Arlington Heights, Ill. — Starting with an open house at its first high school “Arlington” … High School District 214 will celebrate its Centennial with festivities during the 2014-15 school year that showcase its innovation and excellence in education.
The activities and events, including an Arlington High School open house, a District-wide food drive and a three-day celebration of academics and co-curriculars, will highlight the past, present and future of District 214 schools.
District 214 Celebrates 100 Years of Excellence and Innovation in Education
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— Cardinal News (@EarlyReport) August 8, 2014
“District 214 is the place where students discover future possibilities, staff grows professionally and community members learn new skills through Community Ed,” said Dr. David Schuler, superintendent of High School District 214. “We look forward to continuing this tradition and shaping public education for the next 100 years.”
District 214 has been making history since its inception.
During the March 1914 election, in the midst of the women’s suffrage movement, a controversial proposition to create a local high school divided men and women in the Arlington Heights area. The measure passed by 16 votes cast by women.
Since then, the District has grown from a single school to six traditional high schools and three alternative programs, making it the second largest high school district in the state.
The District ‘s schools have been ranked among the nation’s 1,000 best high schools in U.S. News & World Report and are nationally recognized by the U.S. Department of Education as a Blue Ribbon School of Excellence District.
“For 100 years, our schools have served as an anchor in the community, and as a longtime Board member, community member and most importantly, parent of District 214 alumni, I have always been impressed with the achievements of our students and dedication of all our teachers and staff,” said Bill Dussling, president of High School District 214’s Board of Education. “I invite the whole community to attend our celebration events and Discover District 214.”
On social media, students, staff, alumni and community members are encouraged to use the hashtag #214bday and post photos of the celebration.
During the upcoming school year, students, staff, alumni and community members will gather to mark the Centennial at the following events:
Saturday, Sept. 27, 2014 … 9 AM to 1 PM — Open House at former Arlington High School
502 W. Euclid Ave., Arlington Heights
Along with self-guided tours of the District’s first school, visitors will be able to view a screening of “Our Lady in Red,” a documentary on Arlington High School and its ties to community history. Arlington alumni will be on hand to share their stories and memories.
Sunday, Nov. 9 – Sunday, Nov. 23, 2014 — District-wide Food Drive
The District’s six high schools and three alternative programs will collect food to benefit local food pantries. Students will deliver collection bags to as many homes as possible. Please participate by filling a bag, or bringing in food items to your local high school.
Thursday, Feb. 5 – Saturday, Feb. 7, 2015 — Community Centennial Celebration
Forest View Educational Center, 2121 S. Goebbert Road, Arlington Heights
• Thursday, Feb. 5: The celebration will kick off with a reception prior to the Board of Education meeting. Guests will include former Board members, superintendents and students whose academic achievements will be recognized.
• Friday, Feb. 6: A free evening of musical and theatrical talent provided by nationally-recognized District 214 students. Performances will be held by band, orchestra, dance, acting and more.
• Saturday, Feb. 7: Cheer on your favorite District 214 school as boys and girls varsity basketball teams play one another in a daylong, high-energy competition at the Centennial Classic.
Please check www.d214.org for updates and exact times on Centennial events, and follow us on Twitter (@District214) or like us on Facebook (High School District 214) for regular updates.