The Howard School History

Founded in 1865, The Howard School is the first free public school in Hamilton County and one of Tennessee’s oldest public schools. Established to educate newly emancipated African Americans, Howard has remained a symbol of educational excellence, leadership, and opportunity for more than 160 years.

For generations, Howard was the only public high school for Black students in Chattanooga. Its graduates have gone on to become educators, military leaders, physicians, attorneys, business leaders, elected officials, and community advocates. Today, Howard continues to honor its historic legacy while preparing students for success in college, career, and life.

Milestones

1865 – The Howard School is founded as the first free public school in Hamilton County.

1866 – Classes begin under the leadership of Rev. Edwin O. Tade, providing education for newly emancipated African Americans.

1873 – Howard becomes part of the Chattanooga Public School system.

1883 – High school courses are added, officially establishing Howard High School.

1919 – The school relocates to its campus at 10th and Carter Streets.

1954 – Howard moves to its present campus on South Market Street.

1960 – Howard students help lead Chattanooga’s Civil Rights Movement through peaceful sit-ins and demonstrations.

1969 – Following school desegregation, Howard begins a new chapter as an integrated high school while preserving its proud traditions.

1997 – Howard becomes part of Hamilton County Schools following the merger of Chattanooga City Schools and Hamilton County Schools.

2000s – Howard transforms into a modern college and career focused high school by expanding Career and Technical Education programs, increasing Early Postsecondary Opportunities, modernizing instructional spaces, strengthening Fine Arts and athletics, and building partnerships with colleges, universities, and local businesses.

2012 – Build Me a World, a documentary that highlights Howard’s history and transformation, premieres, bringing national attention to the school’s enduring legacy.

2015 – Howard celebrates 150 years of educational excellence and service to the Chattanooga community.

2018 – Dr. LeAndrea Ware, a proud Howard alumna, is named Executive Principal and begins leading a new era of academic excellence, innovation, and community engagement.

2019 – Bill Gates visits The Howard School to recognize its innovative turnaround efforts and commitment to student success. Howard’s transformation is later featured on Gates Notes, bringing national attention to the school’s work.

2020 – Howard expands student supports by opening its school-based health clinic, providing students and families with greater access to healthcare services.

2024 – The school unveils the new Reggie White Field, honoring one of Howard’s most distinguished alumni and investing in the future of student athletics and school pride.

2026 – Mrs. Charhonda Gardner, also a proud Howard alumna, begins a new chapter as Executive Principal, building on Howard’s rich legacy while advancing a vision centered on academic excellence, belonging, innovation, and the commitment to Every Tiger. Every Seat. Every Day.

Today – The Howard School continues to prepare students to lead and serve through rigorous academics, career pathways, championship athletics, fine arts, and meaningful community partnerships while honoring more than 160 years of Tiger Pride.

A Legacy of Excellence Since 1865

Every Tiger. Every Seat. Every Day.