Seminole County officials announced that the former Rosenwald School property in East Altamonte is on track for a $4 million transformation into a public park and community center. The 12‑acre site, acquired by the county in 2019, will feature expanded lake access, walking paths, storm‑water improvements and a new building that reflects the historic school’s architecture.
Historical background
The Rosenwald School was built in 1931 as part of a nationwide effort to provide educational opportunities for Black children during the era of segregation. “There are many, many Rosenwald schools. I want to say in the early 1900s,” said Rick Durr, director of Seminole County Parks and Recreation. “The school itself on that site burned down.” The school closed its doors in 2011, and community advocates pushed for the land to serve a new purpose.
Current construction
County crews have already opened a modest park with walkways and pavilions. An extension to Lake Monroe (often referred to locally as Lake Mobile) is under construction, adding a fishing pier, additional walking trails and a canoe‑kayak launch directly on the water, Durr explained. “That includes a fishing pier that’s going in, the walkways that are being extended, and some storm‑water improvements, and a canoe‑kayak launch right on the lake,” he said.
Community center design
The upcoming community center will incorporate design cues from the original Rosenwald Schools, including brick facades, tall windows, high ceilings and a symmetrical, classic look. “We were able to use a lot of… the imagery of the original Rosenwald Schools – brick facades, tall windows, high ceilings, very airy, and it looks very symmetrical or classic‑looking design,” Durr noted.
Local resident Malesah Thornton expressed enthusiasm for the project. “It will be something that the community is looking forward to,” she said. “It will be a great thing, great idea. Something good for the community.”
Next steps and community input
The county plans to hold a naming contest for the new park, seeking suggestions from residents before presenting a final recommendation to the Board of County Commissioners. “We want to be able to take that to the Board of County Commissioners and officially give this park a name, but we want it to really come from the community,” Durr said.
Groundbreaking for the community center is scheduled for 5:30 p.m. on October 29. The entire project is slated for completion in 2027, providing East Altamonte families with new recreational space, a venue for gatherings and a tangible reminder of the area’s educational heritage.
Why this matters
The redevelopment aligns with Seminole County’s broader commitment to preserving historic sites while expanding quality of life amenities for its residents. By honoring the Rosenwald School’s legacy and creating modern facilities, the county demonstrates how faith‑based values of family, community and stewardship can guide public‑works projects.
Original reporting: WESH Orlando — read the source article.
