Here stands Chicago Christian High School, a beacon of faith and learning in the heart of Palos Heights. This impressive institution isn’t just a school; it’s a testament to a rich history of Christian education in Chicago.
It all began in 1918, when the school was founded in the bustling Englewood neighborhood. The original Chicago Christian High School, with its 14 students, rented space from the Bible Mission. As enrollment surged, the school moved to its own building in 1927. Sports featured prominently in their program; students enjoyed basketball, volleyball, and a Literary Club, Chorale, Debate, and an Oratory group. In 1963, the school moved to its present location in Palos Heights, a move that signified a new chapter in its evolution.
This wasn’t just any move; they built a brand-new campus on the former Navajo golf course. This site is also where the idea for the NIV version of the Bible took root, a fascinating fact that connects the school with a global phenomenon. After several mergers, the Southwest Chicago Christian Schools Association was formed in 1998. In 2024, the association adopted the name Chicago Christian Schools, which now encompasses three campuses, serving Christian families with students from preschool to high school. The school fosters a commitment to both faith and academics, aiming for spiritual, social, academic, cultural, and physical development in its students. They believe that education is about growing the whole person – intellectually, spiritually and ethically.
The Chicago Christian High School you see before you is a vibrant example of how a school can be a force for positive change in a community. It’s a testament to the values of faith and service, and a reminder of the power of education to transform young lives.