SKCTC Announces Donation of Former Cumberland High School Property to City

Published on Aug 24, 2026

Southeast Kentucky Community and Technical College (SKCTC) has announced the donation of the former Cumberland High School (CHS) property to the City of Cumberland, creating future opportunities for the historic site to once again serve the community. As part of the agreement, the City signed an agreement with Harlan County Schools to ensure continued use of the softball field for school activities.

As the property transitions to city ownership, SKCTC is also preserving the school's legacy through the creation of a dedicated Cumberland High School tribute room on the college’s campus. The room will feature trophies, signage, photographs, and other memorabilia from the Sue Godbey Appalachian Archives at SKCTC and private donations. The college plans to dedicate the room during this year's Swappin' Meetin' festival on Saturday, Sept. 18, at 1 p.m.

“We want to ensure that the spirit of CHS lives on,” said SKCTC Chancellor Dr. Lee Harrison. “This tribute will celebrate the generations who made Cumberland High School such an important part of our region. It reflects our commitment to preserving community heritage while supporting opportunities for the future.”

Built in 1947 and expanded in 1960 and 1975, the former high school has long stood as a symbol of pride for the Cumberland community.

Following the school’s closure in 2008, SKCTC acquired the property and explored several possibilities to repurpose the facility in ways that would benefit Cumberland and the broader region. These efforts included an extensive feasibility study and two grant-funded initiatives focused on establishing a regional recovery and workforce training center. However, the combined challenges of redevelopment costs and the COVID-19 pandemic prevented those plans from moving forward.

“We understand the deep history and emotional connection this facility holds, and we regret that the property has remained unused,” said Harrison. “Donating it to the City gives Cumberland the opportunity to pursue new possibilities while ensuring the site remains a local asset.”

Cumberland Mayor Charles Raleigh said the city plans to pursue funding opportunities to revitalize portions of the former CHS facility and explore new uses that would benefit the community.

“The City and I have many dreams for the high school building and there are so many possibilities,” said Raleigh. “It could be used for business use, a hotel, ambulance services, or potentially moving the city hall to that location. The future will depend on available funding and community support, but we are excited to begin exploring what comes next for this important landmark.”

Harlan County Schools Superintendent Brett W. Johnson expressed appreciation for the agreement that preserves access to the softball field.

“We are grateful for the commitment demonstrated by both SKCTC and the City of Cumberland to preserving continued access to these fields for Harlan County Public Schools and our students,” Johnson said. “These facilities are a valuable asset to our students and the broader community, providing opportunities to participate in athletics while developing teamwork, leadership, school spirit, and pride.”