William M. Raines High School was historically the first black high
school in Jacksonville. The school was named after Mr. William Marion Raines,
who was both prominent
and respected in the Jacksonville area. Mr. Raines was principal of Matthew Gilbert Junior-Senior High
School for approximately 12
years. His educational background included studying at Florida Memorial
College, Edward Waters College, Florida A & M. University, Hampton
Institute and Columbia University.
The construction of W. M. Raines High
School began in 1965 and within that same year, the school opened its
doors. Upon its opening, numerous students from Northwestern High School
(as it was known then) came to Raines. The band director, Mr. Julian
White, along with the French classes, arranged the
music for the school song from the Canadian National Anthem. The colors
cardinal red and silver gray were adopted as the school's colors and the
faculty and staff agreed on "Knowledge is Power" as the school's motto. The class of 1966 was the
first class to set the foundation of the school’s rich 'ichi bon' (#1)
tradition of spirit, pride and excellence.
Raines' first principal, Dr. Andrew
Robinson, was principal until 1970. The school's science wing was named
in his honor. The following educators have been principals of Raines: Dr. Ezekiel Bryant (1970-1972), Mr. Kernaa
McFarlin (1972-1978), Mr. Ike James (1978-1979), Mr. Jimmie A. Johnson (1979-1995), Dr. Milton Threadcraft
(1995-1997), Dr. Roy Mitchell (1997-2002), and Mrs. Carol Daniels (2002
- 2006). Currently, our principal is Mrs. Nongongoma Majova-Seane.
Achievements
Our faculty and staff have been
major contributors to the success of Raines' students. Together, we have
excelled in all facets of our school and community. Academic
accomplishments have brought us much acclaim as we made our mark in
academic competitions
throughout
the nation. Many of our students further their education by attending
college.
Additionally, outstanding athletes have brought us fame on both the school and
professional levels. Approximately thirty athletes have gone on to join
professional teams. The varsity boys basketball team won
the state championships in 1991, 2003 and 2004. Both the football and track teams
were the state champs in 1998. These two teams, football and track, have
consistently had winning records. Many of our student
athletes have earned much recognition and valuable college scholarships.
The
band, chorus, JROTC, clubs and other extracurricular activities continue
to bring home first place awards. Built on a rich
tradition of pride and excellence, Raines has managed to maintain its
tradition of winning and achieving.
Now that we are in the 21st century,
Raines continues to be a school dedicated to its mission
of preparing all students in all areas for a productive future.