History

Leading the Way Since 1912

The Mt. Lebanon School District’s story is one of growth, bold ideas, and a community that has always deeply believed in its schools. From humble beginnings to national recognition, our history reflects a relentless commitment to excellence and a willingness to evolve.

Learning Takes Root 

Mt. Lebanon’s story begins with strong roots. Around 1850, the Rev. Joseph Clokey returned from the Near East with two Cedar of Lebanon trees, planting them near his home on Bower Hill Road. Those trees, native only to the mountains of present-day Lebanon, inspired the community’s name, which became official in 1855 with the opening of the first post office.

Education in the area dates back to the late 1700s, when students gathered in one-room log cabins. On July 1, 1912, the Mt. Lebanon School District officially organized, serving approximately 200 students in grades 1-8 across four buildings, with the first day of class held on September  2, 1912. 

Growing with Purpose

As Mt. Lebanon grew throughout the 1920s and 1930s, the District adopted a philosophy that remains central today: neighborhood schools. Elementary schools were built at the heart of developing communities, many featuring distinctive architecture that still anchors neighborhoods today. By the late 1920s, Washington (1923), Lincoln (1925), Howe (1928), and Markham (1929) Schools had opened. 

In 1930, Mt. Lebanon High School welcomed students and soon expanded to serve all secondary grades. Continued growth led to the opening of Mellon Junior High (1939), Foster Elementary (1941), Jefferson Elementary (1952), Jefferson Junior High (1959), and Hoover Elementary in 1972, each reflecting the community’s ongoing investment in education.

National Recognition & Forward Thinking 

As the District grew, it gained recognition across the Commonwealth and nation for its forward thinking. Mt. Lebanon was the first in Western Pennsylvania to offer Advanced Placement courses, and in 1957, Time magazine recognized the High School as one of the nation’s top 35 high schools. That momentum continued in 1984, when the District was named among the top 100 public high schools in the country by the U.S. Department of Education.

As the 1990s approached, Mt. Lebanon once again looked forward, launching its first strategic planning process well before it was required by the Commonwealth. Throughout these decades, excellence extended beyond the classroom. Students earned regional and national recognition in academics, fine arts, and athletics, with championship teams, award-winning performers, and memorable appearances at venues like Carnegie Hall, the White House, and Walt Disney World. In 1998, Mt. Lebanon High School received its third Blue Ribbon award, along with special recognition for its outstanding Fine Arts program.

A New Century of Leadership 

As the 21st century began, Mt. Lebanon continued to adapt by modernizing facilities, advancing instruction, and thoughtfully integrating technology to meet the needs of today’s learners. 

With more than 5,500 students across 10 schools, supported by a dedicated staff and an engaged community, Mt. Lebanon School District continues to honor its past while leading the way forward - for every student, every day.