Listen to the story of a building that has transformed over the years. This is the Hyde Park Education Complex. Once known as Hyde Park High School it has a rich and complex history.
Hyde Park High School first opened its doors in 1869. The town of Hyde Park had just been founded one year prior. Initially the school offered two distinct paths. Students could choose a four-year classical program or a two-year business course.
For many years Hyde Park High School educated young men and women separately. Only in their senior year did they learn together. The school grew in popularity. By 1967 enrollment reached 1700 students. The headmaster even reported a waiting list of 250.
The 1970s brought challenging times. Racial tensions increased at the school. In January 1970 a fight at a bus stop led to violence. Graffiti appeared on the school steps. Following this incident half the students were absent. Court-ordered desegregation in 1974 doubled the black student population. Racial violence disrupted classes. A student stabbing led to multiple hospitalizations. The Boston Police Tactical Force was deployed. Even the National Guard was summoned. The school installed a magnetometer to scan students. It was borrowed from United Airlines.
These events left a lasting mark on Hyde Park High School. Once called a country club it faced claims of racism and violence. It struggled academically. Closure was a constant threat.
In the midst of these struggles Another Course to College found a temporary home here. It held classes in the basement from 1989 to 1993.
Hyde Park High School ceased operations after the 2004-2005 school year. Superintendent Thomas Payzant implemented a new plan. He created smaller schools within the existing structure. This was intended to improve education and attendance. The facility was renamed the Hyde Park Education Complex.
In 2005 the Community Academy of Science and Health opened. The Engineering School also opened as did the Social Justice Academy. By 2011 the Engineering School and Social Justice Academy closed. The Community Academy of Science and Health moved to Dorchester. The building stood empty for the first time in 82 years.
But the story of the Hyde Park Education Complex did not end there. In 2012 Boston Community Leadership Academy and New Mission High School moved in. Starting in 2020 the building housed only New Mission High School.
The Hyde Park Education Complex has been more than just a school. In his TV series economist Milton Friedman used the school as an example. He highlighted the metal detectors and police presence.
Throughout its history the school has occupied several locations. From 1928 onward it was located at 655 Metropolitan Avenue. The building is accessible via the MBTA bus 32 from Forest Hills.
Many notable individuals attended Hyde Park High School. William Monroe Trotter founded the Boston Guardian newspaper. Robert Frederick Drinan became a congressman. Russell Holmes is a Massachusetts State Representative.
The Hyde Park Education Complex stands as a testament to change. It reflects the challenges and triumphs of education in Boston. It reminds us that schools are more than just buildings. They are centers of community and hope.