their way.

While first campaigning for office in 2011,  constituents told District 2 Supervisor Manuel Alvarez, Jr. that they would like to see Central High School saved and put to good use. He recalled being puzzled at the request, because it seemed to be a symbol of discrimination and segregation.

The late Patricia Keel, one of many community members who worked to save Central High, explained to him that Central High represented a victory. It was the first time a school for African American children in Goochland had been built with tax dollars. It provided local educational opportunities that helped its graduates move on to successful and productive lives.

Yearbook photos show students engaged in learning activities

Alvarez, and former County Administrator Rebecca Dickson began a community dialogue about the future of the venerable building, which was constructed in 1938 and added onto over the years. Options ranged from tearing the whole thing down, to total renovation. The county had set aside $500 thousand for the project. The question” if it costs that much to tear it down, what can we do to fix it with that money?” was asked, and creative juices began to flow.

A committee of engaged citizens was formed to craft a plan for the next life of Central High. Committee members are: Gloria Turner Chair; Sekou Shabaka Vice chair; Keisha Carroll; Bonnie Creasy; Rebecca Dickson; Sally Graham; Peter Gretz; William Henson; Calvin Hopkins; Theresa Howell; Kimberly Jefferson; Ruth Johnson; James Lane; Jennifer Layton; Debra MacKay; Virginia Robinson; and Derek Stamey. As the county was strapped for cash due to the economic downturn, things proceeded slowly.

Renovating the gym, the first step, to ease a shortage of recreation space breathed new life into the abandoned site. In 2016, the county’s Department of Community Development operated out of the main section of Central High while its space in the administration building was reconfigured.

The ultimate goal is to create a place that is not only a museum to the past, but a place for community ventures from preschool to senior citizen activities. Parks and rec expect to offer programs there. The business plan created by the committee expects fees generated y programs and space rental to make Central High self-sustaining.

In addition to the gym, a warming kitchen can accommodate catered events. The centerpiece of the ribbon cutting was the auditorium, a comfortable well-lit flexible space.

Derek Stamey, Deputy County Administrator for Operations, said that the project came in on time and under budget. He said that the contractors who transformed plans into reality made the project a labor of love. They put finishing touches on the  project during the power outrages of the previous weekend.

Contractor Leigh Gordon, took great pride in the auditorium mill work. The simple, yet elegant classic trim on the windows and around the stage signals that it is a very special place. A stylized eagle, the mascot of Central High, keeps a watchful eye on the proceedings from the rear wall.

The classical trim in the auditorium adds an elegant touch to this important space.

Gloria Turner declared that “God is above everything. Prayer and faith helped us to accomplish this as a place where all people can come together. Central High School will always stand.”

Goochland County Administrator John Budesky welcomed the assemblage “back to your Central High School.” He said it is remarkable what happens when the community comes together to make things happen.

Sekou Shabaka, Committee Vice Chair, regretted that Becky Dickson was not at the event. He envisions Central High becoming a hub of community activity in the near future.

Classrooms have been transformed into recreation spaces. An interactive screen in the hallway provides a means to browse electronic scans of Central High year books. An open house is planned for April.

May the next generation of eagles hatched at Central High rise out of the dark days of the past into the bright light of the future.

The eagle is watching!