Editor’s Note: This is part three of a four-part series.
NORTH LITTLE ROCK, AR — Organized, formal education for African-Americans in North Little Rock began as early as 1900. Noteworthy academic progress was continuing while facilities improvements were also experienced during the decades. Initially, elementary grades were the focus of the system. However, in 1911 high school courses were added. The school’s name changed several times during this developing stage. Another construction project was completed in 1928 and the school’s name was changed to Scipio Africanus Jones. Still improving, Scipio A. Jones moved into a new building at Tenth and Cedar Streets in 1952. Jones was officially classified as a Junior and Senior High School housing grades seven through twelve. The elementary classes remained at their old location, and the school also received a name change.
Scipio A. Jones was a beacon of light for the African-American community in North Little Rock. Although during the beginning years there were several principals, all living former students remember – Mr. Eliza H. Hunter. According to sources, Hunter joined the staff in 1935. His tenure as principal was from 1942 until 1970.
The philosophical views that made up the Jones High institution were the collective views of the Jones High staff. Mrs. V. R. Robinson was one teacher in whose name a scholarship has been established by alumni. Other staff members were Mr. E. R. Brittnum and Jones graduate Coach Andrew Beavers. We cannot mention all the names, but we are compelled to randomly mention a few. Other prominent staff were Coach Cledic Jackson, Mr. Willie A. Vincent, and Jones graduate Coach Curtis Clay. The commitment of the staff was supported by their willing agreement to prepare themselves as thoroughly as possible. Also they were dedicated and committed to the students. On the staff over the years were Mrs. A. E. Eskridge, Mrs. Geraldine C. Kay, and Mr. Frank J. Boyle. Boyle was the band director from 1958 through 1970. He inherited a group that was already popular on campus and developed “The Marching One Hundred,” known throughout the state.
The school colors were navy blue and gold and the mascot was the “Mighty” Dragon. S. A. Jones High nurtured its students and prepared them to meet the challenges of life. Many may wonder what a school needs to produce successful students. The staff at Jones instinctively developed curiosity in the minds of their students, then helped incubate it with love and discipline (self-esteem). That curiosity and encouragement created a burning thirst for knowledge. In their quest to quench that thirst, students were motivated to work to achieve that knowledge. Knowledge is the first step toward success. The teachers and staff agreeably adhered to the curriculum mandated by the state. They also aggressively and willingly improvised to meet the needs of the students. High expectations of all students were a daily reality. Teaching the students was not just a means to maintain a job. It was also a mission to change and improve lives.
As far back as the forties and fifties, Jones’ graduates were leaving their mark in the military and also becoming educators. In the fifties and sixties, several alumni of Jones were playing in the NBA and the NFL. An untold number of graduates became successful business people or embarked on governmental careers.
I am a teacher at North Little Rock High School who has students researching Scipio A Jones High School. My students would like to contact Raymond Smith to ask him a few questions about this important part of our history. I believe I worked with Mr. Smith for many years before his retirement. If this is possible, they would be happy to visit with him. You or he may contact me using the information attached. Thank you!