Donald H. Eichhorn Middle School is a place where tradition, innovation, and a strong sense of community come together to create an exceptional educational experience for students in grades six, seven, and eight. DHEMS opened in 1965 as Lewisburg Area Junior High School. The innovative design of the school allowed for flexibility, with four clusters of classrooms separated by moving walls, and the cafeteria, stage, and gymnasium connected and able to be opened for unique programming.
In the late 1960s, and again in the 1990s, the school was expanded due to rising enrollment numbers. Classrooms were added to align with enrollment and organizational realignment, with our building serving as a grades six through eight and five through eight school at different time periods between the 1960s and 1990s.
In 2002, our school was renamed and dedicated to Dr. Donald H. Eichhorn, a pioneering educator and former LASD superintendent whose vision helped shape the foundation of the American middle school model. Dr. Eichhorn believed that early adolescence was a critical time for nurturing intellectual, emotional, and social growth. His work inspired a nationwide movement toward middle-level education, and his impact continues to be felt within our school culture, curriculum, and commitment to ensuring students can belong, explore, and learn.
On numerous occasions, DHEMS has been recognized as a Blue Ribbon School and consistently ranks among the top middle schools in Pennsylvania—thanks to hardworking students, a dedicated staff, supportive families, and a school community that values excellence and equity in education. We’re proud of our positive school climate, supported by a strong PBIS (Positive Behavioral Interventions and Supports) program, a commitment to inclusivity, and long-standing community partnerships. Our music department has earned repeated recognition, contributing to the district’s ongoing status as one of the nation’s Best Communities for Music Education. Donald H. Eichhorn Middle School is more than just a school building. It’s a place where students are encouraged to explore their interests, challenge themselves academically, and grow into thoughtful, kind, and capable young people.