Orlando Standard

The City of Orlando is set to unveil a state historical marker on February 15, 2025, at the Dr. J.B. Callahan Neighborhood Center to commemorate the site of the original Jones High School and Callahan Elementary School. District 5 City Commissioner Shan Rose will attend the event along with members of the Callahan Neighborhood Association, elected officials, and former students.

The marker is to acknowledge the historical significance of the site at the corner of North Parramore Avenue and West Washington Street, which opened in the 1922-23 school year as Jones High School. This high school was the first and only educational institution for Black students in Orlando and played a pivotal role in the community's development during segregation.

In 1952, the site was converted into Callahan Elementary School, named after Dr. J.B. Callahan, the only Black physician in the area at the time. In 1970, it became the sole school in Orange County to be closed amid desegregation efforts. It was later transformed into the Dr. J.B. Callahan Neighborhood Center, continuing to serve the community of Parramore.

Following the unveiling, former students will partake in a brunch with music provided by the Jones Alumni and Community Band.