Male was founded in 1856, being the oldest high school west of the Allegheny Mountains.

Since it has moved to this location, the school has won two U.S. Department of Education Blue Ribbon awards.

The adjoining Gheens Academy, which opened in 1983, was previously Prestonia Elementary School.

All students participate in the College Preparatory Program so as to aid in a smooth the transition to higher education.

One of the stipulations is the successful completion (i.e., receiving a grade of "C" or its equivalent) in 6 AP courses in the areas of English, science/mathematics, foreign language, and elective.

Their football team is a perennial state power, and in addition to its long-running rivalry with duPont Manual High School, Male is also a close rival with St. Xavier High School, with the annual contest usually determining the fate of the district champion; however, due to the state's realignment of high school football into a six-class system starting in 2007–08, Male also has a rivalry with Trinity High School in football.

It is named in memory of the schools alumni who have died in World War II.