In 1886 a four-room schoolhouse was constructed at this site and named for president James A. Garfield.

[5] Beard Elementary School moved to a different address and by 2004 became Roberto Clemente Learning Academy.

In the early morning hours of July 27, 2022, the building caught fire and sustained considerable damage.

[2] The entrances were topped with semi-circular arches, and the structure boasted a variety of window shapes and sizes.

The elaborate brickwork, multi-planed roofline, and the red brick tower conveyed the importance the community attached to public education.