Rich Township High School FAC Media Center Wins Competitive State Grant to Boost Social-Emotional Learning Collection RICHTON PARK, IL [October 21, 2025] — The Rich Township High School (RTHS) Fine Arts Campus (FAC) School Media Center is proud to announce it has been awarded a $2,000.00 Feed Your Need Grant from the Association of Illinois School Librarians (AISLE) / Library Book Selection Service (LBSS) Endowment Fund. RTHS FAC is one of only 26 school libraries across Illinois to receive this competitive, annual, statewide award. The grant funds must be used exclusively to purchase books and/or e-books to update an area of the collection that is outdated or does not meet curricular standards. RTHS FAC Media Center Specialist Danielle Baker successfully applied for the grant to significantly enhance the library’s Social-Emotional Learning (SEL) resources. “This grant is critical because SEL resources empower students to better understand themselves and others, build resilience, and develop healthy coping strategies,” said Baker. “In a post-pandemic educational landscape, our students are navigating unprecedented emotional and social challenges. A robust SEL collection can serve as a safe space for exploration, healing, and growth, especially for students who may not have access to mental health support outside of school.” The Feed Your Need Grant recognizes the importance of specialized library collections that support specific curricular needs and AISLE’s I-SAIL Standards. The rigorous application process required Mrs. Baker to: • Identify the specific need for the SEL materials in the current book collection. • Detail how school staff, students, parents, and the community will be involved in the project. • Outline the evaluation plan for assessing the effectiveness and use of the new book collection. The updated SEL collection will provide RTHS FAC students with timely and relevant materials to support their emotional well-being and academic success. For more information about this grant and the LBSS Endowment Fund, visit http://lbssfund.org

Rich Township High School FAC Media Center Wins Competitive State Grant to Boost Social-Emotional Learning Collection

October 21, 2025
RICHTON PARK, IL [October 21, 2025] — The Rich Township High School (RTHS) Fine Arts Campus (FAC) School Media Center is proud to announce it has been awarded a $2,000.00 F...
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Rich Township High School District 227 is proud to announce a remarkable increase in the number of students recognized as AP Scholars by the College Board. In 2025, 158 students earned the prestigious AP Scholar designation—triple the number from 2024, when 52 students achieved the honor.

Rich Township High School District Sees Significant Growth in AP Scholars

September 25, 2025
Matteson, IL — Rich Township High School District 227 is proud to announce a remarkable increase in the number of students recognized as AP Scholars by the College Board. In 2025...
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Dr. Johnnie Thomas- Superintendent of Rich Township High School District School District 227- is proud to announce the dedication of the musical arts center at the Fine Arts & Communication (FAC) campus of Rich Township High School in honor of longtime Band Director Phillip Crews. The ceremony took place on Monday, June 9, 2025, at 10:00 AM at 5000 Sauk Trail, Richton Park, IL.

A Legacy in Harmony: Rich Township Honors Band Director Phillip Crews with Musical Arts Center Dedication

June 9, 2025
Dr. Johnnie Thomas- Superintendent of Rich Township High School District School District 227- is proud to announce the dedication of the musical arts center at the Fine Arts & Comm...
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SOUTHLAND LEADERS TO OFFICIALLY PRESENT PUBLIC PLANS FOR THE FORMER RICH EAST HIGH SCHOOL CAMPUS SITE

SOUTHLAND LEADERS TO OFFICIALLY PRESENT PUBLIC PLANS FOR THE FORMER RICH EAST HIGH SCHOOL CAMPUS SITE

April 9, 2025
In a bold move to expand educational and workforce opportunities across the south suburbs, six superintendents and educational leaders representing school districts and colleges in...
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2025 Ron Edmonds Scholarship Winners

Rich Township High School Celebrates Student Success at 2025 Ron Edmonds Scholarship Banquet

March 24, 2025
On Thursday, March 20, Rich Township High School proudly participated in the 2025 Ron Edmonds Scholarship Banquet, hosted by the Superintendent's Commission for the Study of Demogr...
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4th Place photo 2025 Boys Basketball team

Rich Township Raptors Finish Historic Season with 4th Place State Finish

March 22, 2025
The Rich Township High School Boys Basketball team capped off a remarkable season last weekend by taking 4th place at the IHSA Class 4A State Finals, marking the Raptors' return to...
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Rich Township High School District 227 is proud to celebrate LeSha'ya Westbrook, a senior at the Fine Arts and Communications (FAC) Campus, for her outstanding achievements in the culinary arts. As a dedicated Culinary ProStart student, LeSha'ya's hard work and passion for the industry have earned her a $10,000 Culinary Futures scholarship, which will support her education at the Culinary Institute of America (CIA)—one of the most prestigious culinary schools in the world. LeSha'ya's journey to this remarkable accomplishment began last summer when she participated in "Millies Camp," a free culinary program hosted by the "No Matter What" organization, founded by Chef and Chicago Police Officer Kenneth Griffin. The camp, which introduces youth to the world of professional cooking, is made possible through the support of sponsors and organizations such as Culinary Futures, which has been “Funding Underserved Youth” since 2018. Impressing chefs and fellow campers with her dedication and skill, LeSha'ya was encouraged to apply for the Culinary Futures scholarship, which required an essay outlining her aspirations and future plans. Her story resonated with the selection committee, leading to her selection as a scholarship recipient. In a momentous occasion, LeSha'ya was presented with her award by none other than Chef Cat Cora, the first female Iron Chef and a graduate of the Culinary Institute of America. Chef Cora was so impressed by LeSha'ya that she personally handed her a business card, offering to put in a good word for her at CIA. As LeSha'ya continues to pursue her dreams, she is also preparing for her next challenge—competing in the ProStart Invitational Competition hosted by the National Restaurant Association on Saturday, March 8th. This prestigious event will give her and her teammates the opportunity to showcase their skills against top high school culinary programs from across the country. Rich Township High School congratulates LeSha'ya Westbrook on this incredible achievement and wishes her continued success in her culinary journey!

Rich Township Senior LeSha'ya Westbrook Earns $10,000 Culinary Scholarship and Recognition from Iron Chef Cat Cora

March 4, 2025
Rich Township High School District 227 is proud to celebrate LeSha'ya Westbrook, a senior at the Fine Arts and Communications (FAC) Campus, for her outstanding achievements in t...
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Dr. Johnnie Thomas Honored as 2025 Superintendent with Distinction at UNCF/SCSDD Gala

Dr. Johnnie Thomas Honored as 2025 Superintendent with Distinction at UNCF/SCSDD Gala

February 23, 2025
The 2025 UNCF/SCSDD Gala was an unforgettable evening filled with celebration, recognition, and a shared commitment to advancing education. The event, hosted by the Superintende...
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February 21, 2025 – The 2025 Black History Showcase was a resounding success, bringing together students from across the region to celebrate African American history, culture, and achievements. This year’s showcase featured powerful performances from Elementary School District 159, Matteson School District 162, Park Forest-Chicago Heights School District 163, Southland College Prep Charter High School, and Rich Township High School District 227. The Black History Showcase has been a signature event dedicated to fostering unity through the arts. Created by Rich Township High School District 227 Superintendent Dr. Johnnie Thomas and Southland College Prep CEO and Matteson School District 162 Superintendent Dr. Blondean Davis, the showcase continues to highlight the importance of collaboration, education, and cultural pride. What started in 2019 with approximately 150 students performing on stage has now grown into a major regional event, with over 450 students taking the stage in 2025—an incredible testament to the passion, dedication, and impact of this initiative. This year’s theme, "Soaring Together, Rising Beyond," reflected the collective strength and determination of students, educators, and the community to uplift one another and break barriers. "The Black History Showcase exemplifies the power of collaboration and the impact of arts in education," said Dr. Johnnie Thomas. "Each year, our students remind us of the importance of honoring the past while inspiring the future. Seeing them take the stage with such passion and talent is a testament to the strength of our community." Dr. Blondean Davis echoed these sentiments, emphasizing the event’s lasting impact: "This showcase is about more than just performances; it’s about instilling pride, knowledge, and a sense of belonging in our students. By working together, we show them that unity is our strength, and together, we rise beyond challenges to achieve greatness." As the sixth performance in seven years, the 2025 Black History Showcase continues to grow in influence, leaving a lasting impression on students, families, and the broader community. With its commitment to excellence and cultural appreciation, the event stands as a shining example of what can be achieved when schools come together with a shared vision.

2025 Black History Showcase Celebrates Culture, Unity, and Excellence

February 22, 2025
February 21, 2025 – The 2025 Black History Showcase was a resounding success, bringing together students from across the region to celebrate African American history, culture, and ...
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RTHS Board of Education

EDUCATION ADVOCATES, CRITICS, AND ELECTED LEADERS ALL AMAZED AND IMPRESSED BY REMARKABLE ACHIEVEMENTS OF RICH TOWNSHIP HIGH SCHOOL 227

February 12, 2025
Rich Township High School District 227 has solidified its place as one of the top-performing districts in Illinois, marking a transformative era of success under the leadership of ...
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2024 Big Dipper Champs

Rich Township Raptors Bring the Trophy Home with Big Dipper Basketball Tournament Championship

December 30, 2024
December 30, 2024– Richton Park, IL – The Rich Township Raptors have soared to historic heights, clinching the Big Dipper Basketball Tournament Championship . This epic vict...
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Student Growth with Reading Apprenticeship: Aligning Leadership, Literacy Instruction, and Professional Learning Rich Township, IL - Student Growth | Rich Township High School District 227, IL Rich Township Increasing Literacy Ninth graders at Rich Township High School District 227, IL (“RTHS”) nearly doubled their growth in reading achievement in 2023-2024. This gain took place in a community that experienced a lot of change in the early 2020s. RTHS leaders sought a way to bring teachers, administrators, staff and students together to improve student achievement through a focus on community and a common vision of success. As part of this work, they embarked on a multi-year implementation of Reading Apprenticeship and coaching with WestEd. Located in Cook County, south of Chicago, RTHS’s student population is predominantly African American and the district serves over 2,300 high school students. RTHS has been experiencing many of the challenges shared by districts all over the country since the pandemic – lower student engagement, consolidation of schools due to low attendance, students entering high school with lower proficiency in core academic subjects, and less use of collaborative and dialogue-driven teaching strategies in the classroom. To address these challenges, the RTHS set goals focused on student learning, as well as for teacher and administrator professional growth. RTHS Goals and Teacher/Admin Supports Improve students’ literacy performance and engagement in school Provide teachers and administrators shared support for three years to create a professional, positive culture for both faculty and students Engage leadership in instructional change and professional learning alongside teachers Identify specific measurable goals and related measures shared district-wide Getting Started with Reading Apprenticeship Teachers and principals work together Once RTHS determined that Reading Apprenticeship was a match for their district’s teacher professional learning and student learning goals, they embarked on a multi-year plan with WestEd to implement Reading Apprenticeship and engage in ongoing support for teacher learning and student growth. RTHS leaders identified ninth grade student achievement growth as a keystone to district-wide improvement and engaged all 100+ ninth-grade teachers and three high school leaders in professional learning. They supported their teachers to make positive, evidence-based changes in instruction using Reading Apprenticeship; as most districts do, they engaged in other interventions (one for math, one for writing, etc), but their leaders used Reading Apprenticeship to build coherence. Inclusive Planning and Support for Literacy Learning Across Disciplines and Roles Dr. Gallick points out that involving administrators, principals, and teachers together in the work has been key to their positive changes, as has been the consistent support from WestEd’s facilitators Laurie Erby and Dr. Tinaya York. These Reading Apprenticeship experts work with district leaders through the planning, adapting implementation and improvement cycles as teachers integrate practices into their existing schedules and curriculum, while still staying true to the design principles that have assured Reading Apprenticeship’s success in efficacy studies. “Having teachers and administrators involved throughout was key. They all really loved the work and being involved in designing learning opportunities in ways they hadn’t before.” Asst. Supt. Gallick School-Year Support and Well-Paced Learning Across all Subjects Following the initial Reading Apprenticeship professional learning sessions, RTHS teachers began integrating Reading Apprenticeship into their classrooms and they received support from WestEd’s expert Reading Apprenticeship coaches during the school year, and, importantly, reserved planning time. “WestEd would come out for a coaching visit, and we would all circle up and plan those two days together, so it really empowered and supported the principals and teachers.” RTHS Administrator One of Reading Apprenticeship’s norms is “Go slow at the beginning in order to go fast over the long run.” Gallick says this was in evidence – that teachers expressed appreciation for not being rushed. He and his administrator colleagues noted that more than 80% of teachers surveyed by the district about the professional learning said it was valuable – this is well above their usual trend with satisfaction rates for professional learning experiences. Improved Student Growth – in Class and on Assessments RTHS teachers report that their students’ use of academic language in class has improved, as has their ability to have more substantive, text-based dialogue in class. This change is also showing up in their reading and writing. The ninth-grade students have demonstrated exceptional growth, with practically ‘doubling their reading levels’ and achieving a 17% increase in reading and writing SAT 9 scores. This achievement surpasses that of any other grade level. Teachers have also observed a significant shift in student persistence and problem solving when facing difficult texts. As George Vlahakis, a social studies teacher, noted, I’ve seen the students much more confident, attacking texts they find ‘boring’… in all of their classes, not just mine…. They’re able to grapple and struggle; they’re okay with it and thus much more advanced than they used to be.” Social studies teacher, Vlahakis Leadership Stays the Course In line with much of the Reading Apprenticeship team’s experience, the success of the ninth-grade teachers created curiosity and excitement in their colleagues the following school year. “We are especially excited because many of the 10th grade students will be familiar with the literacy routines, thus will be starting with some of these strategies already in hand because of their 2023-4 experience with Reading Apprenticeship last year….“We are especially excited because many of the tenth-grade students will be starting with some of these strategies already in hand. We plan to stay with our three-year commitment … This was important to our principals.” Asst. Supt. Gallick So, in 2024-25 RTHS added both depth and breadth to its ongoing professional learning work. Their work includes: 9th grade teachers continue to engage with Reading Apprenticeship coaching support 10th grade teachers began Reading Apprenticeship Essentials School leadership teams engage in “Leading for Literacy” which is Reading Apprenticeship’s online and/or two-day learning experience leaders Based on their 2023-2024 success, Rich Township District 227 set goals for the future aligned with these strategies: Rich Township graph showing benchmarking success RTHS leaders, despite the many urgent issues needing their attention, were willing to make the time to assess teacher and student needs, identify solutions, articulate goals, and engage with every level of their school and community. Beyond meeting their own needs, RTHS leaders are willing to be a part of the larger education vision of our country and have made time to speak with leaders in their region, education news outlets like EdWeek, and our WestEd staff. Thank you RTHS! Everyone can meet RTHS leader Kevin Gallick and other educators in a December 4 webinar (recording will be made available on our website). Generate positive im

Student Growth with Reading Apprenticeship: Aligning Leadership, Literacy Instruction, and Professional Learning

November 22, 2024
Ninth graders at Rich Township High School District 227, IL (“RTHS”) nearly doubled their growth in reading achievement in 2023-2024. This gain took place in a community that expe...
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424 Rich Township High School Students Receive On-Site College Acceptance to Tougaloo College Rich Township High School District 227 is thrilled to announce that an incredible 424 students received on-site college acceptance to Tougaloo College during a special one-day event held at the Fine Arts and Communications (FAC) and STEM campuses. For many of these students, this marks their very first college acceptance, a monumental step toward a bright future. Tougaloo College representatives, Paul Scott, Director of Admissions and Recruitment, and Alma Scott, Enrollment Officer, were on hand to personally congratulate students and celebrate their achievements. At the STEM campus, 96 students received acceptance letters, while an impressive 230 students were admitted at the FAC campus. Jessica Watson, Post-Secondary Coordinator, reflected on the impact of the event: "It’s inspiring to see so many of our students seize this incredible opportunity. For many, this is the beginning of a life-changing journey. We are proud of their achievements and grateful to Tougaloo College for their partnership and support." The event exemplifies the district’s dedication to student success, ensuring every scholar has access to the resources and opportunities they need to thrive.

424 Rich Township High School Students Receive On-Site College Acceptance to Tougaloo College

November 18, 2024
On Thursday, November 14, 2024, Rich Township High School District 227 is thrilled to announce that an incredible 424 students received on-site college acceptance to Tougaloo Colle...
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Congratulations to the PACK Team from Rich Township High School for their outstanding performance at the prestigious PACK EXPO held at McCormick Place in Chicago! The team’s innovative approach and exceptional marketing and sales strategies earned them a well-deserved $2,500 prize, placing them among the top six finalists in the competition.

Rich Township High School PACK Team Shines at PACK EXPO, Wins $2,500 and Draws Industry Attention

November 8, 2024
Congratulations to the PACK Team from Rich Township High School for their outstanding performance at the prestigious PACK EXPO held at McCormick Place in Chicago! The team’s innov...
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Rich Township High School District's Introduction to Teaching Students Dive Into School Operations

Rich Township High School District's Introduction to Teaching Students Dive Into School Operations

November 7, 2024
Dual Credit Introduction to Teaching – This semester, students enrolled in Rich Township High School District’s Introduction to Teaching class have embarked on an immersive jour...
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Rich Township High School District 227 is dedicated to empowering every student with the literacy skills they need across all subjects. By using metacognitive tools, students not only strengthen their reading comprehension but also learn to think critically about texts in diverse content areas. Through our district’s partnership with WestEd's Reading Apprenticeship program, teachers are integrating literacy into their subject expertise, helping students become more confident, engaged readers. This whole-school approach is building a foundation for lifelong learning by ensuring that every teacher has the tools to support reading growth. To learn more about this transformative approach, read the full story on Education Week https://www.edweek.org/teaching-learning/what-happens-when-every-teacher-in-a-school-has-the-tools-to-improve-reading/2024/10

Empowering Literacy Across All Subjects at Rich Township High School District 227

October 28, 2024
Rich Township High School District 227 is dedicated to empowering every student with the literacy skills they need across all subjects. By using metacognitive tools, students not ...
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October 27, 2024, five students with a passion for baking and pastry joined forces with C*CAP at the prestigious Drake Hotel. Led by acclaimed pastry Chef Robin Johnson, they helped create a life-sized gingerbread castle, learning advanced techniques such as dough rolling, shape cutting, and butter rose piping. The students, under the expert instruction of District 227’s very own Chef Darius Bright and Chef Keith Morris, gained invaluable experience in both the preparation and execution of high-profile pastry projects.

RICH TOWNSHIP STUDENTS SHINE IN CULINARY EVENTS HOSTED BY TOP INDUSTRY PARTNERS

October 28, 2024
Rich Township High School District 227 is proud to highlight two recent opportunities that showcased the talents and dedication of our students in the culinary arts. Through partne...
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U.S. Rep. Robin Kelly, along with two other Illinois Democratic delegates, toured the halls of Rich Township High School on Thursday to view the school’s commercial-grade kitchen and food pantry. “It makes me very, very proud to represent this area,” Kelly remarked. “Many years ago I lived in this area, the town next door. My kids graduated from the school system. I’m very proud to see the school doing things like this. It’s very meaningful.” Kelly was joined by state Rep. Debbie Meyers-Martin and Matteson Mayor Sheila Chalmers-Currin on the tour, which took place just days before the Democratic National Convention opens Monday in Chicago. Cook County Commissioner Monica Gordon and Richton Park Mayor Rick Reinbold were also in attendance. The Fine Arts and Communication Campus at 5000 Sauk Trail has seen substantial renovations in recent years, creating “a space that really takes care of the community,” according to District 227 Superintendent Johnnie Thomas. Additional renovations include a television broadcasting production area, an athletic director’s office equipped with medical facilities for injury treatment, a large weight room, a gym featuring a 200-meter indoor track, and an armory for the naval cadet program. “The more attention and focus we can put to making sure that we are funded in a supportive way, and that we have the support of the community, allows for us to do great ideas,” Thomas said. “A lot of times, when people hear ‘no’ constantly, it just stifles creativity.”

Rep. Robin Kelly and Illinois Delegates Tour Renovated Rich Township High School, Highlight Community Impac

August 16, 2024
U.S. Rep. Robin Kelly, along with two other Illinois Democratic delegates, toured the halls of Rich Township High School on Thursday to view the school’s commercial-grade kitchen ...
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Two Rich Township Scholars Experience Oxford University this Summer Rich Township High School District 227 proudly announces that two of its exceptional students, Anuoluwapo Salami and Cheri Turner, had the unique opportunity to attend a prestigious summer program at Oxford University in the United Kingdom. The program provided these scholars with a platform to explore their academic passions in world-class settings, surrounded by peers and mentors from around the globe. Anuoluwapo Salami, a senior at Rich Township High School, focused on Curing Medicine and Disease during her time at Oxford. Her studies explored the latest advancements in medical research, focusing on innovative treatments and approaches to combating various diseases. Anuoluwapo’s dedication to learning and her passion for the medical field have driven her to seize this opportunity, gaining invaluable insights into the future of medicine. Cheri Turner, a sophomore at Rich Township High School, immersed herself in Business and Entrepreneurship. During the program, Cheri learned from distinguished business leaders, explored cutting-edge concepts in innovation, and developed entrepreneurial strategies. Her time at Oxford allowed her to enhance her understanding of global business practices and entrepreneurial leadership. “This opportunity to study at Oxford University is a testament to the commitment, resilience, and ambition of both Anuoluwapo and Cheri,” said Dr. Johnnie Thomas, Superintendent of Rich Township High School District 227. “Their experiences will undoubtedly shape their future endeavors, and we are incredibly proud to see our students represented at such a prestigious institution.” Rich Township High School District 227 remains committed to providing opportunities that encourage academic excellence and global exposure. These experiences empower students like Anuoluwapo and Cheri to push the boundaries of their knowledge and gain perspectives that will influence their future academic and professional pursuits.

Two Rich Township Scholars Experience Oxford University this Summer

August 9, 2024
Rich Township High School District 227 proudly announces that two of its exceptional students, Anuoluwapo Salami and Cheri Turner, had the unique opportunity to attend a prestigiou...
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NSPRA

Rich Township High School received seven accolades from NSPRA

July 2, 2024
The National School Public Relations Association (NSPRA) has recently announced its annual Publications and Digital Media Excellence Awards. These awards aim to recognize outstand...
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