Harding University High School

Harry P. Harding University High School was established in 1992 as a Math, Science and Technology school in Charlotte, North Carolina. International Baccalaureate was added to the established program in 1995.The motto of the school has changed several times. It is currently: "Where Every Student Matters."Originally organized as "Harry P. Harding High School" in 1935, it remained an all-white school until 1957 when the school was integrated and later changed the name to Harding University High School of Math, Science, and Technology. The school now is known as just Harding University High School.MissionThe mission of the high school is to provide a rigorous academic study to prepare students beyond high school with real world experiences. It wants to prepare students to be active leaders, scholars, researchers, etc.Notable alumni Ray Durham (Major League Baseball 2nd Baseman) Anthony Hamilton (R&B Recording Artist) Ron Killings (professional wrestler) Walt Aikens, NFL player L. J. McCray, NFL player Dorothy Counts, Civil rights figureTim Thompson (1991 MLB Draft Cleveland Indians)Band of GoldThe Harding University High School Band of Gold, led by director Anthony Jones, made national coverage in January 2009 for their invitation to the 56th Inaugural Parade of President Barack Obama. Harding's was the only band chosen from North Carolina to march in the parade. The 110 person marching band made headlines for the fifty thousand dollars needed to travel to Washington, but were initially unable to raise the funds. Supporters across North Carolina made contributions to the band including Carolina Panthers wide receiver Steve Smith, who donated $25,000. Anthony S. Jones ended his twenty-year tenure as Director of Bands in 2015, moving on to serve as Director of Bands at Livingstone College.