Soaring high above Printer’s Row stands Jones College Prep a beacon of academic excellence in Chicago. This isn’t just any high school. It’s a legacy built on ambition innovation and a commitment to soaring towards excellence.
Jones College Prep’s story begins in 1938. It started as Jones Commercial High School. The Chicago Board of Education needed a school to serve the growing downtown area. The school offered a two-year program training students for office jobs. It was a forward-thinking initiative for its time.
The school underwent several name changes reflecting its evolving focus. It became Jones Metropolitan High School of Business and Commerce. Then Jones Academic Magnet High School. Finally in 1998 it adopted its current name Jones College Prep. This marked a shift towards college preparatory education. This was a pivotal moment in the school’s history.
The original building a six-story structure was built in 1966. It was designed to resemble an office building. This reflected the school’s initial focus on business. The school underwent renovations in the early 2000s. A new building was constructed next door. It opened in 2013. The new building boasts state-of-the-art facilities. There is a pool a gymnasium a library and even a theater. The total cost exceeded 100 million dollars making it Chicago’s most expensive school.
Jones College Prep’s academic achievements are remarkable. GreatSchools.org rates the school a perfect 10 out of 10. Its Advanced Placement participation rate is an impressive 96%. This reflects the school’s commitment to challenging its students. The school has received numerous accolades including a Gold Medal from U.S. News & World Report and Blue Ribbon awards from the Department of Education.
But Jones College Prep is more than just bricks and mortar. It’s a community of learners. Its diverse student body represents Chicago’s vibrant tapestry. The school’s commitment to equity and inclusion is evident in its demographics. Students come from all over Chicago from all races ethnicities and socioeconomic backgrounds.
Jones College Prep has produced notable alumni including Chance the Rapper a Grammy-winning hip-hop artist. The school is a testament to the power of education. It’s a place where students are empowered to achieve their dreams. It is a place where students from all walks of life can succeed. It’s a testament to Chicago’s spirit of perseverance and innovation. It stands as a proud symbol of academic excellence in Chicago’s heart. It continues to soar to new heights.