A new school a 21st-century marvel That’s the dream for Quantico Middle High School. But the story of Quantico Middle High School is much older than that. It began in 1919. Eight grades of students were crammed into various buildings. High schoolers had to travel off base. Imagine the journeys to Occoquan Fredericksburg or even Washington DC. Funding was creative. Donations bazaars and even ticket sales from the Post Theater all helped keep the school doors open.
The school grew. Grades nine through twelve were added in the 1930s. By 1940 over 300 students were enrolled. In 1941 it officially became the Quantico Post School. A new building was funded by Congress. Ground was broken in 1941. The Quantico Post School opened in 1942. This building later became Burrows Elementary School.
Fast forward to 1961. Construction began on the current high school building. This was thanks to Public Law 815. Classes for grades 7-12 started in 1962. The building was dedicated that same year. The school boomed. In 1971 enrollment peaked with over 800 high school students. Three elementary schools housed another 1700 students. Five trailers were added to accommodate the growing high school.
The school’s history isn’t just about buildings though. It’s about adapting. In 1988 when Burrows Elementary was slated for demolition sixth graders moved to the high school. In 1989 Quantico Middle School was formed. It operated separately until 1997. Then Quantico Middle High School became one.
Today Quantico Middle High School is a vital part of the Marine Corps Base community. It serves military-connected students. Its purpose is to create globally minded students. They’re empowered to think critically. The school strives to prepare its students for college and careers. There are plans to build a new state-of-the-art facility. This new school will represent a modern chapter in this school’s long and rich history. A history filled with adaptation growth and a commitment to education. So as you stand here today remember the journey of this remarkable school.