Welcome to Central Cabarrus High School

Central Cabarrus High School is located in Concord, North Carolina, and proudly serves approximately 1,300 students. Nearly 130 dedicated teachers and staff members work each day to uphold high academic standards while fostering a supportive and engaging learning environment.

At Central Cabarrus, student success is a shared commitment. Our families, faculty, staff, and community partners work collaboratively to celebrate achievement and support the growth of every Viking.

Our History

Central Cabarrus High School opened its doors in 1966 following the consolidation of three area schools: Bethel, Harrisburg, and Hartsell. The newly formed school welcomed 850 students and 45 teachers in its inaugural year.

A defining feature of the campus was the C.A. Furr Planetarium—the only school-based planetarium in North Carolina at the time. During an era captivated by the space race, Central proudly offered students a truly “space-age” learning experience.

Mr. M.L. Barnes, for whom the school’s theatre is named, served as the first principal. Under the district leadership of Superintendent Jay M. Robinson and Assistant Superintendent Joseph N. Fries, Central quickly established traditions of excellence. Early faculty members and coaches—including head football coach Lloyd “Dink” Jordan, basketball coaches Earl Mason and Georgia Roberson, and track coach Gary “Chromedome” Drinnen—helped shape the school’s strong athletic foundation.

The school’s first year also marked the launch of lasting traditions in academics and the arts. The Centarune yearbook and The Norlande school newspaper began publication. The library, led by Mr. Euell Gary Brady, opened with 8,000 books and 125 periodicals. Central’s first theatrical production, Dear Ruth, was directed by Mrs. Marjorie Hudson. The inaugural band, directed by Neil Wilson, featured 40 members, and Mr. David Stantz led the first chorus program.

Growth and Tradition

Since 1966, Central Cabarrus has experienced tremendous growth. Campus expansions have included an additional wing in 1979, a science wing in 1998, and an auxiliary gym in 2003—each reflecting the school’s commitment to evolving with the needs of its students.

Today, Central has graduated generations of proud Vikings. Our community continues to build upon a legacy of academic achievement, athletic success, artistic excellence, and enduring traditions. Vikings—past and present—share a deep pride in calling Central Cabarrus home.