Council Traditional School, formerly W. H. Council Elementary School, was built in 1910 as a "black" neighborhood school serving grades K-5. Council became Mobile's first elementary magnet school in 1989. The magnet school concept (an outgrowth of desegregation proceedings) was created to draw non-black students into the inner-city schools of Mobile. Students are randomly selected by computer--from those that apply--to insure racial balance. The factors dictating selection are: grade level, race, and whethe the student met promotion requirements the previous year.

The traditional school concept with uniform dress and a strong standard of conduct was implemented and maintained. Emphasis upon respect for self, for others, and respect for authority were designed to help develop high moral standards and foster citizenship.

Upon entering Council Traditional School, parents are required to sign a "Parent Contract" whereby they commit to support and uphold the philosophy of the school, comply with the Code of Conduct, maintain the standards of the Uniform Dress Code, and uphold the school's academic standards.