Public Education in Anna

The earliest citizens of Anna were determined that their children should have the best educational opportunities possible. Founded in 1883 with a population of twenty, Anna was named for the daughter of a Houston & Texas Central Railroad official. In 1885, the town sought and was granted Collin County School District Number 23. Former teacher and future mayor J.L. Greer deeded a 2.5 acre tract of land on this site for $125. A small frame building served as a school until 1909, when the school district became one of very few incorporated school districts in Collin County. In keeping with their new status, the citizens erected a more visionary three story edifice. The younger students were taught in small wooden buildings by 1939. Since enrollment had reached 350, a new building, W.L. Roper High School, was opened in honor of a longtime educator who served the schools from early in the century until 1943 as principal and superintendent. His devotion inspired two former students, who followed in his footsteps. A new elementary school went up in 1974; a new high school was built in 1987 and includes a cafetorium, library, offices, and a gymnasium. The community and its educational system continue to grow. (1997)

Public Education in Anna is a historical marker in Anna, Collin County, dedicated in 1997. It is one of 193 historical markers documented in Collin County in the Texas Historical Commission Atlas, among 345 historic sites cataloged across the county.

The site sits at 33.3456, -96.5485 near Anna. The nearest cataloged historic site is First Christian Church of Anna (historical marker), about 0.2 miles away. Others within a short drive include Sherley, A. & Bro. Hardware Store, Slater Cemetery, and Lair Cemetery.

This record corresponds to Texas Historical Commission Atlas #5507014289. Use the map below for its exact position and turn-by-turn directions.