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Prior to integration of schools in 1970, Guinyard-Butler Middle School was originally Barnwell’s school for colored people. The existing building on Allen Street was built in 1953 specifically for the colored children of Barnwell 45.
In Barnwell, the public school for colored people was created and organized under Reverend Watson. Professor Butler served as the second principal and later the school was named in his honor. Professor Solomon A. Guinyard served as principal from 1930 until school integration in 1970. In 1967, Butler School was renamed Guinyard-Butler School in honor of Professor Guinyard’s 37 years as principal.
After the integration of schools in 1970, the school on Allen street was named Guinyard-Butler Middle school and housed grades 6-8 until the opening of Barnwell Elementary School in 2005. Currently, Guinyard-Butler Middle School is home to grades 7-8 and boasts an enrollment of approximately 350 students.
GBMS offers opportunities for students to participate in multiple academic opportunities during school hours and after school through the athletics and DIG after-school program. Students have the opportunity to participate in band, take Spanish for high school credit, computer science, and STEM in addition to all core academic subjects that are taught by highly qualified and certified instructors. GBMS is highly involved in community service through organizations such as Student Council, Jr. Beta Club, and National Jr. Honor Society students are encouraged to make a difference by serving their community.
GBMS is proud of the history and heritage of our school and community.
