In the quiet town of Dunsmuir, where the mountains meet the forest, education has long stood as a symbol of endurance and growth. Generations have passed through its halls, carrying forward the spirit of a small community deeply connected to both learning and the land. Schools here aren’t just places of study; they are the heart of the town, shaping futures while honoring the past.
Dunsmuir High School is one such institution with a story that begins more than a century ago. Established in 1911, the school’s first classes were held in a simple home site, a humble start for what would become a cornerstone of education in the region. Over time, the vision for the school expanded along with the needs of its students. Today, Dunsmuir High School stands on 165 acres of forested land, a campus that reflects both its roots and its commitment to growth.
The two-story building houses 11 classrooms, a computer lab, a library, a multi-media arts studio, a woodshop, a weight room, and a gymnasium. These spaces speak to a balanced philosophy, one that values academic learning as much as creativity, hands-on skills, and physical wellness. The school’s mission has always been simple yet profound: to provide a strong education while nurturing personal development and community pride.
Over the decades, the school has evolved from a small local school into a modern, dynamic learning environment. Its progress mirrors the resilience and resourcefulness of the community it serves. What began as a few students gathered in a home has grown into an institution surrounded by forest, filled with opportunities, and guided by a vision that continues to shape young minds in meaningful ways.
Academic Excellence in a Close-Knit Community
Dunsmuir High School is part of a unique single-school district that serves grades nine through twelve within the city of Dunsmuir. This structure allows the school to maintain a close connection with its students and community, ensuring that every learner receives the attention and support they need. With smaller class sizes and a dedicated staff, education here feels personal. Teachers know their students by name, and learning becomes a shared journey rather than a routine process.
Academically, Dunsmuir High School blends tradition with innovation. The school offers on-campus, in-person college preparatory courses designed to prepare students for higher education while developing critical thinking and problem-solving skills. College and career support is available through partnerships such as Upward Bound at Simpson University, helping students plan their paths beyond graduation.
Students also benefit from concurrent enrollment opportunities through the College of the Siskiyous, allowing them to earn college credits while still in high school. For those seeking flexible learning options, online coursework is available through Edgenuity, expanding access to specialized subjects and independent study.
Beyond academics, Dunsmuir High School provides Career Technical Education (CTE) Pathway courses that reflect real-world skills and local opportunities. Programs in Culinary Arts, Computer Science, and Construction Trades give students hands-on experience in growing industries. These pathways are more than electives; they are stepping stones that connect classroom learning to meaningful careers.
Together, these academic offerings create a well-rounded educational experience, equipping students to thrive in college, careers, and life while remaining deeply connected to the supportive community that raised them.
Leadership with Vision and Heart
At the center of Dunsmuir High School’s continued success is a leadership team that values both tradition and progress. Superintendent Ray Kellar has long been a guiding force in shaping the school’s culture of care, community, and academic excellence. Having served as Superintendent and Principal until June 30, 2025, his leadership has been defined by a deep understanding of what it means to nurture students in a small-town setting where every individual matters.
As he transitions into retirement, his influence continues to echo through the halls and hearts of the Dunsmuir community. Under his guidance, the school strengthened its academic offerings, modernized facilities, and reinforced the belief that education is not just about textbooks, but about personal growth and community connection.
Taking up the mantle of Principal is Jacob Mekeel, who brings a fresh perspective and a shared commitment to the school’s vision. His leadership marks the next chapter in Dunsmuir High School’s journey, one rooted in collaboration, respect, and the belief that every student has potential waiting to be discovered.
Together, their message to students and families remains clear: Dunsmuir High School is more than a place to earn a diploma. It is a place to build confidence, develop purpose, and prepare for a future shaped by integrity and lifelong learning.
A Personalized Approach to Every Learner
With only 39 students and a community of about 1,700 residents, Dunsmuir High School stands out for its deeply personal approach to education. The school’s small size is one of its greatest strengths, allowing teachers and staff to truly know each student and their family. This close connection helps educators understand not only academic needs but also the personal and cultural backgrounds that shape each learner’s experience.
The school’s staff takes pride in being closely tied to the community it serves. They actively listen, observe, and adapt to the pulse of student life, ensuring that education remains relevant and meaningful. Lessons are tailored to different learning styles, giving every student a fair chance to succeed, whether they thrive through hands-on projects, discussion-based learning, or independent study.
This approach extends beyond the classroom. Teachers and mentors work together to create an environment where students feel seen, supported, and encouraged to dream beyond high school. By focusing on individual strengths and fostering real-world readiness, Dunsmuir High School ensures that each graduate leaves with not only a diploma but also the confidence and experience needed for success in college, careers, and life beyond their small mountain town.
Building Strong Connections with the Community
For Dunsmuir High School, education has always been more than what happens inside a classroom. It is a shared effort built on relationships with families, local organizations, and civic partners who all play a role in helping students grow. The school believes that communication is the foundation of this connection. Every activity, event, and new initiative is shared openly with the community so that families feel informed and involved in their children’s education.
The school regularly hosts community gatherings, family nights, and student showcases that invite everyone to participate in the learning process. These moments bring a sense of pride and belonging, reminding the town that Dunsmuir High School is not just a place of study but a vital part of community life.
Partnerships with local businesses and civic organizations further strengthen this connection. They provide resources, mentorship, and support that open new opportunities for students. Together, these relationships create a circle of collaboration where education becomes a community achievement.
By keeping communication genuine and involvement continuous, Dunsmuir High School sustains a culture where learning is supported by everyone who calls Dunsmuir home.
A Vibrant Campus Life that Encourages Growth
Life at Dunsmuir High School is full of energy, teamwork, and creativity. The campus offers students a balance of academics and activities that help them grow into confident, well-rounded individuals. Sports play a big part in this experience. Students take pride in representing the school in football, volleyball, basketball, golf, tennis, baseball, and softball. Each sport teaches discipline, leadership, and the value of working toward a shared goal.
Beyond athletics, Dunsmuir High School provides a variety of clubs that encourage students to explore their interests and develop new skills. From chess and robotics to art, music, and the Tiger Community Outreach program, every student can find a place where they belong. These clubs bring students together to learn, create, and make a difference in their community.
The school also runs an after-school program designed to support both academic and social development. It offers tutoring, classroom assistance, and additional club activities that give students extra opportunities to learn and connect.
Through its mix of sports, clubs, and enrichment programs, Dunsmuir High School ensures that student life is active, inclusive, and inspiring, a place where every student can discover their strengths and enjoy the journey of growing together.
A Team That Leads with Care and Purpose
At Dunsmuir High School, leadership feels personal. The school operates with a small but deeply dedicated team that functions more like a family than an institution. At the head of this close-knit group is the Superintendent and Principal, supported by a Lead Teacher, seven additional teachers, two custodian-drivers, and two office staff members. Each role is vital, contributing to the smooth daily operation of the school while maintaining an atmosphere of trust and belonging.
Because of the school’s small size, every staff member knows each student by name. This connection allows teachers and administrators to notice when a student needs encouragement, guidance, or simply someone to listen. The team’s approach is rooted in genuine care, balanced with high expectations for responsibility and respect.
Teachers collaborate closely, sharing ideas and responsibilities to ensure that every student receives the attention they deserve. Support staff play an equally important role, creating a safe, organized, and welcoming environment. This family-like structure defines Dunsmuir High School’s identity. It creates a culture where education is personal, accountability is shared, and every student’s success is seen as the collective achievement of the entire team.
Equity and Opportunity for Every Student
Dunsmuir High School is committed to ensuring that every student, regardless of background, has the same opportunities to learn, grow, and succeed. With a small student body, the school can focus on the individual, making sure that each learner receives the attention, support, and resources they need to thrive. Teachers and staff take pride in creating a learning environment where every student feels valued and included.
The school operates with the expectation that all students will graduate prepared for the next steps in life, whether that is higher education, vocational training, or entering the workforce. Academic programs, extracurricular activities, and career pathways are designed to be accessible to everyone, allowing students to explore their interests and talents fully.
Support at Dunsmuir High School goes beyond academics. Staff and teachers actively guide students to develop confidence, independence, and the skills needed to take advantage of opportunities in the wider world. By fostering an environment of equality and encouragement, the school ensures that every student is positioned to succeed and build a future where they can support themselves and contribute meaningfully to their communities.
Comprehensive Student Support and Enrichment
Dunsmuir High School goes beyond academics to provide a wide range of support and enrichment opportunities that help students explore their interests and plan for the future. The school organizes annual college tours, typically lasting three days and including visits to four to six campuses, giving students firsthand exposure to higher education options. On-campus college and career fairs, as well as local campus visits, provide additional guidance and networking opportunities.
Students also participate in workshops, Upward Bound trips, and athletic events at both professional and college levels. Cultural experiences, such as trips to the Ashland Shakespearean Theater, and community service projects, connect learning with real-world experiences. STEM events, forestry challenges, and fun activities like water park visits or programs with local elementary schools ensure a balance of engagement, skill-building, and enjoyment. These programs equip students with knowledge, confidence, and the tools to succeed in life beyond high school.
Looking Ahead: Preparing Students for Lifelong Success
Dunsmuir High School is focused on expanding opportunities that prepare students for life beyond graduation. One of the school’s key initiatives in recent years has been the growth of concurrent enrollment programs with local colleges. These programs allow students to earn college credit while completing their high school education, giving them a head start on higher education. Some students leave high school with a semester or even a full year of college completed, and currently, two sophomores aim to graduate with an associate degree alongside their high school diploma.
The school continues to support these ambitious goals by providing guidance, resources, and encouragement for students to pursue advanced learning. This approach reflects a broader commitment to fostering lifelong learning, post-secondary success, and personal growth. By investing in these initiatives, Dunsmuir High School ensures that every student has the tools, knowledge, and confidence to thrive in college, careers, and beyond.
Quotes
“We expect that each one will graduate and move on into a world where they will be prepared to support and gain opportunity for themselves.”
