History of Mohonasen
Jan. 14, 2009
The first year: From centralization to planning for a new high school learn more
How did Mohonasen get its name?
The name "Mohonasen" was created by an eighth grade boy at Bigsbee School in 1956. The name was derived from three Indian tribes that were prevalent in the Rotterdam area: Mohawk, Onondaga and Seneca.
2008-2009:
Celebrating 50 years
In 1958, Pinewood school opened its doors—just
two years after the Rotterdam Union Free School District, the Carmen
School District and the Pinebush Common School District merged to become the Mohonasen
Central School District.
In the years before centralization, there was no secondary school in
these three districts. Students attended high school in outside
districts on a tuition basis. Immediately after centralization, the
newly-formed district underwent its first building project—additions
to the Bigsbee and Bradt schools and the construction of Pinewood, a
new 14-room elementary school. That first year there were 2,240
students in the district.
In the spring of 1960, Mohonasen's first graduating class received
diplomas—making the 2008-2009 seniors the 50th class to graduate
from the district.
