Then and Now

A look at how MHS has changed over the past 100 years.

Automotive Shop

As the need for automotive repair people has grown over the years, automotive training has been a staple in the MHS career technical program.

Then: Students repair cars in the early days.

Now: Using new technology, students maintain automobiles.

Kitchen

The idea of a central kitchen to prepare wholesome foods for the entire School community goes back to 1917.

Then: An early view of the Central Kitchen at the Main, located just behind the Homestead.

Now: Students show their appreciation to kitchen staff with a surprise visit.

Cheerleading

From the all male high school cheerleading squad to the newest program that includes elementary girls, students support school spirit at athletic events.

Then: An all male spirit squad.

Now: MHS youngest students give shout outs.

Culinary Arts

The current culinary arts program can trace its roots to an earlier baking and candy making vocational program and even further back to Milton Hershey’s own experience as an apprentice candy maker in his youth.

Then: Students making candy as part of their vocational training.

Now: Culinary students make clever displays.

Kinderhaus

Kinderhaus opened on June 1, 1912 as the first student home dedicated solely to the housing of students.

Then: The first students at Kinderhaus (children’s home).

Now: Current home to the Department of School History.

In the Classroom

From long ago until today, students still enjoy gathering around staff for story time.

Then: Students gather outdoors for a story.

Now: Story time with Pre-K students at Memorial Hall.

Athletics

From a student home basement to the Copenhaver Gym, intramural competitions among homes is an old tradition adapted to the 21st century.

Then: The basement of an old student home is the setting for a game.

Now: The Copenhaver Center has
space for intramurals.

In the Student Home

Now, as in the past, the MHS supports student participation in hobbies and cocurricular activities.

Then: Building model cars was a favorite pastime.

Now: Students build with Lego's and computer chips.

Transportation

Trolleys, buses, and vans have all been used to transport students to and from school and to various on and off campus activities.

Then: School bus waiting to transport students to Memorial Hall.

Now: Student home vans get students
to where they need to go.

Swimming

Aquatic programming has been a mainstay in the MHS curriculum.

Then: Students line up for a swim lesson.

Now: All elementary students
learn to swim.