Centennial was established in 1976, just as the nation celebrated its 200^th anniversary. After spending five weeks at Cutler Ridge Junior High working double shifts, it was a relief when Centennial Junior High opened its doors for the first time. On October 6, 1976, everyone was delighted to enter a new air-conditioned school costing approximately four million dollars.

   The students came from four surrounding elementary schools, which included: Air Base, Gulfstream, Pine Villa, and Whispering Pines. The total enrollment in 1976 included 1250 students: 438 seventh graders, 420 eighth graders, and 402 ninth graders. The ethnic population was 80% white and 20% black. Bus service was provided for 66% of the students. 26% of the students received free or reduced lunch.

   Faculty and Staff members included: 58 teachers, 4 administrators, 2 media specialists, 4 counselors, 9 custodians, (?) clerical, and 13 food service personnel. The first principal was Mr. Quaranta, and the first assistant principals were Mr. Henderson, Mr. Poole, and Mr. Woodward.

   As time passed we evolved, now we are Centennial Middle School serving students in grades six through eight. Our current principal is Ms. Yamila Carballo. Our assistant principals are Mrs. Audain and Mr. Chain. Our most recent enrollment varied at 900 to 999 students. The ethnic population consists of nearly 41% black, 45% Hispanic, 12% white, and less than 2% other.

                                  Committed To The Future

The Centennial staff is dedicated to helping students develop the necessary academic and social skills, responsibilities, and attitudes that will ensure their continued educational growth and self-maturation. Realizing that middle school students are in a state of emotional and physical changes, we center our academic framework around helping them recognize their ability to improve and succeed. Their success is ensured by our commitment to "educational excellence in a caring environment."

Our commitment began with an award winning project on the Everglades which evolved into the cultivation of a one acre hammock of native plants and trees, representing four different habitats in South Florida. This biome is an ongoing effort of students, parents, and community volunteers. In addition to focusing their efforts on this living laboratory, Centennial students participate in community environmental clean-up projects. Through school-wide contests and recycling programs, Centennial students are constantly fostering an awareness of the land and sea around them.