SeattleChange
2011 E Sligh Ave, Tampa, FL
Sligh Middle School began as Sligh Avenue Junior High School in 1949. Originally designed to accommodate only six hundred students, the facility has undergone several additions and renovations over the past five decades in order to accommodate the school's growth. In 1968, when enrollment exceeded 1200 students, the school went on an extended day schedule.
Sligh became a seventh-grade center in 1971 as a result of the District’s plan to achieve racial integration. While some traditional junior high activities were dropped, new innovations were implemented, such as team teaching and intramural programs. The school mascot was changed from the Sligh Red Devil to the Sligh Cougar in order to represent an updated image. The school colors continued to be red and white.