Blackshear Elementary Celebrates 135 Years of Fine Arts and Diversity in Austin

Celebrating a Legacy of Excellence: Blackshear Elementary at 135

On February 13, 2026, Blackshear Elementary School in Southeast Austin will proudly mark 135 years of service in fostering fine arts and community diversity. Established in 1891, this historic institution not only caters to academic growth but also plays a crucial role in preserving the cultural heritage of the Black community in Austin.

The History Behind the School

Blackshear, originally founded as School No. 3, was situated in the Gregorytown area, a freedom colony established by formerly enslaved individuals during the post-emancipation period. The school's establishment amid the tumultuous backdrop of Jim Crow and Reconstruction highlights its significance as a bastion of hope and resilience. As one of the few remaining freedom colony schools still operational today, its continued existence embodies the enduring spirit of the community it serves.

A Commitment to Fine Arts

Blackshear is notable for being Austin ISD's first fine arts elementary school, where students engage in dance, theatre, and music programs twice a week. These programs not only cultivate artistic expression but also reinforce the importance of creativity and critical thinking in the educational curriculum—skills essential for today’s world.

Notable Figures in Blackshear’s History

The legacy of influential figures such as Friendly R. Rice, who served as principal for 41 years, is etched into the foundation of the institution. Under Rice’s leadership, the school launched the city's first free hot lunch program during the Great Depression—a model that inspired current free lunch programs at Title I schools across Austin. This initiative is a testament to the school's commitment to community welfare.

Access to Knowledge: The Library’s Impact

Blackshear's library, established by Algerene M. Akins Craig in 1934, holds the distinction of being one of the first libraries in Texas dedicated to serving Black residents. This facility not only provided vital educational resources but also symbolized a refusal of the educational inequities prevalent during that era. Today, the library continues to serve as a critical resource for students and the community.

The Future of Blackshear Elementary

As part of a larger restructuring plan by Austin ISD, Blackshear is set to merge with Oak Springs Elementary, which will welcome students facing closures at their current campus. Such changes come amid declining enrollments, with both schools having fewer than 230 students each in the past school year. The district faces critical decisions about the school's future under Superintendent Matias Segura, who will determine whether to maintain the merged schools at the current location or transition to a newly modernized facility. An upgrade to the $47.6 million campus would undoubtedly provide enhanced educational opportunities but also presents challenges regarding community identity.

How You Can Celebrate

The 135th-anniversary event promises to be a celebration of both a rich heritage and the bright future ahead for Blackshear Elementary. Community members are encouraged to participate by RSVP-ing for the event, which is still in the planning stages. This will not only allow them to join in the festivities but also help solidify the bond between the school and the community it has nurtured for over a century.

Looking Ahead: Invitation to Join a Historical Moment

As we commemorate this milestone, it presents an opportunity to reflect on the institution’s impact and the role it continues to play in Southeast Austin. We invite parents, alumni, and all supporters of Blackshear Elementary to engage actively in the upcoming celebration and ongoing discussions about the school’s future. Join us in honoring 135 years of an educational legacy that has shaped lives and enriched the community.

For those interested in attending or aiding in event planning, updates can be found on the school's homecoming website. These moments of reflection and celebration remind us of the importance of educational institutions that serve as pillars of community strength and resilience.