Peeking out from behind these trees is Suitland High School. It is more than just a school. It is a place of history and transformation.
Suitland High School first opened its doors on November 15 1951. John W. McNamara presided over the dedication ceremony. Principal Thomas Warthen accepted the dedication on behalf of the students and faculty. The school’s colors are Scarlet Red and White. The mascot is the Ram.
Originally, Suitland High served students in grades 10 through 12. In 1981 the school changed. It included 9th-grade students and dropped “Senior” from its name.
Dr. Joe Hairston transformed Suitland into a magnet school in 1987. He served as principal until the mid-1990s. Suitland High School’s motto is “Falling Forward Toward Student Achievement”.
On January 20 1988 President Ronald Reagan visited Suitland High. He announced $115 million in magnet school funding. The school’s status as a successful magnet school influenced his choice.
Suitland High School offers unique programs. The Center for the Visual and Performing Arts started in 1986. It is a four-year arts program. The Naval Junior Reserve Officers’ Training Corps was established in May 1982. It focuses on citizenship leadership and maritime heritage.
Suitland High has seen its share of challenges. In 2009 Sheryll Cashin noted underperformance. Less than half of the seniors enrolled in four-year colleges.
But change is on the horizon for Suitland High School. A new campus is expected to open in 2026. The groundbreaking ceremony was in June 2022. This renovation marks a new chapter for the school. It will accommodate 2000 students. This includes 500 in the Center for Visual and Performing Arts program. Career and Technical Education programs moved to Crossland High School.
Suitland High School has produced many notable alumni. Steny Hoyer is a Majority Leader and Congressman. NaVorro Bowman played football in the NFL. George O. Gore II is an American actor. Andrew Maynard is a professional boxer and Olympian.
“Dear Old Suitland High School” is the school song. Billy Pirrone and Ronnie Crown composed it. It is sung with pride.
Suitland High School stands as a beacon of education and opportunity. From its humble beginnings to its future aspirations it continues to shape lives. It prepares students for a bright future. The new campus promises even greater opportunities. Suitland High School remains a vital part of its community.