History
The Highlander yearbook was originally produced by a group of students in the 1916–17 school year.
The Scots football team celebrates after winning the 2005 UIL 4A State Championship.
Members of the first HPHS newspaper staff in 1933.
Cheerleaders strike a pose in 1963.
Highland Park High School traces its roots to the founding of Highland Park ISD in 1914. What began as a small school serving fewer than 100 students has grown into one of the most recognized public high schools in Texas, known for excellence in academics, athletics, fine arts, leadership, and service.
The district's first dedicated high school campus opened on Normandy Avenue in 1922, allowing students to complete their education in Highland Park rather than attending schools in Dallas. In 1937, the high school relocated to its current Emerson Avenue site, where it has continued to expand and evolve to meet the needs of future generations of Scots.
Throughout its history, Highland Park High School has been home to many of the district's most enduring traditions. The Highlander mascot and blue-and-gold colors were adopted in 1923. The Bagpipe tradition began in the 1930s, while organizations such as the Highland Belles, The Highlander yearbook, and The Bagpipe newspaper have become defining parts of student life.
The campus has undergone significant growth over the decades. Major additions have included Highlander Stadium, the Seay Tennis Center, the Multi-Purpose Activities Center (MPAC), the Moody Innovation Institute, the Moody Advanced Professional Studies (MAPS) Center, and extensive renovations completed through the 2015 Bond Program. These investments have allowed HPHS to offer students innovative learning environments while maintaining its historic character.
Today, Highland Park High School is consistently recognized among the top public high schools in Texas and the nation. More than 97 percent of graduates pursue higher education, and students continue to excel in academics, athletics, fine arts, and service while carrying forward the district's motto: Enter to Learn. Go Forth to Serve.
Key Milestones
- 1914 — Highland Park High School begins serving students as part of the newly established district.
- 1922 — First dedicated high school campus opens on Normandy Avenue.
- 1923 — Highlander mascot and blue-and-gold colors are adopted.
- 1924 — First graduating class completes all four years in Highland Park schools.
- 1933 — The Bagpipe student newspaper is first published.
- 1937 — High school relocates to its current Emerson Avenue campus.
- 1980 — Highlander Stadium opens.