History of Walker-Gamble Elementary
Walker-Gamble School was established in 1953 out of a desire for an improved ducational level for African American children in the area. There were several parochial schools in the area that provided the only means of education for African Americans. Mr. Silas Walker, Sr., chairman of the board for the parochial schools, along with Mrs. Walker and Mr. and Mrs. Charlie Gamble had a vision for a high school for the African American students.
The Walkers and the Gambles sold twelve acres of land in New Zion for the building of the school. When established, the school served students in kindergarten through twelfth grades. A very limited teaching staff taught many academic subjects, vocational courses, and some performing arts. In 1956, the second portion of Walker-Gamble was built. This building housed the gymnasium, an agricultural department, and a music room. At this time, federal and state funds were more available for educational programs and teachers. Night classes were also offered to adults in the community. When school integration was fully established in 1970, the school was renamed East Clarendon Middle School. In the the mid 1970's, the name Walker-Gamble was restored to honor the families who had the original vision for the school. At this point the school became the district's elementary school.
From the beginning, Walker-Gamble Elementary School served as an important part of the community and remains an integral part of the community to date. Walker-Gamble is a tightly woven community of learners. Many of the faculty and staff attended school here as children and live in the community today. It is often said that Walker-Gamble feels more like a family than a school. This family-like environment, we feel, is one of the keys to instructional success. Each member of our faculty strives to foster this feeling of family with each student and parent.
Walker-Gamble is unique in that we are the only elementary school in our district. Clarendon District Three consists of only three schools, Walker-Gamble, East Clarendon Middle, and East Clarendon High. There is a strong connection between these schools which helps build a strong community of learning. Family and community hold a place of high importance in our rural area. Community involvement gives opportunities to the students here that many students in other areas are not fortunate enough to receive.