Did Ross S Sterling High School ever win a paper contest? Yes it did. Right here before you stands Ross S Sterling High School. Opened in 1965 it initially served grades 7 through 12. This wasn’t just any school. Its unique design included air conditioning a rare and essential feature for Houston ISD schools at the time. It even had a twin James Madison Jr/Senior High School.
Ross S Sterling High School’s first principal was A P Pete Dowling. He was a seasoned educator and administrator within HISD. The school quickly made a name for itself. In 1967 a local radio station KILT held a contest. Each high school had to submit as much paper as possible with its name on it. Ross S Sterling High School won submitting tons of paper and punch cards. The prize? A school dance featuring the band Southwest F O B.
The school transitioned to a senior high school exclusively in 1968-1969. Its Blue Raider football team made its first playoff appearance in 1970. They won the district championship. Then they beat Robert E Lee. However Sam Houston High stopped their run in the area round.
In May 1970 Ross S Sterling High School established its NJROTC program. Graduates weren’t obligated for military service but many chose to serve. The school faced challenges. In 1984-1985 despite a state-implemented No Pass No Play rule the percentage of failing grades remained unchanged. This was also true at Barbara Jordan High School for Careers.
Later accusations of broken promises and misleading statements about campus renovations surfaced. In 2010 about half the students zoned to Ross S Sterling High School didn’t attend. By 2020-2021 enrollment rose to 1642. More students from outside the attendance zone enrolled. Fewer students within the zone opted for other schools.
The current campus opened in 2016. It boasts 237000 square feet and cost $72 million. A 7100 square foot hangar is a testament to the school’s aviation magnet program. This program offers FAA approved courses and up to 30 hours of flight time. Students can then take the FAA written examination.
Ross S Sterling High School isn’t just bricks and mortar. It’s a vibrant community. It’s a legacy of achievement. It is a place where students from diverse backgrounds come together. They actively participate in celebrations of Hispanic Heritage Month Black History Month and Cinco de Mayo. Homecoming week is a highlight. It’s described as a week-long Mardi Gras. This school is a testament to the spirit and resilience of Houston. Ross S Sterling High School is more than a school. It’s a story waiting to be written. One student at a time.