School History

History of Big Walnut Early Learning Center

Established as a high school: 1951  

Converted to Early Learning Center: 2026

A New Beginning in a Historic Space

The Big Walnut Local School District has always been a district shaped by growth, adaptation, and a deep connection to its community. Nowhere is that more evident than at 105 Baughman Street, a building that has continuously evolved to meet the needs of Big Walnut students for more than 70 years.

From High School to a Hub of Learning

Big Walnut Local School District was formed in January 1950 through the consolidation of the Galena and Sunbury school districts. The newly unified district quickly turned its attention to building a centralized high school on 56 acres of land just south of Sunbury. That vision became reality when ground was broken on October 27, 1950, and Big Walnut High School opened its doors in 1951 at 105 Baughman Street.

The original building was considered modern for its time, featuring science labs, shop areas, vocational agriculture space, and one of the finest gymnasiums in the county. It briefly housed students in grades 8 through 12, serving as the educational heart of the newly formed district.

Over the years, the building expanded and adapted. Additions in 1963 doubled its size, while modular classrooms were added in the early 1970s to accommodate growing enrollment. By 1991, when a new high school facility opened, the Baughman Street building transitioned into Big Walnut Middle School following significant renovations.

A Building That Grows With Its Community

For decades, 105 Baughman Street has remained a constant presence in the Big Walnut community, evolving alongside the district it serves. From high school students preparing for graduation to middle school students navigating their early adolescent years, generations of learners have walked its halls.

The building has never stood still. Each transformation has reflected the district’s commitment to meeting students where they are and preparing for what comes next.

A New Chapter: The Early Learning Center

In the 2026–2027 school year, the building begins its next chapter as the new home of the Big Walnut Early Learning Center.

Previously located on Harrison Street, the Early Learning Center has played a vital role in supporting Big Walnut’s youngest learners. The move to Baughman Street represents both an expansion of opportunity and a continuation of the building’s legacy as a place of firsts.

Extensive renovations have prepared the space to meet the unique needs of early childhood education, creating an environment designed for exploration, growth, and development. With additional classroom space and room for future expansion, the new location allows the program to grow alongside the community it serves.

Honoring the Past, Building the Future

The story of 105 Baughman Street is one of reinvention. What began as the district’s first high school has become a cornerstone of education across generations.

Now, as it welcomes its youngest learners, the building comes full circle. Where students once prepared to leave Big Walnut and step into the world, new students will now take their very first steps into education.

The walls may be familiar, but the voices inside them are just beginning their journey.

And in Big Walnut, every great journey starts with a strong foundation.

---

Special thanks to the Big Walnut Area Historical Society for providing valuable information and historical pictures that made this page possible.