Did you know that Walter H Dyett High School almost disappeared forever? Right here where we stand this impressive building almost became a ghost of the past. Walter H Dyett High School opened in 1972 as a middle school. It was connected to a recreation center via a tunnel. The community shared the center when school was not in session. The pool was a vital community asset. No other public pools existed in Bronzeville.
Walter H Dyett High School is named after Walter Henri Dyett. He was a renowned American violinist and music educator. Dyett’s legacy is deeply woven into the fabric of this school. He trained many students who went on to become famous musicians. His influence still resonates today.
In 1999 the school transitioned into a high school. A few years later the recreation center was closed. This was a pivotal moment. The school faced decades of disinvestment. It lacked resources. The dropout rate soared. It reached a staggering 81% in 2009-10.
Parents and community leaders fought to keep Walter H Dyett High School open. They protested CPS’s decision to close it. Students even filed a federal civil rights complaint. They believed CPS had intentionally set the school up to fail. Their efforts led to a remarkable outcome.
A group of education activists launched a hunger strike. The strike lasted over 19 days. Their determination was unwavering. It was a testament to their commitment to saving the only remaining open-access school serving Bronzeville.
In 2016 Walter H Dyett High School reopened. It was reimagined as Dyett High School For The Arts. It’s now an open-enrollment arts-focused high school. The school’s transformation involved extensive renovations costing $14 million. The renovation included an innovation lab. The lab offers technology training to the Bronzeville/Washington Park community. It also serves nearby schools.
Today Walter H Dyett High School stands as a symbol of resilience. It shows the power of community activism. The school serves as a vibrant hub for arts education. It continues to enrich the lives of students and the community it serves. It is a testament to the unwavering spirit of those who fought to save it. The school’s story is one of struggle. It is a story of triumph. It’s a powerful reminder of the importance of perseverance and the profound impact of community.