Did you know George Westinghouse College Prep was once a candy factory? It’s true. This building has quite the history. George Westinghouse College Prep originally opened in 1932. It was housed in a former Bunte Brothers candy factory. The factory was designed by Schmidt, Garden and Martin in 1920. It stands as one of the largest examples of the Chicago School architectural style.
Now, let’s fast forward a few years. In 1965, the candy factory transformed. It became a vocational high school. George Westinghouse College Prep officially opened as a high school in 1967. The first graduating class walked across the stage in 1968. There were 24 students in the senior class. 23 of them actually graduated.
But that’s not the end of the story. In 2009, George Westinghouse College Prep got a major upgrade. A new facility was built at 3223 West Franklin Boulevard. This cost a whopping $106.5 million. The old building was torn down. Today, the school’s football field stands where the old factory once stood.
George Westinghouse College Prep is more than just a building. It’s a place of learning and growth. It is rated highly by GreatSchools.org. The school has a college preparatory focus. George Westinghouse College Prep serves a diverse student population. Students come from nearly 300 different elementary schools.
The athletic teams at George Westinghouse College Prep are called the Warriors. The boys’ basketball team has a great record. They won the Illinois Class AA Boys’ Basketball Championship in 2001-2002. The team has made fifteen appearances in the Class AA. The girls’ basketball team were Regional champions in 2013-2014.
George Westinghouse College Prep has produced some notable alumni. Mark Aguirre played basketball for DePaul University and in the NBA. Eddie Johnson is a sports broadcaster and former basketball player. Hersey Hawkins played basketball for Bradley University and in the NBA. Kiwane Garris played basketball in the NBA and the Italian League.
Since 2015, F.H. Paschen has partnered with George Westinghouse College Prep. Together they provide resources and training. This prepares students for careers in architecture, engineering, and construction. Each year they present the P.I.E. Series. It is called “Paschen: Innovations in Engineering.” The P.I.E. Series allows students and families to explore engineering courses.
The first class of Paschen Engineering Scholars began in the summer of 2016. Each summer Paschen adds a new class of scholars.
George Westinghouse College Prep continues to evolve. It provides opportunities for its students. It is a vital part of the Chicago Public Schools system. From a candy factory to a college prep school, it has a rich history.