Opened in 1959 Glenbard East High School wasn’t just another school. It was a symbol of suburban growth. This building right here saw its first students walk through these very doors. They numbered just 525. Twenty-eight staff members guided them.
But the school’s grand opening wasn’t without drama. A tornado or maybe a microburst struck just days before. It ripped the east wall from the tower section. The auditorium roof collapsed. Classes were delayed for two weeks. Imagine the chaos.
The school needed a name and colors. “Tornadoes” was a contender. So were the “Apaches”. But the students chose “Rams” for Right Attitude Means Success. Lilac and white were considered. But the students instead selected red black and white. The first principal was William Rider.
Glenbard East quickly made its mark. It competed in the Interim Conference with other new suburban schools like Willowbrook and Niles West. The school’s first yearbook wasn’t published until 1961. It was called the Aries. Before that Lombard students went to Glenbard West.
Glenbard East celebrated its 50th anniversary in 2009. The event featured memorabilia and recognized athletes. In 2011 The Washington Post named Glenbard East one of Illinois’ top public high schools.
This school boasts notable alumni. Jim Avila a national reporter for ABC News is an alum. So is Jeremy Hammond an activist and former hacker. Joanna Krupa the model and actress also attended. Marc Miller a game designer and science-fiction author graduated from Glenbard East. David Orr served as Chicago’s interim mayor. Mary Doria Russell a science-fiction author also walked these halls. She even named a character after a teacher. Dan Tani a NASA astronaut and Timothy Zahn a Hugo Award-winning science-fiction author are alumni. Dwayne Bates a former NFL player is the assistant principal.
Glenbard East High School a cornerstone of Lombard has a rich history. It is a testament to the spirit and achievements of its students staff and alumni. This school is more than bricks and mortar. It’s a community. A legacy. A story that continues to unfold.