The foundation of the Pride of Roosevelt
Principal MacFarlane came to Gary after completing graduate work at Columbia University. His style was to be very involved in the educational instructions of the students. He also held classes for parents and encouraged parents to attend after school hours.
Mr. MacFarlane resigned in June of 1933. In August of 1933 the high school section of East Pulaski School, (secondary Negro school) was united with Roosevelt. Mr. H. Theo Tatum was chosen to be principal of be Roosevelt High School. East Pulaski; under the leadership of Mr. Tatum, was said to have the best run school in the city, even with substandard facility and second hand materials. Mr. Tatum continued the structure and culture that was now set in place; followed and perpetuated for years to come. Coaches J.D. Smith and Louis “BO” Mallard also moved over to Roosevelt, they too became successful long term staffers at Roosevelt.