Hig
h School Weird Trivia
High school can be a confusing and challenging time for many students, but did you know that some of the most interesting facts and stories come out of this period of life? Here are some of the most intriguing and weird bits of trivia about high school that you probably never knew.
1. The largest high school in the world is in India
The City Montessori School in Lucknow, India, has been recognised by the Guinness World Records as the largest school in the world by number of students. As of May 2021, they have a total of 55,547 students.
2. The first high school in America was founded in 1635
Boston Latin School, founded in 1635, was the first public high school in the United States. Over the centuries, it has produced numerous famous alumni, including founding father Benjamin Franklin.
3. The term "sophomore" comes from Greek roots
Sophomore stems from the Greek words sophos, meaning wise, and moros, meaning foolish. Literally translated, sophomore means "wise fool" - a term that has been used to describe second-year students for centuries.
4. Students used to get paddled in some schools
Until the 1980s, corporal punishment was a common disciplinary measure in many American schools. The use of the paddle as a form of corporal punishment was particularly widespread in the southern United States.
5. President Obama was a high school basketball star
Before he became President of the United States, Barack Obama was known for his basketball skills. In high school, he was a standout player on his team at Punahou School in Hawaii.
6. The first school mascot was a goat
The first school mascot was a goat named "Elwood" at the University of North Carolina in 1895. Since then, mascots have become an integral part of high school and college sports culture.
7. Some high schools were originally segregationist
Many southern high schools were established in the late 1800s and early 1900s as part of the "separate but equal" doctrine, which allowed for segregation in public schools. Some of these schools are still in operation today.
8. The class ring tradition began at West Point
The practice of wearing class rings to symbolise graduation and allegiance to one's school began at the United States Military Academy at West Point in the mid-1800s. The tradition has since spread to high schools and colleges all over the world.
9. There is a high school that doubles as a ski resort
In Park City, Utah, students attend the Winter Sports School, which doubles as a ski resort during the winter months. Students can take classes in the morning and hit the slopes in the afternoon.
10 Some high schools have their own police departments
In response to school shootings and other security concerns, some high schools in the United States have their own police departments. These departments are staffed by trained law enforcement officers who work on campus to keep students safe.
High school is full of interesting facts and stories that often go unnoticed. Whether it's the history of a school, its traditions, or its notable alumni, there's always something new to discover.