Banta School

Banta School. . , The Banta School, built in five months at a cost of $80,000, held its first classes on September 2, 1924. Its architectural style, Collegiate Gothic, was widely used in the U.S. in the early 20th century for university and school buildings to lend a sense of substance and permanence to educational institutions., Founded as a kindergarten and elementary school, Banta School was named for William Henry Banta, 1846-1916. He was elected the first superintendent of Valparaiso City Schools in 1871, a position he held for 24 years. Under his leadership, the first Valparaiso High School was organized within the original Central School Building on Franklin Street. It was his dream and hope that Valparaiso would be a leader in school systems and facilities in Indiana., The Banta School closed in 1972 and was purchased by the Valpo Parks Department. It was re-opened in 1978 as a senior activity center. Today, the Banta School is operated by Valpo Parks and serves as a community center, hosting a variety of enrichment programs and activities for local seniors, the surrounding neighborhood and the greater community to enjoy.