What started as a small neighborhood school has grown into a landmark on Houston’s East End. For generations of families, many with immigrant roots, Milby has been a place where small dreams became big ones.
If anyone knows Milby High School, it’s Dr. Don Williams. The historian and teacher has likely forgotten more about the school than most people will ever know, including the story behind its name.
“Charles Milby was not only a member of the community. He was a philanthropist, he had a lot of property and supported everybody,” Williams said.
Williams attended Milby in the 1980s, then returned to teach African American Studies. He’s also a Texas historian, giving him a unique perspective on the school’s long and layered past dating back to it’s opening on March 28, 1926.
“It was still segregated, up until the 65/66 school year. And originally it was just whites and Hispanics, yes,” Williams said.
Williams also points out what makes Milby stand out among Houston Independent School District campuses.
“It’s the only high school in HISD that has the same name and the same location,” he said.
While Milby has seen its share of ups and downs, things appear to be heading in the right direction, thanks in large part to Principal Ruth Peña, who has led the campus for eight years. Peña is a Milby graduate herself, and that connection runs deep throughout her staff.
“I graduated here from Milby in 1993, over 60 percent of my staff is Milby alum, so that makes a big difference. You’ve been there, done that, you know the neighborhood,” Peña said.
When Peña first arrived, the campus carried a failing grade.
“When I first got here Milby was an F-rated campus,” she said.
On Friday, Milby holds an A rating, and Peña is quick to credit her students, teachers, and staff for that turnaround.
“Over 98 percent of our campus is minority, so what we want to do is shoot for excellence. We want to make sure our kids are coming out of this campus well educated, ready for the workforce, ready for college,” Peña said.
Milby holds a special place in many hearts.
Saturday the school, staff, and alumni will celebrate it’s 100 years.
The Festivities begin at 9:30 a.m. with a re-enactment of the original march from the old school building to the current campus. ‘
The celebration continues throughout the day, and everyone is welcome to attend.
For more information you can visit: Centennial Celebration | Milby Alumni