The residents of Smithville recognized the need for their own high school and the consolidation of local grade schools under one roof. Thus, Smithville High School was established in 1910, constructed by contractor and local resident George Gaither. The original section was a white wooden building (no photograph exists) that later received two brick-covered wings, transforming it into a magnificent structure.

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The first graduate of SHS was Maude J. Harrell, who completed her studies in 1913. The following year, in 1914, the school celebrated its first class of six graduates.

Tragically, in February 1936, the school caught fire. During the recovery period, students were taught in various locations such as Red Men Hall, the Smithville depot, local churches, and even the back of grocery stores, while the senior class completed their education at Indiana University. The current two-story limestone building was erected, with classes commencing in 1938.

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As the population grew, grades 3, 4, 5, and 6 were taught in Red Men Hall, while grades 1 and 2 were held in the basement of the high school.

In the 1959-1960 school year, Ben Jerrells initiated the construction of additional classrooms for grades 1-6 to be integrated into the existing two-story building. This expansion included a cafeteria, restrooms, administrative offices, a trophy case, and a brand-new state-of-the-art gymnasium, with beams manufactured in Oregon and shipped to the site. Robert Snoddy oversaw the construction.