Gyde
Open prototypeProto
Back to all San Francisco places

San Francisco, California / History

Mission High School

A historic pillar of the Mission District, Mission High School is the oldest high school on its original site in San Francisco, featuring a campus rebuilt after a devastating 1922 fire.

Open prototype Official site Get directions
Mission High School
www.sfusd.edu, og_image_www.sfusd.edu

Where is Mission High School located?

Mission High School is located at 3750 18th Street, San Francisco, CA 94114.

What are the hours for Mission High School?

The school is open Monday, Tuesday, Thursday, and Friday from 8:40 am to 3:40 pm, and Wednesday from 8:40 am to 2:23 pm.

What is the history of Mission High School?

Founded in 1890, it has been on its current 18th Street site since 1896 and is the oldest high school on its original site in San Francisco. The original campus burned in 1922, and a replacement was completed in stages, with the main building dedicated on June 12, 1927.

How can I get to Mission High School using public transit?

The school is accessible via the J, 22, and 33 transit lines.

What is Mission High School known for?

It is a public school serving grades 9-12 that offers AP courses and a Gifted & Talented program.

What should I check before going?

Use Gyde for context, then check official sources for current hours, tickets, construction, and closures.

What to know

Founded in 1890, Mission High School stands as a significant educational landmark in San Francisco. While it occupied different locations during its early years, it has remained on its current 18th Street site since 1896, earning it the distinction of being the oldest high school on its original site in the city. The campus has a resilient history. The original buildings were destroyed by fire in 1922, leading to a phased reconstruction. The west wing was completed in 1925, and the main building was officially dedicated on June 12, 1927, by Mayor James Rolph. Today, the school is part of the San Francisco Unified School District and serves approximately 1,089 students in grades 9 through 12. It offers academic rigor through a Gifted & Talented program and Advanced Placement coursework and exams. Located at 3750 18th Street, the school remains an active public institution. It operates on a specific weekly schedule, with students departing at 3:40 pm most days, though Wednesdays feature an early dismissal at 2:23 pm.

Visitor tips

  • View the architecture from the sidewalk on 18th Street between Dolores and Church.
  • Avoid visiting during the 2:23 pm Wednesday early dismissal to miss the heaviest student crowds.
  • Use the J, 22, or 33 transit lines for easy access to the campus.

Nearby context

Mission High School is situated in the heart of the Mission District, located just a short walk from the historic Mission San Francisco de Asís (Mission Dolores) and the local shops of Paxton Gate.

Sources

Evidence and links