Frederick A. Douglass High School
Home of the Bobcats
St. Claude Avenue, New Orleans • Bobcats since 1970
About the School
The school opened in 1940 as Francis T. Nicholls High. In 1970, Black students organized to replace the school’s Confederate “Rebel” symbols — and 75% of the student body voted to become the Bobcats. In 1990 the school was renamed for the abolitionist Frederick A. Douglass.
Today, on St. Claude Avenue, Douglass carries that legacy of student-led change forward as an A-rated school.
Today, on St. Claude Avenue, Douglass carries that legacy of student-led change forward as an A-rated school.
Quick Facts
Opened: 1940 (as Francis T. Nicholls High)
Renamed: Frederick A. Douglass, 1990
Mascot: Bobcats (since 1970)
Location: St. Claude Avenue
Status: Active charter high school
Renamed: Frederick A. Douglass, 1990
Mascot: Bobcats (since 1970)
Location: St. Claude Avenue
Status: Active charter high school
A Piece of Civil-Rights History
The 1970 student campaign to retire the school’s Confederate mascot — organized with community and NAACP support — is remembered as a landmark moment of youth-led change in New Orleans. The Bobcat has stood as a symbol of that victory ever since.
Reunion News & Alumni
Bobcats stay connected. Follow Douglass on social media for reunion dates and class news — and check back here for updates.
