Picture this. You are standing before Crane Medical Prep High School. Its imposing brick facade speaks of history. It whispers stories of innovation and achievement.
Crane Medical Prep High School. A name synonymous with Chicago’s rich educational heritage. Founded in 1890 as the English High and Manual Training School it was a boys-only institution. It originally stood at 12th Street and Michigan Avenue. It wasn’t until 1903 that it moved to its current location. The school was then renamed to honor businessman Richard T Crane.
The school’s transformation wasn’t always smooth. In 1954 it became co-educational. This marked a shift away from its technical focus. Yet courses like auto shop and drafting remained. For many years the building shared space with Crane College. This was Chicago’s first junior college. It remained until 1969 when it moved becoming Malcolm X College. Later in 2011 the school faced potential closure. The Chicago Public Schools considered phasing it out. But a determined effort saved it. In 2012 it was redeveloped into a health sciences high school.
This wasn’t just a renaming. It was a strategic partnership. Rush Hospital City Colleges of Chicago and the University of Illinois at Chicago all contributed. This collaboration transformed Crane into a leading medical prep school. It’s a testament to the school’s enduring spirit.
Crane’s legacy extends far beyond its classrooms. Its notable alumni are impressive. Martin Cooper the inventor of the handheld cell phone is one. George Halas a football legend is another. Richard Hamming a computer pioneer also graduated from Crane. Even Verdine White of the iconic group Earth Wind and Fire walked these halls. These individuals embody the school’s dedication to excellence.
Today Crane Medical Prep High School continues its proud legacy. It prepares students for careers in medicine and healthcare. It is a place of learning innovation and achievement. It is a beacon of hope in the heart of Chicago. It is a school with a rich history a vibrant present and a promising future. Remember Crane’s journey. Remember its resilience. Remember its remarkable contributions to Chicago and the world.