History
Venice High School had its beginnings in 1911 when the first Gondoliers held classes in the old lagoon bathhouse on Windward and Second Streets, which was rented until a school building could be built. There were 52 students in the school and 8 faculty members, and when graduation time arrived, students and faculty proudly witnessed the commencement ceremony for the graduation class of one member.In 1913, the 29-acre site on which the school still operates in, was purchased, and in September of 1924 the school moved to its current location.
The matter of moving into the new school was rushed due to the burning of the old bathhouse. Athletes, it was reported, worked hard building a fence for the field in order to earn enough money to buy their Gym suits.
In 1917, Mr. E.W Clark became principal of the Venice Union Polytechnic High School is it was then called. Also, the tennis courts were built and the flagpole was purchased for $1000.
Two years later, the grandstand was added and the athletic field was dedicated. In 1923 the Boys' Gym was completed, and in 1925 the school was annexed to the city of Los Angeles and its name changed to Venice High School. The shops were added in 1930 and the beautiful brick buildings were the pride of the community.
On March 10, 1933 Venice was critically damaged by the Long Beach Earthquake. For a period of two years, classes were held in hastily constructed tents with "school going on as usual".
On January 22, 1935 ground was broken for the new modern buildings that still are standing today. These streamlined, earthquake resistant buildings were welcomed by both faculty and student body and has withstood the test of time. Venice High was involved in numerous WPA Projects, including the murals found in the library.
In 1938 after 19 years of service Mr. Edward W. Clark retired as Principal of Venice High School. Following Mr. Clark in succession were Miss Clementina De Forest Griffon, Mr. Raymond E. Pollick and Mr. William Goodwin, principals who witnessed educational growth and advancement preceding and during the World War II period.
In February, 1945, Mr. Homer K. Watson assumed his duties as principal of Venice High School. His untiring energy and leadership have done much to make Venice High School one of the outstanding secondary schools in the country.
In September, 1950, Venice High School became a three-year instead of a six-year high school. This semester also marked the period of beautification in the Venice High Campus. The Junior lawn was put in, as were the new horticultural areas on Walgrove, and the grass area throughout the campus whatever the new blacktop did not cover. Work was begun in earnest on the new Boys' Gymnasium, which was one of the best equipped Gymnasiums in the country at the time. This gym was completed by September, 1952.
From a small beginning, Venice High School now provides its students with high scholastic standards, a well-rounded social program, a fine athletic program and an opportunity to participate in student government to prepare them to accept their responsibilities in their community and national life.
