Kavanaugh Academy operated from 1904-09, followed by Anderson Co. High School from 1909-20 and Kavanaugh High School from 1920-49. Rhoda C. Kavanaugh, A.B., served as founder and principal for 41 years. Under her direction, it ranked among the nation's foremost preparatory schools for Annapolis and West Point. Known as Mrs. "K," Rhoda C. Kavanaugh dedicated her life to teaching boys and girls and built the school into an institution recognized nationwide for the quality of its instruction, instilling in her students a hunger for and a pride in achievement.