Principal’s Corner – Central High School: Helping Students To “Choose Their Best Life”

PANAMA CITY, FL – When you step onto the campus of Central High School (CHS), it quickly becomes clear that this is no ordinary Bay District School. With a small student body of around 115 to 130, CHS offers a close-knit, individualized learning environment that focuses not only on academic achievement but also on preparing students for life beyond the classroom.

Principal Jeremy Knapp describes CHS’s uniqueness as stemming from both its size and its mission. “What truly sets us apart,” Knapp explains, “is our drive to see students succeed not only in school but in life as well.”

At CHS, students aren’t defined by grade level but by their progress toward graduation. Each learner moves at their own pace, which means students can earn up to 10 credits per school year, an opportunity to catch up, get ahead, or even graduate early. This flexibility is especially beneficial for military families who may transfer mid-year due to a PCS move, allowing students to start fresh with new classes rather than feeling behind.

This year, CHS introduced new opportunities for students to earn National Center for Construction Education and Research (NCCER) certifications and OSHA 10 credentials. “We’re growing our career and technical offerings,” says Knapp. These programs open doors for students to step directly into the workforce with real-world skills.

Last year, more than one-third of CHS students graduated, a most remarkable achievement for such a small school community.

CHS prides itself on its strong support services for students with IEPs, 504 plans, or ELL (English-language learner) needs. Every classroom has two teachers, ensuring individualized attention and extra support. Students are given extended time and multiple attempts on assignments to master material at their own pace.

“We don’t do drama,” Knapp says. “Students don’t have to like each other, but they will learn to deal with each other because that is real life.”

Building community is essential. From indoor pickleball to pumpkin carving, butter-making, and vision boards, the school incorporates hands-on learning and fun into the daily schedule. Students celebrate every milestone, from finishing a course to graduating. Every victory is celebrated.

In the short term, Knapp hopes to see enrollment grow. “We have room for about 100 more students, and I’d love to see us busting at the seams,” he says. Long-term, his goal is to see CHS continue its academic success and expand even more CTE and construction-related programs, adding that he wants to see Central ranked #1 one day.

Knapp’s message to new families is simple: “Give us a chance. Come take a tour. I think you’ll be pleasantly surprised and instantly know where your student belongs.”

CHS students leave with more than a diploma; they leave with confidence and a sense of purpose. As Knapp puts it, “Success isn’t defined by your past. You truly have the opportunity to ‘Choose Your Best Life.’ It’s all up to you.”

Visit Central High School at https://baycentralhs.org/