When Leetonia was started, there were 4 county schools in the area, Maple Run, 1 mile to the south on the Grafton Road; the rural log school on the Betz section about half-way between Washington Street and the section line; Cherry Fork School in Fairfield Twp. 1 mile east of the section line, and the school at Washingtonville.

The first school opened in the village was a private school opened for a few wealthy families.  Before 1870 a public school had been built on Walnut Street between Summit and Wood Street.  In 1870, a public school was built for the south side at 301 Ridge Street which has been converted to a dwelling house.  In 1872, the school board decided to build a real school and establish education on a basis equal to or better than the surrounding towns.  It called for a large 3 story brick building and was built on the north side of High Street and the grounds reached from Elm Street to Oak Street and it cost between $30 and $35,000.  It was an imposing village building and the view from the third story windows was a panorama of the country for miles around in every direction.  The first graduation class in 1880 consisted of two girls and one boy.

The Catholics had their own parochial school from the beginning.  It was discontinued around the turn of the century, but was built new and reoccupied in 1924.

In 1929, the new Leetonia Consolidated School District was organized, taking in the Washingtonville schools and five rural school districts, Maple Run, Mt. Vernon, Mt. Nebo, Fairview and Jersey Ridge.  This consolidation was bitterly opposed by some in every district who objected strenuously to "bussing" which was a new thing in Leetonia.  Many thought the Columbiana County System was "good enough".

Much credit for the high standing of the Leetonia Schools must go to the progressive school boards we have had.  Many noteworthy men and women have gone out from the Leetonia Schools.

Taken from John Worman's Salem Township History and The Story of Leetonia

When the old Leetonia High School was torn down, a local resident saved the pillars and they remain in his family at various locations in the county.  In 1937, a new Leetonia High School was built between Walnut & Chestnut Streets, running north and south between Summit and Wood Streets and torn down in 2002.  In 1958 Orchard Hill was opened to students grades 1-8.  In addition, a small, 4 unit building was built on the old South Side School site.  

On September 4, 2002 a brand new K-12 school campus was opened at 450 Walnut Street.  Located just north of the Orchard Hill School site.  It was built to replace the decaying Leetonia High School, Orchard Hill School, and the Washingtonville School.  To save as much of our history as possible, a committee formed to Save the Memorial Bell Tower that was dedicated in 1952.  It's new location will be the main entrance to the football stadium and sports complex located to the west of the school campus.

The first Leetonia Football Team was established in 1906.  The original school colors were red & black and an original flag on display at the new Leetonia School Campus in the Alumni case along with other historical LHS items.