“Sincerity, Maturity, Honor, and Service” echoes through the halls of Santa Monica High School. This motto encapsulates the values instilled within its students. Santa Monica High School also known as Samohi stands as a beacon of education in Santa Monica. It has a rich history dating back to its founding in 1891.
Santa Monica High School’s story began with the Union High School Law. This law paved the way for a four-year high school in Santa Monica. The first graduating class walked across the stage in 1894. The school moved locations several times before settling at 601 Pico Boulevard. Today, Santa Monica High School is part of the Santa Monica-Malibu Unified School District.
The campus expanded significantly in 1912. A single building emerged which is now the History Building. Enrollment was only 50 students then. The location offered views of the Pacific Ocean. The English building was added ten years later.
In 1921, the Open Air Memorial Theater was built. It is now called the Greek Amphitheatre. It honored Santa Monicans who served in World War I. This amphitheater showcases classical Greek style. Santa Monica residents funded its construction through a 30,000 dollar bond measure. Barnum Hall Theater opened in 1937. It was initially named the Auditorium. The Works Progress Administration built it to serve as Santa Monica’s Civic Auditorium. It also hosts school events. The Language Building, the Business Building and the Music Building were added during this time.
Santa Monica High School expanded to its current 33 acres in 1952. The Science and Technology D.M. Buildings were added. Barnum Hall was renovated. The Music Building was completely rebuilt.
The Innovation Building was completed for the 2015 to 2016 school year. It included the Centennial Plaza. The Discovery Building opened in 2021 to 2022. It features a new pool and cafeteria.
The History Building was demolished in 2021. The Exploration Building replaced it in 2024 to 2025. Demolition of the South Gym began in 2024. The Gold Gym is expected to be complete by the end of 2024.
In 2003, Santa Monica High School implemented a house system. Students are assigned to one of four houses S, A, M, or O. Siblings can opt to be in the same house. Each house is overseen by a principal, counselors, and an office assistant.
Santa Monica High School excels academically. The academic team won the 2008 National Science Bowl. They also won the 2017 National Ocean Sciences Bowl. The quiz bowl team is competitive in Southern California.
The music department is renowned. In 2005, the Symphony Orchestra was named the nation’s best high school orchestra. The American String Teachers Association gave them the honor. The orchestra program includes various ensembles. Santa Monica High School orchestras have traveled nationally and internationally. In 2006, the Symphony Orchestra was the first public high school orchestra. It performed at Walt Disney Concert Hall in Downtown Los Angeles.
The Santa Monica High School Viking Marching Band is one of California’s oldest. The marching band performs at football games and community events. In 2006, the marching band qualified for the SCSBOA championship for the first time. Samohi offers five concert bands. The Wind Ensemble has performed at Carnegie Hall and Chicago Symphony Hall.
Santa Monica High School boasts many notable alumni. They include actors, musicians, astronauts and sports figures. Robert Downey Jr. and Sean Penn attended but did not graduate.
From its humble beginnings to its present-day stature, Santa Monica High School has left an indelible mark. Its commitment to academics and arts remains steadfast. As students pass through its halls, they carry with them. They hold “Sincerity, Maturity, Honor, and Service” shaping them into future leaders and innovators.