North Central HS Rededication

The story of North Central High School is about more than just bricks and mortar, it’s a legacy of excellence. No high school existed in Washington Township prior to the establishment of North Central in 1956. The families who raised the funds and founded the school demanded nothing less than excellence. The school board hired J. Everett Light as the first Superintendent of Washington Township Schools. Mr. Light then recruited the finest faculty from around the city and state. North Central opened its doors in August of 1956 in the former Northview Middle School on Westfield Boulevard.
As soon as the high school opened, it was clear North Central had already outgrown its initial structure. Administrators began planning for a larger facility. Once again the community rose to the occasion and raised the funds to build a new high school at 1801 East 86th Street. Students attended classes in air-conditioned rooms and performed experiments in state-of-the-art science labs. Russian, Chinese, German, French, Spanish, Hebrew, and Japanese were offered over the years as options for a second language.
In the 1970’s and early 1980’s, North Central enrolled thousands of students with graduating classes of around 1000. During this time, the high school also began to offer Advanced Placement courses while Performing Arts, Athletics, and clubs flourished. In 1994 North Central was renovated and wings were added on three sides of the building.
Thanks to the generous tax payers who passed the 2016 and 2020 referenda’s, North Central ‘s ongoing renovations continue between 2023-2026. Improvements include a new secure entrance, expanded student services to include student support for each grade level, up-graded LED lighting and furniture throughout. All classrooms have been modernized and additional classroom spaces have been created. The renovation also includes an updated football stadium, a new fieldhouse, new locker rooms, and fully refurbished main gym. The cafeteria has been expanded to serve more students and the updated Performing Arts spaces including the Auditorium have been completely upgraded.
The common thread throughout North Central High School’s history has been a commitment to providing high quality academic programs, clubs and sports which enhance a rich student experience. Today, students are taking more Advance Placement, Dual Credit, and International Baccalaureate courses than at any time in the school’s history. With ongoing investments, the traditions established in 1956 remain strong and North Central continues to thrive more than a half-century later.