It is named after Ross S. Sterling, co-founder of Humble Oil (now part of ExxonMobil) and 31st Governor of Texas.

In 2015, the school was rated "Met Standard" by the Texas Education Agency.

[2] Sections of the city of Baytown are zoned to Sterling High School.

Previously, sections of Highlands were until the Goose Creek Memorial High School was built in 2008.

The 2014 School Membership Report shows that Sterling's ethnic breakdown includes: Elementary schools that feed into Sterling include The middle schools that feed into Sterling are Ross S. Sterling High School competes in these sports; Volleyball, Cross Country, Football, Basketball, Water Polo, Swimming, Soccer, Golf, Tennis, Track, Baseball, and Softball [3] Activities and clubs Other activities available at Ross S. Sterling High School include: Clubs available include: Sterling offers a wide range of courses.