Highland Secondary School

Early in the 1960’s, the former Dundas District School Board obtained permission from the Ministry of Education to build a new secondary school in Dundas, to complete the programs in the other two Dundas schools. After two years of planning and constructing, Highland Secondary School opened in September, 1966 with 350 students. In June, 1969, the first grade 13 graduates received their Honour Graduation Diplomas.

During the 1972-1982 period, the school’s program broadened considerably, often as a result of parents, students and teachers working together to make recommendations to the Board. German and Latin were added to the Languages Department, complete programs in Art and Music were introduced, and the school was one of the first in the area to offer courses in Computer Science. With the closing of Dundas District to high school students in 1982, Highland became a fully composite school, capable of meeting the needs of the students in the community.

The following year, after conducting research studies and consulting with parents, Highland successfully introduced a semester system.

In the mid 1980’s, a group of concerned parents petitioned the Board for a new school library and in 1987, the Gordon E. Carswell Memorial Library and Resource Centre was opened, a fitting tribute to a much respected educator.

In 1994, parents began meeting on a regular basis with the principal to discuss matters of common concern. This fledgling group evolved into the Highland School Council, whose task is to promote the well-being of all students and act as a formals liaison between the home and school.

Highland has a long tradition of working with parents and students to improve the quality of education it offers. The staff remains committed to providing high standards and a supportive environment as we move into the twenty-first century.

In 2014, Highland amalgamated with Parkside High School to form Dundas Valley Secondary School.