Baltimore City Public Schools (City Schools) welcomed students, families, staff, community members, elected officials, and project partners to celebrate the completion of the Frederick Douglass High School and Joseph C. Briscoe Academy building renovations.
Construction on the approximately 249,000-square-foot project began in July 2024 and was completed in August 2026. The $118 million investment modernizes both schools with learning environments designed to support academic achievement, career and technical education, athletics, the arts, and student wellness.
City Schools CEO Dr. Jermaine Dawson joined U.S. Congressman Kweisi Mfume, Maryland Comptroller Brooke Lierman, State Senator Antonio Hayes, State Delegate Marion Amprey, Mayor Brandon Scott, Baltimore City Council President Zeke Cohen, Councilman James Torrence and Baltimore City Board of School Commissioners Chair Robert Salley.
Among the distinguished speakers was Thurgood Marshall Foundation Executive Director Cecilia Marshall, granddaughter of Thurgood Marshall, the pioneering civil rights attorney and first Black U.S. Supreme Court justice. Justice Marshall graduated from Frederick Douglass High School, then known as the Colored High and Training School, in 1923. Ms. Marshall's attendance honored her grandfather's enduring legacy and highlighted the school's historic role as a cornerstone of educational excellence and opportunity in Baltimore.
"This ribbon cutting represents far more than the completion of a renovation project. It represents opportunity, growth, and a renewed investment in our students' future," said Dr. Jermaine Dawson, City Schools CEO. "As we continue building a school system where every student graduates career ready, future ready, and world ready, we are creating learning environments that inspire excellence and support every child's success."
A school and community milestone
Founded in 1883 for African American students, Frederick Douglass High School is one of the nation's oldest high schools. Joseph C. Briscoe Academy is named for a dedicated Baltimore educator, principal, and civil rights advocate who expanded educational and vocational opportunities for Black students during segregation. Together, the newly renovated campus honors that legacy while providing modern spaces designed to meet the needs of today's students and future generations.
"Walking into this new building, with its rich history, represents a fresh start
and a new era of excellence for our students," said Joseph C. Briscoe Academy Principal Tamika R. Daniels.
"Our school community is overjoyed to offer our deserving students the opportunity to learn in such an incredible facility," said Dr. David Verdi, principal of Frederick Douglass High School.
The ribbon-cutting celebration featured student performances, remarks from district and elected leaders, a ceremonial ribbon cutting, building tours, and alumni recognition.