Kelso High School is the comprehensive high school for the Kelso School District in Cowlitz County, on the east bank of the Cowlitz River across from Longview. It enrolls roughly 1,450 students and competes as the Hilanders in the Greater St. Helens League at the 3A classification, with a tartan-and-bagpipes Scottish identity reflecting the heritage of Kelso's founding settlers.
The school's signature rivalry is the football "Battle of the Plaid" against R.A. Long High School in Longview, a series that has been played more than 90 times. Kelso participates in the second-largest classification of WIAA schools and fields full slates in football, basketball, wrestling, baseball, track, and soccer. Notable graduates include Tommy Lloyd, head men's basketball coach at the University of Arizona, and former MLB pitcher Trevor May.
Kelso voters approved a multi-year replacement educational programs and operations levy in February 2024, with funding rising from $8.5 million in 2024 to $11.5 million in 2027 - covering school safety, athletics, and the district's Family and Community Resource Center, which Kelso officials note represents about 12.6 percent of the operating budget.
Source: WA ERDC Graduate Outcomes.
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