History of Building

Papillion La Vista High School, home of the Monarchs, has a rich history dating back to 1876. Proudly displaying maroon and gold as its colors, the school's heritage reflects the growth and evolution of the Papillion-La Vista community.

The school's journey began with a single brick building serving all 12 grades. After several relocations and expansions, the first dedicated high school opened in 1971 at 402 East Centennial Road, initially serving grades 9 through 12. In 1987, La Vista was officially added to the district, and the school's name changed to Papillion La Vista High School, reflecting the merger of these two communities.

Over the decades, PLHS has undergone numerous expansions and renovations to accommodate its growing student population and evolving educational needs. Significant additions include a pool and classrooms (1975), an auditorium, track, and football stadium (1983), and a new education wing (1991). In 2003, further expansions added new classrooms, a media center, and improved athletic facilities.

The Monarch mascot, symbolized by a crown, represents the school's commitment to leadership and excellence. This commitment is evident in PLHS's strong academic programs, diverse extracurricular activities, and competitive sports teams.

PLHS has played a crucial role in the community, hosting numerous events and serving as a gathering place for local residents. The school's growth mirrored that of the district, eventually leading to the opening of a second high school, Papillion-La Vista South, in 2003.

Recent improvements include a significant addition in the fall of 2023, featuring 20 new classrooms for freshmen, a larger cafeteria, expanded locker room space, flexible learning areas, and a wing dedicated to STEM coursework.

Embodying the district's motto "Be Known for Greatness," PLHS has consistently strived for excellence in academics, athletics, and community involvement. From its first recorded graduate, Bert Wilcox in 1888, to our current graduating groups of nearly 500, the Monarch tradition of excellence continues, setting a high standard for student achievement and personal growth.