Our school has a unique history. Formerly Francis Scott Key Junior High, the school was built in 1960, however relocated to what used to be an all girls’ catholic school called LaReine in 1995.  When the former principal of Francis Scott Key, Dr. Jesse L. Freeman Jr. died in 1994, the staff wanted to rename the school after him.  Dr. Freeman had been instrumental in the implementation of a science, mathematics, and technology center at Francis Scott Key and several other schools in the county.  In a compromise, educators decided to rename the school after Dr. Freeman and famous black surgeon, Dr. Charles Drew. 

Here are a few facts that you may not know about Doctor Charles R. Drew. This Washington, D.C. native developed his passion for medicine after his sister died from pandemic influenza. Drew was one of a few African-American surgeons.  He improved techniques for blood storage, transfusions, developed large-scale blood banks during World War II, and spoke out against racial segregation in blood donations. His life was cut short when he died from injuries he sustained in a car accident while traveling in North Carolina. It is an urban legend that Drew was denied care by a nearby hospital because of the color of his skin and bled to death.  This claim was discounted by one of the other black doctors who were hurt in the crash who says that all of the victims received the very best care at the hospital.