The History of Chagrin Falls Washington Street High School

The High School building on the Washington Street Campus has played a significant role in the growth and development of the Chagrin Falls Exempted Village School District. Built during a period of rapid population growth, the school has served generations of students and reflected the community’s commitment to providing quality education. Its history is closely tied to the post-World War II expansion of Chagrin Falls and the evolving needs of local families.

Growing Enrollment Creates a Need for a New School

For many years, the school buildings located on Philomethian Street adequately served the educational needs of Chagrin Falls students. As the village and surrounding township continued to grow, however, enrollment steadily increased.

The population boom that followed World War II placed significant pressure on existing school facilities. By the early 1950s, it became clear that additional classroom space was needed. School officials began planning for a new campus that could accommodate the district’s growing enrollment.

Chagrin Falls School Board Purchases Former Fairgrounds Property

A major step toward expanding the school system occurred in 1955 when the Chagrin Falls Board of Education purchased the former fairgrounds property from the Cuyahoga County Commissioners for $5,000.

The acquisition provided the district with 54 acres of land, creating ample space for future educational facilities and long-term growth. This property would eventually become one of the most important educational campuses in Chagrin Falls history.

Construction of the High School

Construction of the new High School began in 1958. The school was officially dedicated in 1959. When it was first completed, it was much smaller in size than it is today.

The school contained one long building that housed classrooms and a cafeteria.  There was no gym or auditorium.  If those facilities were needed, the students had to walk down to the Philomethian campus. 

New Additions to the Campus

In 1961 a new gym was added to the campus.  The gym was named the Ralph Quesinberry gym in honor of Ralph ‘Coach’ Quesinberry.  

Coach was the Physical Education teacher, as well as coach for many sports and was also the athletic director. He started teaching in 1946 and retired in 1980.

A new Language Arts building was also added in 1961.  This was a separate building from the High School.  Its function has changed over the years and is now utilized as the cafeteria and commons area.

In 1968 the High School campus footprint was increased to encompass the buildings you see today.

The separate buildings were all connected and additional classrooms, library and office space were added. The Shop area and Art section were also added at this time. 

Chagrin Falls High School’s Lasting Legacy

Today, the legacy of Chagrin Falls High School continues through the district’s tradition of educational excellence and its ongoing commitment to serving students and families throughout the Chagrin Valley.