Construction Begins Soon for New Second Ward High School in Charlotte

CHARLOTTE, N.C. — The Charlotte-Mecklenburg Schools district announced plans for the new Second Ward High School, with construction set to begin in early 2026. This school will be built on the site of the former Metro School and is designed to focus on health curriculum.

The original Second Ward High School, which opened in 1923, served as the only high school for Black students in Charlotte. It was located in the Brooklyn neighborhood, an area rich in resources for the Black community. However, the first wave of urban renewal in Charlotte razed this neighborhood, leaving only the Second Ward gymnasium behind.

Currently, the demolition of the Metro School is nearing completion, and the site is being prepared for the new building. The school is anticipated to open in August 2028 and will feature classrooms specifically designed for a health-focused curriculum. The project is being managed by Rodgers Builders, Inc. in collaboration with Walter B. Davis Company, while architectural services are provided by LS3P Associates.

Supporters of the project express excitement about reviving the historical significance of Second Ward High School and providing updated facilities for future generations of students. “It’s been a long time coming for this community,” said Charlotte-Mecklenburg School Board Chair, Elyse Dashew. “This school will honor its legacy while offering state-of-the-art educational opportunities.”