The Hermiston School District is the largest school district in Eastern Oregon, exceeding 5,200 students, and continues to experience steady growth. It serves students in grades kindergarten through 12 with a broad range of programs from basic skills to vocational opportunities to advanced placement classes. The school district includes a 9-12 senior high school, two 6-8 middle schools, five K-5 elementary schools, and one alternative school and a robust online learning program option for students and families. 

Support for the school district has been strong from the community. In 2001 voters approved a $39 million building program which included the construction of a new high school, Desert View Elementary School, and renovations at Highland Hills Elementary. The voters also approved a $69.9 million bond in 2008. The bond served to replace Armand Larive Middle School (built in 1936), West Park Elementary (built in 1950), and Sunset Elementary (built in 1957). For more information about the bond, click here.

The District employs about 280 teachers, 16 administrators and 210 support staff, making it one of the largest employers in the city. Serving some 22,000 residents in Hermiston and the surrounding communities, around 34 percent of the total population is of Hispanic origin. The athletic program includes football, basketball, volleyball, baseball, track, tennis, wrestling, swimming, soccer, and softball. Activities available include color guard, dance team, marching band, pep band, debate, rally, vocal music, FFA, DECA, and FBLA.

The city of Hermiston is located in northeastern Oregon, just south of the Oregon-Washington border. There are about 15,800 residents within the Hermiston city limits, and the unique geographical area offers an extended growing season and a variety of agricultural crops and products. The immediate Hermiston area has been able to diversify its economy with food processing, cold storage, warehousing and distribution facilities. In addition, Hermiston’s close proximity to the Columbia River Gorge and the surrounding Blue Mountains make it an ideal place for outdoor activities.