Oakland Mills High School was established in 1973 as one of the first high schools to serve the planned community of Columbia, Maryland, established by James Rouse and his company, The Rouse Company in 1967 in Howard County, midway between Baltimore and Washington, D.C.

The choir, band, and orchestra are consistently given high ratings at various adjudications and festivals, including the annual WBAL Kids Campaign concert held at the school.

The Oakland Mills High School Chamber Singers are an active ensemble in their community.

Oakland Mills has participated twice in the Baltimore area Critics and Awards Program for High School Students (the "Cappies").

The 2005 show, Footloose was nominated for 11 awards, winning two (Ensemble in a Musical and Cameo Actress).

The school is also home to over 30 clubs and organizations, including Howard County's only Air Force JROTC program.

The team also had a surge of championships around the start of the 21st century, including some narrow victories over Glenelg High School.