Central High School is a public high school (grades 9-12) in Memphis, Tennessee, United States. Since it was founded in the early 1900s and is considered the first high school in Memphis; Central is often called "THE" High School. It is a part of the Shelby County Optional School system where it is recognized as a school specializing in college preparatory programs. The principal is Gregory McCullough. Central's mascot is the Warrior and the school colors are green and gold. For recognition as the successor to Memphis High School, the first high school in Memphis, Central High's football team, rather than having artwork denoting the "Warrior" mascot, simply has a capital "H", for THE High School History Central High was built in 1911 by the Memphis Board of Education, when the current building was erected on Raleigh Avenue, now called Bellevue Blvd. It is in the Jacobean Revival architecture style, with corner pavilions on the west facade, and rusticated surrounds on the upper story windows. Though there have been additions, the school retains is architectural integrity. Central High's building was added to the National Register of Historic Places on September 17, 1982. Academics Central High School offers a traditional program of academics as well as an Optional College Preparatory Program. Honors and Advanced Placement courses are offered. Demographics In 2014, 405 students received diplomas. ACT composite scores for the 2014-2015 school year were 18.1 vs 19.8 for the state and 21.1 national. Extra-curricular activities, clubs and organizations Central High School has clubs in foreign language, volunteer service, and honor societies. Central's extracurricular activities include: Concert Choir Mixed Chorale Warrior Band Jazz Band Orchestra Color Guard (Flag Girls) Cheerleading Dance Team Baseball Softball Swim Team Golf Football Girls' Soccer Boys' Soccer Volleyball Boys' Cross Country Girls' Cross Country Boys' Track Girls' Track Lady Warriors Basketball Warriors Basketball Student Council Future Business Leaders of America Youth Crusaders Club Newspaper Staff Yearbook Staff Broadcasting/Media Concepts French Club Spanish Club Latin Club DECA Bowling JROTC Mu Alpha Theta National Honor Society International Club National English Honor Society Mock Trial Team Key Club Knowledge Bowl Team Chess Club GSA (Gender Sexuality Alliance) Debate Team E warriors(Gaming club) Notable alumni Avron Fogelman - Memphis businessman Alex Chilton - musician of the Box Tops – “The Letter” - would have been CHS '69, but dropped out when The Letter became a hit Art Tait - American football