The Clark County School District (CCSD) is celebrating Black History Month by sharing the inspiring stories of CCSD’s African-American namesakes who were pioneers in their profession and some of the District’s firsts in education.
Mabel Hoggard became the first licensed African-American educator in Nevada and in CCSD in 1946. She would continue teaching in the District for nearly 25 years before retiring.
During her years in Las Vegas, she was a community activist as well as a teacher. She was a member of the National Association of Advancement of Colored People (NAACP), helped organize the Westside Council, a coalition of school teachers and administrators, and worked to build community partnerships discussing solutions for problems in education.
Her impact on the school community furthered. She was instrumental in encouraging CCSD to begin a school lunch program. She and her husband helped start a “Project Savings” program with the Westside Federal Credit Union to encourage students to save and manage their money.
Mrs. Hoggard has been recognized by many for her work in education including earning a lifelong diploma as a master teacher and receiving the Distinguished Nevadan Service Award by the Nevada Board of Regents for her advancement of education and community service.
Bonanza School was renamed Mabel Hoggard School in 1974 to honor her dedicated service to the community.
