From 1876 to 1910, McMinnville offered a two-year high school education through the Cook School (a single schoolhouse incorporating all grades).

High school students took courses on the top floor of the building.

[3] The oldest wing of the current high school opened in 1956, and has since been remodeled eleven times to accommodate the growing student population of McMinnville.

Of 459 students, 343 graduated, 60 dropped out, 3 received a modified diploma, and 53 are still in high school.

[5][6] Engineering and Aerospace Sciences Academy (EASA) is a specialized program at McMinnville High School that offers students specialized courses in engineering and aerospace science.