The two-story brick building at 418 South Washington Street in Alexandria, Virginia, was built in 1888 as the Washington School, replacing an 1812 schoolhouse. It served Alexandria students for nearly 70 years before becoming the administrative headquarters of Alexandria Public Schools in 1955. The Alexandria Community YMCA purchased it in 1981, and it became home to the Campagna Center in 1993.

By the early 1880s, the 1812 schoolhouse was too small for the growing student population. At the time, it was the only school owned by Alexandria’s public school system, established in 1871. In April 1888, officials decided to demolish the old building and construct a larger school, budgeting between $10,000 and $11,000. The new design was modeled after the Amidon School in Washington, D.C., a two-story, eight-room brick structure completed in 1882.
The renovation project required approval from Alexandria’s Board of Architectural Review. It raised the first floor by 18 inches, creating a more functional basement and a new north-side courtyard for outdoor recreation. Other updates included replacing windows and sills, rebuilding brick walls and gates, and adding accessible entrances on both the west and east sides to meet code compliance.

The first floor was transformed into a vibrant program space, bringing Campagna Center’s signature programs under one roof for the first time. It features private meeting rooms, large and small classrooms for early childhood, school-age, and adult education programs, all enhanced by murals painted by renowned muralist Hamilton Glass. His work is characterized by architectural elements, bright vivid colors, and sharp lines, which convey energy and movement. The second floor now serves as the administrative hub of the Campagna Center, housing offices designed to foster collaboration and efficiency among staff. Additionally, the colors used throughout the renovation, including in the administrative spaces, are drawn from the Campagna Center’s branding and logo, reinforcing a cohesive and welcoming environment that visually connects the staff and program spaces.

The Campagna Center is a nonprofit dedicated to education and community support. Founded in 1945 as the Alexandria Community YWCA, it was later renamed in honor of Elizabeth Ann Campagna. The center provides early childhood education through Head Start, as well as before- and after-school programs for working families. It also supports immigrants with English language classes and youth mentorship.