Community members gathered at the historic 1701 10th Street S. education building in south St. Petersburg to commemorate its 100th anniversary. Originally opened as Southside Junior High School, the building was designed by architect Henry Taylor, who also planned the Vinoy Resort & Golf Club. The structure, which cost $400,000 to build, has served various educational purposes over the decades.

A Century of Educational Service

After its initial closure in 1972, the building reopened as Southside Alternative School and later became Southside Fundamental Middle School until 2009. It has since housed the University Preparatory Academy charter school and is currently home to Midtown Academy Center for Cultural Arts, Gifted Studies, and Literacy Innovation.

St. Petersburg City Council member Corey Givens Jr., an alumnus of Southside Fundamental Middle School, co-chaired the anniversary event. Reflecting on his time there, Givens emphasized the school’s role in nurturing his dreams and preparing him for public service. His family has deep ties to the institution, with his grandfather’s brother having served as principal in the 1970s.

Community Reflections

Former teachers and students shared their memories, highlighting the school’s tight-knit environment and cultural impact. Chris Touchton, a former band director, and Joseph McCoy, who taught academically gifted children, both recalled the school’s family-like atmosphere and its influence on students’ professional paths.

Mark Ferguson, a former physical education teacher, and Cassandra Jackson, a retired front office clerk, also attended the event. Ferguson reminisced about the sports activities, while Jackson emphasized the importance of building genuine relationships with students and their families.

Pinellas County School Board member Dawn Peters noted the school’s anniversary as a testament to the enduring value of public education in St. Petersburg. She praised the building’s renovations for preserving its historical character, ensuring future generations understand its legacy.

Original reporting: St. Pete Catalyst — read the source article.