A landmark in the Pine Ridge community was lost late Thursday night, January 22, as fire destroyed the main school building on the Dessie Scott campus. While the historic structure is considered a total loss, fire officials confirmed that the campus dormitories were spared and no injuries were reported. The site, which originally housed the Alvan Drew School beginning in 1913, has served as a center for education and child welfare in Wolfe County for over a century.
Wolfe County Schools Superintendent Kenny Bell, whose career is deeply rooted in the facility, reflected on the personal and historical significance of the site. Bell began his career there in 1992 as the first public school teacher at Dessie Scott, eventually serving 15 years as a teacher and Principal. “I am saddened by the loss of this landmark and for the loss and disruptions it will cause to the children we serve,” Bell stated.
The campus gained widespread recognition in 1950 when Louise Winchip, affectionately known as “Mrs. Chip,” moved her orphanage to the site. Under her guidance, thousands of children were raised on the ridge, and her local impact was so significant that she eventually served as an Olympic torchbearer. Today, the facility continues its mission through a collaborative partnership between Wolfe County Schools and Buckhorn Children and Family Services to provide specialized care and education to students.
Despite the physical loss of the school building, the program remains active under the direction of Principal Robert Creech. The site was recently nominated for “distinguished program” status, a designation that is currently under review. District leaders and Buckhorn officials are now working to minimize service disruptions for the children while maintaining the long-standing standard of care established at the Pine Ridge campus
