Established in 1895 Glen Ridge High School stands proudly. It initially served students in grades 9-12. Glen Ridge students attended Montclair High School before 1900. The current Glen Ridge High School building opened in November 1968. It replaced an older structure built in 1900. That building became Glen Ridge Middle School. The new high school cost $2.8 million. That’s equivalent to $24.5 million today.
Glen Ridge High School boasts impressive academic achievements. Its standardized test scores surpass state and national averages. The Class of 2013 achieved an average SAT score of 1719. This significantly exceeded New Jersey’s average of 1512. A remarkable 69% of students met or exceeded the College Board’s benchmark for college success. That’s 25% higher than the statewide average. The school’s 97% graduation rate is also noteworthy.
Glen Ridge High School is more than just academics. It’s known for its vibrant athletic programs. The Ridgers compete in the Super Essex Conference. They also participate in the North Jersey Super Football Conference. The school’s athletic achievements are extensive. They include multiple state championships in various sports. The boys’ track team alone won 15 state titles. That includes eight consecutive titles. The ice hockey team even holds the record for the longest game in state history.
The school’s rich history includes both triumphs and tragedies. The Glen Ridge rape case of 1989 cast a shadow. The incident involved football players and a disabled student. The resulting trial and its aftermath were extensively documented. The story is a stark reminder of the complexities of a seemingly perfect community.
Despite this dark chapter Glen Ridge High School continues to thrive. It stands as a testament to the resilience of its community. It’s a place where students achieve academic excellence and athletic success. It’s a place where students build lasting memories. Glen Ridge High School is more than just a school. It’s a vibrant part of Glen Ridge’s identity and heritage. It’s a place where history and the future intertwine.