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)