History of Asa Philip Randolph Academies of Technology

Founded in 1977, A. Philip Randolph Academies of Technology has since become the foremost Career & College Preparatory Magnet school in Duval County. Operating originally as the Northside Skills Center, A. Philip Randolph Academies of Technology offered students the opportunity to enroll in 18 career programs and established a lasting and mutually beneficial place in the Jacksonville community.

In 1980, Reverend Jesse Jackson was the keynote speaker for the standing-room-only dedication ceremony that officially renamed the school after the father of the Civil Rights Movement, Asa Philip Randolph. A native of Jacksonville and a Valedictorian of the Cookman Institute, Randolph was an avid reader and early activist for civil rights. In 1925, Randolph organized the Brotherhood of Sleeping Car Porters, which was the first successful trade union of African-American workers in the United States. This was the result of over ten years of effort. Randolph’s greatest dream was realized in 1963 when, after over 20 years of calling for a march on Washington D.C., the march finally occurred and Dr. Martin Luther King presented his historic “I Have A Dream” speech. Randolph dedicated his life to civil rights, served as president of the AFL-CIO and founded the Negro American Labor Council. Randolph continued his mission until his death in 1979.

In honor of its namesake, A. Philip Randolph Academies of Technology has offered career opportunities and quality education to students from all walks of life. The school has awarded over 4000 career certificates to students who are currently employed by the military, local businesses, and a myriad of other industries. Having won over 1000 regional, state, and national awards at both career and leadership events, A. Philip Randolph Academies of Technology still leads the way in career and technical education while simultaneously providing the opportunity for rigorous academic achievement. A truly unique concept in the world of education, A. Philip Randolph Academies of Technology empowers students with a college-preparatory education and life-enriching career certifications through five different academies.

The school looks back on its history with pride and hopes to continue its mission for many years to come.