Hatcher School grew out of the dreams and sacrifices of the community. Black children in Centre had previously had to travel to Cedar Bluff to attend school. The state purchased land, and citizens of the community provided funding and labor. Mr. Donald H. Starr, Sr. was the first principal. Students walked to school until buses were purchased in 1956, after which Black students from across the county were transported to Hatcher School. Hatcher closed in 1969 because of desegregation.