R. C. Hemphill Elementary School, is a first class progressive, innovative public school and the winner of the Title I Distinguished School Award embarked upon the task of defining its mission and vision by engaging collaboratively with stakeholders in a comprehensive, consensus-building process that involved students, parent, community partners, support staff, teachers, and administrators. 

The History of R. C. Hemphill dates back to the early 1870's. In 1871, a small frame school building was constructed on a 25'x45' lot. The build was later moved to Cotton Avenue and replaced with a three-room wooden schoolhouse. In 1902, a two-story block building was constructed with J.L. Lyles appointed as the first principal. This was the first unit of West End School. The mayor of West End, Robert Hemphill, later procured funds to complete the building, which was later renamed in his honor. The West End community was annexed by the City of Birmingham and R.C. Hemphill Elementary joined the Birmingham Public School System in 1910.

R. C. Hemphill Elementary School is a Pre-K through 5th grade public Title I school. We are a proud school that embraces our community, our students, and our parents. There are 24 classes from Pre-K through fifth grade. 

The faculty in our school are certified and highly qualified teachers. This includes a Principal and an Assistant Principal, who are both National Board Certified. We have a full-time Counselor who provides Social Emotional education, and three full-time Instructional Coaches that provide professional development and resources for our classroom teachers. This also includes instructors in Art, Speech, Music, Band, Technology, and Special Education. Support staff members are also a very significant part of our educational process. The Librarian supports literacy by providing a wide variety of resources and materials. Our Physical Education teacher provides a program that focuses on life fitness skills. Classroom teachers provide specialized intervention on a daily basis.  Tutors who are retired teachers and or hold valid teaching certificates are available for each grade band. 

Our school provides a wide range of support to our students through Academic, Social Emotional Development, Extended School Day, Girl Inc., STAIR, and Better Basics. There are 2 fully equipped computer labs with internet access. We are constantly seeking initiatives to promote a balanced and accelerated school-wide curriculum. 

Vision:  Birmingham City Schools will be a recognized leader in public education, meeting the needs of a diverse student population prepared to succeed in a global society.

Mission: The mission of the Birmingham City Schools is to guide all students to achieve excellence in a safe, secure and nurturing environment.

Our Partners in Education consist of local business organizations and individuals who provide financial resources and time to support our school.