Oneonta, New York, is a city in Otsego County, located in Central New York State. The Oneonta City School District is comprised of the City of Oneonta, Town of Oneonta, and portions of the towns of Laurens, Maryland, Milford, and Davenport and spans approximately 49 square miles. This beautiful region of Central New York State was initially inhabited by the Iroquois and other Native American tribes. European colonists began settling in the area in the late 18th century, and a township here was officially established in 1830. 

 

The construction of the Delaware and Hudson Railroad in the mid-19th century played a significant role in the area's growth and development. Oneonta became a hub for education with the State Normal School (now SUNY Oneonta) founding in 1889 and Hartwick College founded in 1928. Over the years, it has evolved into a vibrant community with a mix of education, culture, and outdoor recreation.

 

The school district's educational roots can be traced back to a humble one-room cabin that stood where Muller Plaza now occupies on Main Street in downtown Oneonta. Although there is no record notating when it was built, research suggests that that cabin was built in the 1790s. There is record of its use as a school as early as 1803.

In 1869, a Union School was established in the city, offering education to students from various grades. In 1874, mandatory education was established, and the school system evolved over time. In 1924, the Oneonta City School District was officially formed. This consolidation brought together various smaller schools under a single administrative umbrella.

 

Providing a rigorous and opportunity-filled education to the students residing in this area has been in continuous operation since that humble one-room schoolhouse cabin was created. The Oneonta City School District currently employs approximately 355 staff members. The District is comprised of three elementary schools: Greater Plains (K-5), Riverside (K-5), and Valleyview (K-5). The middle and high schools are located on East Street in Oneonta. Our current enrollment is approximately 1700 students.

The District's history reflects the ongoing commitment of an incredibly dedicated staff to providing quality education and preparing students for the challenges of the modern world.