|
Organized in 1949 by volunteers of the new community of Park Forest,
District 227 opened Rich High School, now known as Rich
East, in 1953. For the first time ever, the All-American
City Award was won by a school district for the municipality which
it serves.
Rich Central
High School opened in Olympia Fields in 1961. The new building won
a citation by the Ford Foundation and was featured in the Nation’s
Schools publication as “One of the significant schools of the
future.”
Rich South
opened in Richton Park in 1972. It was named as a “School of
Excellence” by the U.S. Department of Education and has won
national recognition for its programs in substance abuse prevention,
guidance, and career counseling.
|
|
|
|
Community support is a key element in the success of District 227
schools. Rich Township voters approved an Education Fund Referendum
in 1998 which ensures a stable financial future for the high schools
well into the 21st Century.
School and community organizations work together to provide enriching
opportunities for students. A community organization coordinates
mentoring programs for students, and business partners provide job
shadowing and internship experiences. Government officials, community
groups and business people work with the district to promote the
schools and enhance positive community relations. The district sponsors
an Outstanding Business Partner of the Year Award.
The district’s strategic plan, developed and endorsed by community
members, staff students, and parents, is focusing the district’s
efforts into the 21st Century. The plan emphasizes 13 goals that
include enhanced student achievement; challenging, relevant and
balanced curriculum; positive and well-disciplined learning environment;
and community partnerships.
Together, the three Rich Township High Schools serve all or part
of the communities of Chicago Heights, Country Club Hills, Olympia
Fields, Matteson, Park Forest, Richton Park and Tinley Park. With
the continued support of these communities, High School District
227 will fulfill its commitment to create and promote life-long
learning.
|
|
