History of Piedmont HS
Piedmont High School (PHS), located in Piedmont, California, has a rich and evolving history dating back to its founding in 1921. Created to meet the educational needs of the small, affluent city, the school has grown into one of the premier public high schools in the San Francisco Bay Area. Prior to PHS's establishment, students from Piedmont attended high schools in neighboring Oakland.
Founding and Early Years
The original campus was completed in 1921, with a classic architectural design that fit the city's upscale residential character. The school quickly became a central institution in the tight-knit Piedmont community, and its growth reflected the evolving educational needs of the area. By the 1930s, the campus had expanded, though a 1935 earthquake necessitated repairs and renovations. Additional waves of modernization followed in the ensuing decades to accommodate a growing student population.
Community Involvement and Support
Piedmont High School has benefited immensely from community support. In 1975, the Piedmont Educational Foundation (PEF) was founded to enhance the school’s offerings, raising millions of dollars annually to hire additional teachers, expand elective courses, and support extracurricular programs like performing arts and athletics. This has allowed PHS to maintain a private-school atmosphere, even as a public institution, with a focus on academic excellence and well-rounded student development.
Academic and Extracurricular Excellence
Piedmont High School is known for its strong college preparatory programs and Advanced Placement (AP) offerings. It was recognized as a National Blue Ribbon School in 1998, an award that celebrates overall academic excellence. The school consistently ranks as one of the top public high schools in California, with a high college matriculation rate. See more details in our PHS School Profile.
PHS is also known for its athletics and extracurricular activities, particularly in soccer, basketball, tennis, and performing arts. The Alan Harvey Theatre, named after a long-serving drama teacher, became a hub for the school’s renowned performing arts programs and serves as a key cultural venue within the community.
Campus Evolution and Modernization
The school has undergone multiple waves of expansion and modernization, particularly during the 1950s, 1960s, and 1970s, to meet the growing demand for more sophisticated educational facilities. Major renovations in 2019-2021 included the construction of updated science labs, performance spaces, and technology-enhanced classrooms. A bond measure passed in 2016 funded the most recent wave of improvements, solidifying the school’s standing as a modern educational institution.
Efforts Toward Diversity and Inclusivity
Though Piedmont High School has historically had a predominantly white student body, the demographics have shifted over time to reflect the broader diversity of the Bay Area. PHS has taken active steps to promote inclusivity, launching initiatives that address racial and gender disparities and focusing on fostering a respectful and equitable school culture. This has included curriculum changes and programs that emphasize diversity, equity, and inclusion.
Adapting to Modern Issues
In recent years, Piedmont High School has adapted to address the complex societal challenges facing modern students. Programs focused on mental health, emotional well-being, and social media awareness have been integrated into the school’s broader educational approach, reflecting a commitment to supporting students holistically, as well as adding a Wellness Center in 2007 whose services are available to all secondary (6-12th grades) students.
Political and Social Engagement
Throughout its history, PHS has been a microcosm of broader societal trends. During the 1960s and 1970s, the school saw increased student activism around civil rights and anti-war movements, echoing the political climate of the Bay Area. Today, it continues to reflect contemporary concerns through its evolving curriculum and student-led initiatives.
Conclusion
Piedmont High School has evolved from a small-town high school to a top-ranked public institution that balances academic rigor with a commitment to inclusivity, student well-being, and community involvement. From its strong academic programs to its robust extracurricular offerings, PHS has consistently adapted to the changing needs of its students and the surrounding community, all while maintaining a legacy of excellence in education.
from the Piedmont Historical Society Archives.