Originally established as a 3-year high school in 1888, Plainfield High School has been serving students within the larger Plainfield community for over 130 years. The school, like all small districts over the past century, has undergone significant changes since the first graduating class of 4 students in 1891. During this time, however, the values and traditions established over the years continue to foster pride among the student body and wider school community.

Although there have been numerous challenges, including an F5 tornado that destroyed the high school in August of 1990, the Plainfield community has continually rebuilt itself. In 2001, Plainfield High School officially changed its name to Plainfield High School – Central Campus to accommodate the opening of another District 202 high school. Because of unprecedented growth over the next seven years, the district would add two additional high schools. With each opening of a new school, further challenges were met due to the fluctuating populations of students and staff between the schools.

Regardless of the changes over the years, there consistently exists an attitude of service to others. Whether it is called Plainfield High School, Plainfield High School – Central Campus, Plainfield Central High School, or just simply Central, the core mission of the building remains the same: To provide students with a positive experience and a quality education that prepares them for their futures.