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Home of the Cougars
Columbia High School fosters inclusive learning environments where students are inspired to discover their talents, think critically, and embrace the responsibilities of global citizenship. The renowned New Jersey high school has grown from humble roots to a nationally recognized institution of academic excellence. Known for its diversity, innovation, and vast history as the state's first high school, Columbia has been a cornerstone of the South Orange Village and Maplewood Township communities for over two centuries.
Congratulations, Graduates!
In a ceremony full of humor, heart, and hard-earned wisdom, Columbia High School’s graduating class reflected on challenges, growth, and the unforgettable journey to their final tassel turn. Read more ⇢
Columbia Ultimate Frisbee Wins State Championship
Columbia High School’s varsity ultimate frisbee teams have each won their respective New Jersey State Championships. The Open team earned its 17th title, while Sparkle Motion secured its 7th, marking four consecutive wins since 2022. Read more ⇢
Columbia Ultimate Frisbee Wins State Championship
Sparkle Motion, Columbia High School’s girls and non-binary ultimate frisbee team, just clinched its 7th New Jersey State Championship—its fourth straight since 2022. Founded in 2005 and named after a cult-classic film, the team has built a legacy of excellence, with alumni earning national titles, Player of the Year honors, and spots on Team USA. Read more ⇢
Letter from the Superintendent
Columbia High School collaborates closely with both the Maplewood and South Orange Police Departments to maintain a secure and supportive environment for all students and staff. These partnerships allow us to respond with care and to make informed decisions about how we protect and support our school community. Read more ⇢
Welcome
Columbia High School Announcements
![Boys and Girls Fencing Look Ahead to State Finals]([{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto,t_image_size_1/v1771882658/somsdk12njus/nvkgbvyknl62dsfv6sbb/IMG_5907.jpg","width":256},{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto,t_image_size_2/v1771882658/somsdk12njus/nvkgbvyknl62dsfv6sbb/IMG_5907.jpg","width":512},{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto,t_image_size_3/v1771882658/somsdk12njus/nvkgbvyknl62dsfv6sbb/IMG_5907.jpg","width":800},{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto,t_image_size_4/v1771882658/somsdk12njus/nvkgbvyknl62dsfv6sbb/IMG_5907.jpg","width":1200},{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto,t_image_size_5/v1771882658/somsdk12njus/nvkgbvyknl62dsfv6sbb/IMG_5907.jpg","width":1600},{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto,t_image_size_6/v1771882658/somsdk12njus/nvkgbvyknl62dsfv6sbb/IMG_5907.jpg","width":2200}])
Both boys' and girls' fencing teams look forward to the state championship matches on February 24th.
![Columbia Winter Track Wins First Essex County Championship in Five Years]([{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto,t_image_size_1/v1770260440/somsdk12njus/fe6ld67x3oyzssmwet7l/boystrackteam.jpg","width":256},{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto,t_image_size_2/v1770260440/somsdk12njus/fe6ld67x3oyzssmwet7l/boystrackteam.jpg","width":512},{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto,t_image_size_3/v1770260440/somsdk12njus/fe6ld67x3oyzssmwet7l/boystrackteam.jpg","width":800},{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto,t_image_size_4/v1770260440/somsdk12njus/fe6ld67x3oyzssmwet7l/boystrackteam.jpg","width":1200},{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto/v1770260440/somsdk12njus/fe6ld67x3oyzssmwet7l/boystrackteam.jpg","width":1560}])
Columbia Boys and Girls Track place first and fourth in the Essex County Championship, propelling the program to victory
![Photo by Sam Cook '29]([{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto,t_image_size_1/v1769637232/somsdk12njus/fjuuekrgokmlmzvtdbpi/DSC04043.jpg","width":256},{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto,t_image_size_2/v1769637232/somsdk12njus/fjuuekrgokmlmzvtdbpi/DSC04043.jpg","width":512},{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto,t_image_size_3/v1769637232/somsdk12njus/fjuuekrgokmlmzvtdbpi/DSC04043.jpg","width":800},{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto,t_image_size_4/v1769637232/somsdk12njus/fjuuekrgokmlmzvtdbpi/DSC04043.jpg","width":1200},{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto,t_image_size_5/v1769637232/somsdk12njus/fjuuekrgokmlmzvtdbpi/DSC04043.jpg","width":1600},{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto,t_image_size_6/v1769637232/somsdk12njus/fjuuekrgokmlmzvtdbpi/DSC04043.jpg","width":2200}])
Senior Men's Swimming star Mason Keith continues to break records.
![News from CHS]([{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto,t_image_size_1/v1761879510/somsdk12njus/somsdk12njus/lvzfisofgic6o8gpgyhd/somsd-chs-newsplaceholder.png","width":256},{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto,t_image_size_2/v1761879510/somsdk12njus/somsdk12njus/lvzfisofgic6o8gpgyhd/somsd-chs-newsplaceholder.png","width":512},{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto,t_image_size_3/v1761879510/somsdk12njus/somsdk12njus/lvzfisofgic6o8gpgyhd/somsd-chs-newsplaceholder.png","width":800},{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto,t_image_size_4/v1761879510/somsdk12njus/somsdk12njus/lvzfisofgic6o8gpgyhd/somsd-chs-newsplaceholder.png","width":1200},{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto/v1761879510/somsdk12njus/somsdk12njus/lvzfisofgic6o8gpgyhd/somsd-chs-newsplaceholder.png","width":1500}])
Make sure to check out the CHS 26-27 Program of Studies, which has been updated and is ready for your perusal. In addition, the Counseling Department and building administration have held several evening programs to assist in this process. Please review the recording and slide decks linked below:
![A large orchestra performs on stage, with a dramatic backdrop featuring the word "Toreador" and a bullfighting scene.]([{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto,t_image_size_1/v1766514101/somsdk12njus/xzxz6xk0skb6cc47hmzw/25-12-23somsd-photochs-chineseaward01.png","width":256},{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto,t_image_size_2/v1766514101/somsdk12njus/xzxz6xk0skb6cc47hmzw/25-12-23somsd-photochs-chineseaward01.png","width":512},{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto,t_image_size_3/v1766514101/somsdk12njus/xzxz6xk0skb6cc47hmzw/25-12-23somsd-photochs-chineseaward01.png","width":800},{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto,t_image_size_4/v1766514101/somsdk12njus/xzxz6xk0skb6cc47hmzw/25-12-23somsd-photochs-chineseaward01.png","width":1200},{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto,t_image_size_5/v1766514101/somsdk12njus/xzxz6xk0skb6cc47hmzw/25-12-23somsd-photochs-chineseaward01.png","width":1600},{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto/v1766514101/somsdk12njus/xzxz6xk0skb6cc47hmzw/25-12-23somsd-photochs-chineseaward01.png","width":1920}])
The Columbia High School Chinese Program has been named an Outstanding Chinese Program by the National Chinese Language Association of Secondary-Elementary Schools, earning national recognition for its academic rigor, cultural engagement, and sustained growth.
![A large orchestra performs on stage, with a dramatic backdrop featuring the word "Toreador" and a bullfighting scene.]([{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto,t_image_size_1/v1766015217/somsdk12njus/nul2euct0jdej16p6pid/25-12-14somsd-photoMetroWest-Trip03.png","width":256},{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto,t_image_size_2/v1766015217/somsdk12njus/nul2euct0jdej16p6pid/25-12-14somsd-photoMetroWest-Trip03.png","width":512},{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto,t_image_size_3/v1766015217/somsdk12njus/nul2euct0jdej16p6pid/25-12-14somsd-photoMetroWest-Trip03.png","width":800},{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto,t_image_size_4/v1766015217/somsdk12njus/nul2euct0jdej16p6pid/25-12-14somsd-photoMetroWest-Trip03.png","width":1200},{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto,t_image_size_5/v1766015217/somsdk12njus/nul2euct0jdej16p6pid/25-12-14somsd-photoMetroWest-Trip03.png","width":1600},{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto/v1766015217/somsdk12njus/nul2euct0jdej16p6pid/25-12-14somsd-photoMetroWest-Trip03.png","width":1920}])
The exhibits prompted conversations around the consequences of hatred and the responsibilities that accompany remembering. Principal Sanchez joined students on the trip, standing alongside them as they took in the experience and engaged in thoughtful conversation throughout the day.
![A large orchestra performs on stage, with a dramatic backdrop featuring the word "Toreador" and a bullfighting scene.]([{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto,t_image_size_1/v1764747287/somsdk12njus/c1gy7hgev6fr45se2zwg/25-12-03somsd-photoCHS-MentalHealth03.png","width":256},{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto,t_image_size_2/v1764747287/somsdk12njus/c1gy7hgev6fr45se2zwg/25-12-03somsd-photoCHS-MentalHealth03.png","width":512},{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto,t_image_size_3/v1764747287/somsdk12njus/c1gy7hgev6fr45se2zwg/25-12-03somsd-photoCHS-MentalHealth03.png","width":800},{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto,t_image_size_4/v1764747287/somsdk12njus/c1gy7hgev6fr45se2zwg/25-12-03somsd-photoCHS-MentalHealth03.png","width":1200},{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto,t_image_size_5/v1764747287/somsdk12njus/c1gy7hgev6fr45se2zwg/25-12-03somsd-photoCHS-MentalHealth03.png","width":1600},{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto/v1764747287/somsdk12njus/c1gy7hgev6fr45se2zwg/25-12-03somsd-photoCHS-MentalHealth03.png","width":1920}])
Students were introduced to trustworthy resources and the importance of turning to trusted adults when navigating challenging moments.
![A large orchestra performs on stage, with a dramatic backdrop featuring the word "Toreador" and a bullfighting scene.]([{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto,t_image_size_1/v1764705217/somsdk12njus/uovoh3bag36msukvsnsz/EvanFlemmingsingsToreador.jpg","width":256},{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto,t_image_size_2/v1764705217/somsdk12njus/uovoh3bag36msukvsnsz/EvanFlemmingsingsToreador.jpg","width":512},{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto,t_image_size_3/v1764705217/somsdk12njus/uovoh3bag36msukvsnsz/EvanFlemmingsingsToreador.jpg","width":800},{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto,t_image_size_4/v1764705217/somsdk12njus/uovoh3bag36msukvsnsz/EvanFlemmingsingsToreador.jpg","width":1200},{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto,t_image_size_5/v1764705217/somsdk12njus/uovoh3bag36msukvsnsz/EvanFlemmingsingsToreador.jpg","width":1600},{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto,t_image_size_6/v1764705217/somsdk12njus/uovoh3bag36msukvsnsz/EvanFlemmingsingsToreador.jpg","width":2200}])
The partnership between SOPAC's Arts Education department and the school district's Fine Arts Department brought this extraordinary experience to life, with a mission to inspire the next generation of musicians.
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CHS Domareki Gallery
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CHS Domareki Gallery
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CHS Domareki Gallery
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CHS Domareki Gallery
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Columbia in the News
![Columbia HS boys basketball team captures Essex County Invitational Tournament championship]([{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto,t_image_size_1/v1740679450/somsdk12njus/rjnrys32tezzshfkfrro/newsmention-essexnewsdaily.png","width":256},{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto,t_image_size_2/v1740679450/somsdk12njus/rjnrys32tezzshfkfrro/newsmention-essexnewsdaily.png","width":512},{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto,t_image_size_3/v1740679450/somsdk12njus/rjnrys32tezzshfkfrro/newsmention-essexnewsdaily.png","width":800},{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto,t_image_size_4/v1740679450/somsdk12njus/rjnrys32tezzshfkfrro/newsmention-essexnewsdaily.png","width":1200},{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto,t_image_size_5/v1740679450/somsdk12njus/rjnrys32tezzshfkfrro/newsmention-essexnewsdaily.png","width":1600},{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto/v1740679450/somsdk12njus/rjnrys32tezzshfkfrro/newsmention-essexnewsdaily.png","width":1620}])
Essex News Daily
The Cougars ran the table, as they won the ECIT championship. Columbia, seeded 11th, defeated No. 20 seed West Orange 53-32 to win the ECIT title on Feb. 21 at CHS.
![Nutley/Columbia/Bloomfield hs hockey players Christian Sherman and AJ Albanese achieve 200th career points in same game]([{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto,t_image_size_1/v1770260243/somsdk12njus/zustkfqu5agk7q8tthyn/unnamed-12.jpg","width":256},{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto,t_image_size_2/v1770260243/somsdk12njus/zustkfqu5agk7q8tthyn/unnamed-12.jpg","width":512},{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto,t_image_size_3/v1770260243/somsdk12njus/zustkfqu5agk7q8tthyn/unnamed-12.jpg","width":800},{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto/v1770260243/somsdk12njus/zustkfqu5agk7q8tthyn/unnamed-12.jpg","width":1008}])
Essex News Daily
Christian Sherman, of Columbia, and Nutley’s Angelo “AJ” Albanese, both senior captains,achieved their 200th career points in the same game.
![Jonah Patton Shimanoff, 17 — Talented Artist and Adventurer, Devoted to Friends and Family]([{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto,t_image_size_1/v1769549638/somsdk12njus/faiunfba8wawcmrixyfk/Jonah-18MB.jpg","width":256},{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto,t_image_size_2/v1769549638/somsdk12njus/faiunfba8wawcmrixyfk/Jonah-18MB.jpg","width":512},{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto,t_image_size_3/v1769549638/somsdk12njus/faiunfba8wawcmrixyfk/Jonah-18MB.jpg","width":800},{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto,t_image_size_4/v1769549638/somsdk12njus/faiunfba8wawcmrixyfk/Jonah-18MB.jpg","width":1200},{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto,t_image_size_5/v1769549638/somsdk12njus/faiunfba8wawcmrixyfk/Jonah-18MB.jpg","width":1600},{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto/v1769549638/somsdk12njus/faiunfba8wawcmrixyfk/Jonah-18MB.jpg","width":1604}])
The Village Green
No matter what was going on in his life, Jonah was empathetic and always tried to help other people first, whether it was cheering on his little league team or supporting a close friend going through a tough time.
![CHS runners impress at Magee Memorial]([{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto,t_image_size_1/v1759258163/somsdk12njus/p10x2jiqwkpubex6rbcm/CROSS-CHS-Ameli-WEB.webp","width":256},{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto,t_image_size_2/v1759258163/somsdk12njus/p10x2jiqwkpubex6rbcm/CROSS-CHS-Ameli-WEB.webp","width":512},{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto,t_image_size_3/v1759258163/somsdk12njus/p10x2jiqwkpubex6rbcm/CROSS-CHS-Ameli-WEB.webp","width":800},{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto,t_image_size_4/v1759258163/somsdk12njus/p10x2jiqwkpubex6rbcm/CROSS-CHS-Ameli-WEB.webp","width":1200},{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto,t_image_size_5/v1759258163/somsdk12njus/p10x2jiqwkpubex6rbcm/CROSS-CHS-Ameli-WEB.webp","width":1600},{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto/v1759258163/somsdk12njus/p10x2jiqwkpubex6rbcm/CROSS-CHS-Ameli-WEB.webp","width":1722}])
Essex News Daily
The Columbia High School boys and girls cross-country teams gave good efforts at the Bernie Magee Memorial Class Meet on Saturday, Sept. 20, at Greystone–Central Park in Morris Plains.
![Buchalter and Josefsberg Represent Columbia H.S. in Baseball All-Star Game]([{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto,t_image_size_1/v1751047715/somsdk12njus/r34g1ydm2r4rauxw57q9/IsaacColumbiaHSBaseball.jpg","width":256},{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto,t_image_size_2/v1751047715/somsdk12njus/r34g1ydm2r4rauxw57q9/IsaacColumbiaHSBaseball.jpg","width":512},{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto/v1751047715/somsdk12njus/r34g1ydm2r4rauxw57q9/IsaacColumbiaHSBaseball.jpg","width":770}])
Buchalter and Josefsberg Represent Columbia H.S. in Baseball All-Star Game (opens in new window/tab)
TAPinto SOMA
Two members of the Columbia High School baseball team represented the Cougars in the New Jersey Underclassmen 2025 All-Star Game last week at Arthur L. Johnson High School.
Explore Columbia High School
With top-notch educators with high expectations and a devoted community, students are fortified with self-advocacy and the confidence to flourish in life.
Cougar Athletics
Cougar Athletics is more than games at Columbia– it's a winning tradition. Sports at CHS will foster teamwork, excellence, and a competitive spirit.
Student Life @ Columbia
Extracurriculars play a large role in student growth at CHS. Every student has the space to explore their passions and discover their potential to succeed.
CHS Home & School Association ⇢
Columbia's HSA comprises hard-working parents, guardians, and faculty who pool their talents to provide practical support for the high school.
