MORGANTOWN — Downtown Morgantown filled with cheers, marching bands and a wave of maroon and gold Wednesday evening as University High School celebrated its 2025 Homecoming Parade — marking 100 years since the school’s founding and the 100th graduating class.
Established in 1925 by West Virginia University, University High School began as the University Demonstration High School, created as a place for student teachers to practice new educational methods. The school opened its doors in the Old Tea Room at the corner of Willey and Spruce streets with just 35 students and three teachers.
As enrollment grew, UHS moved to Stewart Street and University Avenue in 1928, and by 1933, a new campus was completed on WVU’s grounds. When the university no longer needed the demonstration school in 1972, the building was turned over to the Monongalia County School System, establishing University High as Morgantown’s second public high school.
Over the decades, the school continued to evolve — from major renovations in the mid-20th century to the construction of a new campus in 2006, featuring modern classrooms, a 4,000-seat stadium and expanded athletic facilities. The original UHS building now houses Mountaineer Middle School.
During this year’s parade, the past and present came together as alumni from as far back as the 1940s and 1950s joined current students, athletes and community members in the celebration — a living reflection of a century of Hawk pride.
The celebration continues at tonight’s home football game against Connellsville. Kickoff is set for 7 p.m.
