San Marino High School (SMHS), located at 2701 Huntington Drive in San Marino, California, is a distinguished public high school serving grades 9 through 12. Established in 1952, it operates as the sole high school within the San Marino Unified School District (SMUSD). The school’s mascot, the Titans, pays homage to Mount Titano in the Republic of San Marino.
Historical Background
Before SMHS’s establishment, local high school students attended South Pasadena High School. The founding of SMHS in 1952 marked a significant milestone for the community, providing a dedicated institution for secondary education. The campus occupies the former site of Carver Elementary School. A comprehensive reconstruction project began in 1996, resulting in modernized facilities, including new laboratories, classrooms, and Ethernet connections, funded through bond issues and the efforts of the San Marino Schools Endowment.
Academic Excellence
SMHS has consistently demonstrated a commitment to academic excellence. In 2006, it was designated a National Blue Ribbon School, a prestigious honor recognizing superior academic performance. The school has also been acknowledged as a Gold Medal school by U.S. News & World Report, ranking among the top high schools nationwide. The California Business for Education Excellence included SMHS in its Honor Roll in 2008, and in 2009, the California Department of Education named it a California Distinguished School.
The Class of 2024 exemplified the school’s academic rigor, with an average GPA of 3.71. Notably, 83% of these students enrolled in at least one Advanced Placement (AP) course during their tenure, averaging 4.87 AP classes per student. This achievement is underscored by the increasing pass rates on AP exams, even as enrollment in these courses has risen.
Student Demographics
As of the 2022-2023 academic year, SMHS enrolled approximately 806 students, supported by a full-time equivalent (FTE) faculty of 42.17, resulting in a student-teacher ratio of 19.11. The student body reflects the diverse community of San Marino, with a significant representation of Asian and Caucasian students, alongside Hispanic, African American, and multiracial individuals.
Athletic Programs
Athletics play a vital role in student life at SMHS. The school maintains a spirited rivalry with neighboring South Pasadena High School, particularly evident during sports competitions that draw substantial community interest. SMHS has a history of athletic achievements, including five consecutive California Interscholastic Federation (CIF) boys’ tennis titles in 1998, earning a number one ranking in USA Today’s High School Tennis Teams. In 2015, the football team secured a CIF Central Section title and triumphed in the CIF State Southern California Regional Small School Division.
Extracurricular Activities
Beyond athletics, SMHS offers a wide array of extracurricular programs. The school’s Winter Drumline achieved national recognition in April 2018 by advancing to the Winter Guard International (WGI) world-class division, ranking 14th in the nation. Such accomplishments highlight the school’s dedication to fostering diverse talents among its students.
Community and Support
The success of SMHS is bolstered by the active involvement of the San Marino community. The San Marino Schools Foundation plays a crucial role in supplementing public funding through private donations, ensuring the continuation of high-quality educational programs and facility enhancements. This partnership reflects the community’s commitment to maintaining the school’s standards of excellence.
Notable Alumni
SMHS boasts an impressive list of alumni who have excelled in various fields:
Kim Carnes (Class of 1963): Renowned singer-songwriter known for the hit “Bette Davis Eyes.”
Laurie Garrett (Class of 1969): Pulitzer Prize-winning journalist recognized for her work in public health.
Gregg Jarrett (Class of 1973): Fox News anchor and legal analyst.
Andrés Cantor (Class of 1980): Emmy Award-winning Spanish-language soccer sportscaster famous for his enthusiastic goal calls.
Stephan Pastis (Class of 1986): Cartoonist and creator of the comic strip “Pearls Before Swine.”
Greg Penner (Class of 1988): Chairman of Walmart.
Blair Imani (Class of 2012): Activist and author known for her work in social justice and LGBTQ+ advocacy.
Recent Achievements
In 2023, SMHS received the prestigious National Blue Ribbon Award in the Exemplary High Performing Schools category, reaffirming its status as one of the top-performing schools in California. This accolade reflects the school’s unwavering commitment to academic excellence and student success.
Conclusion
San Marino High School stands as a beacon of academic excellence, athletic prowess, and community engagement. Its rich history, coupled with a forward-thinking approach to education, ensures that it continues to prepare students for success in an ever-evolving world. The collaborative efforts of dedicated faculty, supportive community members, and motivated students contribute to the enduring legacy of the Titans.