Overbrook High preps to celebrate its 100th birthday

OVERBROOK (KYW Newsradio) — In 1924, the cornerstone for Overbrook High School was laid, as construction on the then-new school began. It would open its doors two years later.

School leaders are not only recognizing the laying of the cornerstone this year, but also planning for the big centennial in 2026.

Patricia Mathis, a graduate of Overbrook in 1972 and president of the alumni association, said the celebration will include fundraisers for scholarships and setting up a mentorship program for students.

“The biggest project that we want to do is to implement this mentoring program, because we feel that some of the things are missing in terms of education where students have a purpose in going to school,” she said.
She also pointed to the long history of prominent people to graduate from Overbrook, including Will Smith and Wilt Chamberlain.

Mathis herself returned to Overbrook for 25 years as a teacher, and said the school has built a tight-knit community over the generations.

“So we have to celebrate. It’s a milestone,” she said.