History of the Baldwin Park Unified School District

Early Beginnings (1882-1927)
In September 1882, the first schoolhouse was constructed at the southeast corner of North Maine and Los Angeles Avenues. Opening in 1884, it featured two rows of double seats, a central aisle, and a heating stove. Mr. Frazier was the first teacher.
 
The Vineland School District was established in April 1888. The first Board of Trustees took office on July 1, 1888, and Miss Jessie Washburn was elected as the first teacher. The original school building was sold in 1890, and a new school was built the same year, employing Miss Ellen Lang and Miss Venna O. Finney.
 
In 1910, Vineland joined the Covina Union High School District. The Vineland School District changed its name to Baldwin Park School District in 1914. By 1924, another school was built, and in 1930, it was named Margaret Heath School after its first principal.
 
Growth and Development (1939-1968)
Kenmore School was constructed in 1939. During WWII, the District provided Early Childhood Education programs for families involved in the war effort. Post-war growth led to the construction of new schools in the 1950s and 1960s, including Baldwin Park High School in 1954 and Olive School in 1968.
 
Modernization and Expansion (2000s-Present)
In the early 2000s, the District modernized its facilities, including a state-of-the-art science and engineering building at Sierra Vista High, new buildings at Geddes Elementary and North Park Continuation High, and upgraded football stadiums and performing arts centers.
 
Today, Baldwin Park Unified School District proudly serves the community with:
  • 8 TK-5 elementary schools
  • 3 middle schools (6th-8th grade)
  • 1 K-8 STEM Academy
  • 2 comprehensive high schools
  • 1 continuation high school
  • An adult education center (BPACE)
  • An Early Childhood Education (ECE) program
 
Early Childhood Education (ECE)
Our ECE program offers Preschool, Early Head Start, and Head Start at various locations, including a children's center named after Rachel Holliday, a dedicated community member and longtime director.
 
Baldwin Park Adult and Community Education (BPACE)
Established in 1960, BPACE is a leading adult school offering award-winning programs in adult basic education, English as a second language, and career technical education. BPACE partners with local businesses to provide hands-on internships and job skills training.
 
Mission
The Baldwin Park Unified School District is committed to ensuring high achievement for all learners, from early childhood to adult education.