From its humble beginnings in 1900 Arvada High School has a rich history. Classes started in a small building. It wasn’t until 1920 that a permanent high school was built. That first Arvada High School stood at 7225 Ralston Road. It served students until 1955. The building later became a junior high school. It was demolished in 1986.
Arvada High School moved to a new building on Balsam Street in 1955. This served students until the current building opened at 7951 W 65th Avenue in 1971. The Balsam Street location then became Arvada Junior High School. This reflects the school’s ongoing growth and adaptation to the needs of the community.
The school’s mascot has also changed over time. In the early 1920s the team was known as the Redskins. This was changed to the Reds in 1993. The bulldog became the school’s mascot. This name change addressed concerns about the original mascot’s offensiveness. It showcases the school’s commitment to inclusivity.
Arvada High School boasts a strong academic program. Since 2006 it has housed the district’s North Area Option School. This rigorous college preparatory program offers many advanced placement classes. Arvada High School instructors teach these classes. Half the enrollment spots are reserved for Arvada High School students.
Beyond academics Arvada High School excels in extracurricular activities. The school fields teams in various sports. These include football baseball basketball and more. The school’s percussion ensemble even won the WGI World Percussion Championships in 1998. This diverse range of activities enriches the student experience.
Arvada High School has produced notable alumni. Tagg Bozied a professional baseball player is one example. Joe Decamillis an American football coach is another. Chris Sanders a renowned animator filmmaker and voice actor also graduated from Arvada High School. These achievements highlight the school’s impact on the wider world.
The school has a rich and evolving history. It reflects the growth of Arvada and the changes in education and society. The school’s dedication to academics extracurriculars and community engagement has made it a cornerstone of the Arvada community. It continues to shape the lives of its students providing them with opportunities for growth and success. Arvada High School is more than just a school. It’s a legacy a tradition and a vital part of the Arvada community.