Ever wonder about the legacy forged within those walls? Orange High School stands as a beacon of education. It serves the students of Orange, New Jersey. This comprehensive public high school accommodates grades nine through twelve. Orange High School operates as part of the Orange Board of Education.
Let’s dive into the history of Orange High School. The first school was dedicated on September 13, 1869. It was next to the First Church of Orange. The current site was dedicated on October 7, 1973. Students began attending September 5 of that year. This makes it the fourth location for the school.
Orange High School has been accredited since 1928. The Middle States Association of Colleges and Schools has accredited it.
As of 2023-24, 1,370 students attend Orange High School. There are 83.5 classroom teachers. The student-teacher ratio is about 16.4 to 1. A large percentage of students qualify for free lunch.
The Orange High School Tornadoes compete in athletics. They are part of the Super Essex Conference. This conference includes public and private schools. The Tornadoes also participate in the North Jersey Super Football Conference. The school colors are orange and black.
Orange High School’s football team has a rich history. For the 2024-2026 seasons, the school is classified as Group IV North.
The boys basketball team has won eight state championships. This ties them for third-most among public schools. In 1994, the team won the Tournament of Champions. They finished with a 25-3 record. The Tornadoes even achieved a national ranking of No. 11 in USA Today.
Besides athletics, Orange High School fosters musical talent. The Mighty Marching Tornadoes is the school’s marching band. There is also a choir called Voices in Harmony.
Orange High School has produced many notable alumni. Richard Codey served as the 53rd governor of New Jersey. Beatrice Hicks founded the Society of Women Engineers. Monte Irvin played in the Negro leagues and Major League Baseball. Sam Seale played ten seasons in the NFL.
Heinie Benkert was a notable faculty member. He taught history and coached football. He retired in 1971.
Jason Belton is the current principal of Orange High School. He is supported by assistant principals. Together, they lead Orange High School.
Orange High School continues to evolve. It maintains its commitment to education. It fosters a spirit of community. The school prepares students for success. Orange High School remains a point of pride for the city.