Fairfax High School

What if a school could talk? What stories would these halls whisper, if the walls of Fairfax High School could speak? Here at Fairfax High School, whispers of history and echoes of laughter fill the air. Fairfax High School isn’t just a building. It’s a living testament to the City of Fairfax, a community hub that has witnessed generations come and go since its first incarnation in 1935. Originally located on Fairfax Boulevard, the school was a product of the Great Depression, built with funds from the Public Works Administration. Fairfax High School first opened its doors on February 22, 1935, offering a beacon of hope during a difficult time. Can you imagine the excitement of those first 250 students, many of whom had previously traveled to Oakton High School for their education? The original building, with its vine-covered walls, became a beloved landmark, expanding eight times to accommodate the growing student population. The “baby boom” era saw Fairfax High School bursting at the seams, with 80 teachers and 1,000 students by 1954. The school’s spirit was perhaps best embodied in the Honor Code, composed by students in 1949. It encouraged wholesome speech, helpfulness, proper conduct, and self-improvement, values that resonate even today within Fairfax High School. By 1972, it was clear that Fairfax High School needed a new home. The current building on Blenheim Boulevard opened its doors, welcoming 1,800 students. The Honor Code, a cherished piece of Fairfax High School history, made the journey too. The old building continued to serve the community, first as George Mason University’s North Campus and later as the home of St. Paul VI Catholic High School. But time marches on. Even the “new” Fairfax High School underwent a massive $54 million renovation in 2005. This transformation brought 17 new classrooms, a state-of-the-art library, and updated technology. Today, Fairfax High School educates over 2,300 students. It continues to be a vibrant part of the community, offering a comprehensive curriculum and a wealth of extracurricular activities, continuing the legacy of Fairfax High School.