Newton North High School

Opened in 1859 as Newton High School, Newton North High School has a rich history. It stands proudly in Newtonville, Massachusetts. Originally, high school classes were scattered throughout Newton in various grammar school buildings. The town’s growing population mandated a dedicated high school. This led to the construction of the first Newton High School on Walnut Street. J.N. Beals, the school’s first principal and namesake of the current Beals House, led the early years. He taught alongside Amy Breck. Due to health issues, Beals left after a year. E.D. Adams, another principal who has a house named after him, took over. The original Walnut Street building saw modifications in 1875 and a complete rebuild in 1898. This Classical Newton High School became known as Building I. Building II, the Vocational High School, arrived around 1906, followed by Building III in 1926. A field house and athletic fields completed the campus, connected by a network of tunnels. For over a century, it was Newton’s sole public high school until Newton South opened in 1960. In 1973, the school moved to Lowell Avenue and became Newton North High School. The first class to graduate under the new name did so in 1974. The old Newton High School buildings were then demolished. By the early 2000s, the Lowell Avenue building was showing its age. Leaks, poor ventilation, and crumbling stairs necessitated a rebuild. Despite community debates about cost and design, a new $197.5 million building opened in September 2010. This made it one of the most expensive high schools in the state. The new Newton North High School features a north-south orientation. The main entrance returned to Walnut Street. The design incorporates energy-efficient elements. These include solar panels, rainwater reuse systems, and low-emission interior materials. It is one of the first LEED-certified schools in Massachusetts. Today, Newton North High School continues its legacy of academic excellence. Its house system, named after former principals, fosters a sense of community. The school offers diverse courses, from college prep to vocational training. Its Greengineering program was a pioneering effort in biodiesel production and sustainable practices. Newton North High School boasts many successful extracurriculars and clubs. Its students contribute to The Newtonite newspaper and The Newtonian yearbook. The school’s athletic teams have won numerous championships. Newton North High School’s track and field program is particularly renowned. It holds a remarkable history of state titles.