A Legacy of Excellence Since 1951
Northwestern High School, located in Hyattsville, Maryland, has been a cornerstone of education in Prince George’s County for over seven decades. Founded in 1951, the school was created through the consolidation of three former high schools—Hyattsville, Greenbelt, and Mount Rainier—uniting students and communities under one roof. Originally serving grades 10–12, Northwestern quickly became a vibrant educational and cultural hub for the growing suburban area just outside of Washington, D.C.Throughout the 1960s and 1970s, Northwestern expanded its facilities to accommodate a rapidly increasing student population. New classroom wings, music and art rooms, and gymnasiums were added, forming the familiar layout that came to define the original campus. These wings—designated A, B, and C—housed specialized spaces including science labs, art studios, and music suites. A unique feature of the old campus was "The Senior Courtyard," an outdoor space originally reserved for seniors to gather during lunch, later opened to the entire student body. Northwestern was one of the few schools in the area to allow students outside during lunch, thanks to its accommodating design.In 1981, Northwestern transitioned from a senior high school (grades 10–12) to a full high school serving grades 9–12, aligning with broader district changes and allowing for a more comprehensive secondary education experience.
A New Era: Rebuilding for the Future
By the mid-1990s, it became clear that the original school building, though rich in history, was no longer meeting the needs of a 21st-century education. In response, Prince George’s County Public Schools approved a major renovation project to build a new, modern facility. Construction began in the summer of 1998, directly behind the existing school, allowing students to remain in class throughout the process.The new $45 million building officially opened in August 2000, marking the beginning of a new era for Northwestern. The state-of-the-art campus features 386,000 square feet of space and can accommodate up to 2,700 students, making it the second-largest high school in Maryland by total square footage. One beloved piece of the original building—the Justice Memorial Auditorium—was preserved, renovated, and integrated into the new school as the D-Wing. The original school structure was completely demolished by 2002, and the site now serves as the school’s main parking lot and bus area.
Building a Modern, Inclusive Community
As Northwestern entered the 21st century, the school distinguished itself not only with its facilities but with a forward-thinking approach to technology and education. At the time of reopening, the school housed over 1,100 computers and six computer labs, the most of any high school in Maryland. Every classroom was equipped with internet-connected computers, placing Northwestern at the forefront of digital learning.In 2002, the arts building was renamed the Jim Henson School of Arts, Media and Communications in honor of Northwestern alumnus Jim Henson, creator of The Muppets and a graduate of the Class of 1954. The dedication ceremony was attended by Henson's family and representatives from the Jim Henson Legacy, cementing Northwestern’s reputation as a school that celebrates creativity, innovation, and student achievement.In 2005, Northwestern became the first high school in the county to implement a mandatory school uniform policy, promoting school unity and focus while maintaining student comfort. The uniform includes a white polo shirt and navy or dark blue pants, shorts, or skirts, with no restrictions on footwear.
Today: Excellence, Opportunity, and Innovation
Northwestern High School continues to evolve to meet the needs of today’s learners. The school is home to the Center for the Visual and Performing Arts (CVPA), one of only two such programs in Prince George’s County. Launched in the 2013–14 school year, the CVPA is a competitive, four-year magnet program offering intensive college and career preparation in the visual arts, music, dance, and theater. Admission is selective, and the program operates under a "school-within-a-school" model, drawing talented students from a specific attendance zone.Beyond academics, Northwestern also supports the broader community. The school hosts an Evening High School for students requiring flexible schedules, a Saturday High School program for additional academic support, and the widely known ISP Flea Market, a weekend event run by the school’s International Studies Program that draws community members from across the region.Pride in Our Past, Confidence in Our Future
From its historic beginnings in 1951 to its current role as a hub of academic excellence, creativity, and community service, Northwestern High School remains committed to empowering students through education. As we continue to grow and adapt, we proudly honor our legacy while preparing our students to become leaders in the world of tomorrow.
