HISTORY
OF
1937 - 1970

In September 1937, Northeast High School was officially opened by the Oklahoma City Board of Education. To initiate its beginning, 425 students signed a parchment denoting their "Charter" standings in the new school. A cornerstone was laid in front of the building containing this parchment, a bible, a flag, and several coins of the year.

These students developed many precedents that are currently traditions at NEHS. In 1939 the first Norseman Scroll, the school newspaper was published. They also established our 'Nordlys," the school yearbook, which means Northern Lights, was published in 1944, the school constitution was written, and several clubs were organized. On May 25, 1938, the commencement class of 15 seniors became the first graduates who took with them the memories of a loved school and a simple, but meaningful motto, "Filter to learn; go forth to serve. "

From 1937 - 1970, Northeast had five outstanding principals. The first principal was Mr. J. B.

Green, he served from 1937 until 1960. Mr. Lederle Scott succeeded him in 1960 and served two years ending in 1962. Mr. Lester Reed took over the office from September 1962 to November 1962. Beginning in November 1962, Mr. Jim Johnson had the responsibility of the principalship until October 1966. Serving from October 1966 until 1968, Mr. Leon Bruner, an outstanding educator who helped Northeast continue to be a great school. In 1968, Mr. Melvin Todd assumed the responsibility of leadership to promote and enhance student excellence. He served in this position until October 1970. Mr. Todd was the first African-American to serve as principal at Northeast. This era began the start of a new era at Northeast High School.

Throughout the sixties there were lots of racial turmoil throughout America. The Oklahoma City Public Schools also experienced the same turmoil, In 1968, because of the racial imbalances in the OKC Public School district, Northeast High School was changed to a Senior High School. Students in grades 9 - 12 at Harding High School were ordered to attend Northeast. NEHS students, grades 6 - 8 attended Harding which were changed to a middle school. This change presented some new challenges in which students had to overcome differences of cultural background, personalities and prejudices.

Students of the new "NEHS" rose above the challenge. New friends were made and students came together as one to promote academic excellence, school spirit and pride. The Class of 1970 was unique in that it began a new decade, After thirty years, we have maintained friendships in the new millennium.