Can a school building hold the weight of dreams? Here at the Frederick Douglass Academy for Young Men, it feels like it can. The Frederick Douglass Academy isn’t just bricks and mortar. It’s a living testament to the power of education and aspiration. This academy, dedicated to the iconic Frederick Douglass, stands as a beacon of hope for young men in Detroit. The Frederick Douglass Academy for Young Men is part of the Detroit Public Schools. It’s unique as Michigan’s only all-male public school.
The Frederick Douglass Academy for Young Men story begins in 2008. It was established following a 2006 Michigan Legislature bill. This bill permitted the creation of single-sex public schools. The academy found its home in the former Murray-Wright High School building. By 2012, it housed approximately 200 students. The academy wasn’t always smooth sailing. In March 2012, 50 students protested the removal of their principal. They also protested perceived inconsistencies among teachers. Activist Helen Moore joined them, along with school board members Reverend David Murray and LaMar Lemmons III. The protest led to the students’ suspension. Despite challenges, the Frederick Douglass Academy often met federal academic standards. This was a notable achievement, setting it apart from many other Detroit Public Schools high schools. However, in 2011, the school fell short of these standards in English language arts. This serves as a reminder of the ongoing efforts needed in education.
Beyond its academic mission, the Frederick Douglass Academy building also houses important Detroit Public Schools (DPS) offices. The DPS Office of Code of Conduct, Student Assistance and Support resides in the South Wing. Room 168 of the South Wing houses the DPS Office of Specialized Student Services (Special Education) Placement Center. The Frederick Douglass Academy building truly serves as a hub for multiple facets of the Detroit Public Schools system. The Frederick Douglass Academy for Young Men is more than just a school. It’s a testament to the belief in the potential of young men. The academy carries forward the legacy of its namesake, Frederick Douglass. It promotes manhood, altruism, courage, and scholarship. It’s a place where young men are empowered to achieve their dreams, one class at a time.