Evanston Township High School

High above us, the orange and blue colors of Evanston Township High School stand out. They’re not just colors. They symbolize the vibrant energy within these walls. Evanston Township High School, or ETHS as it’s affectionately known, isn’t just a school. It’s a landmark, a community hub, and a place where history has unfolded since its doors first opened on August 31, 1883. Imagine a small two-story building at Dempster and Elmwood. That was the first ETHS, a far cry from the sprawling 65-acre campus we see today. It started with just 107 students and four teachers, growing into a bustling institution with thousands of students and hundreds of staff. Evanston Township High School’s story is intertwined with the growth of Evanston itself. The school’s expansion mirrored the city’s, reflecting the changing needs and aspirations of the community. In 1924, the school moved to its current location on Dodge Avenue. The new building could house 4,500 students. Even then, they were thinking big. This forward-thinking approach continued throughout the years. Evanston Township High School’s commitment to providing a well-rounded education led to the development of specialized facilities. There’s a planetarium for budding astronomers, a greenhouse for aspiring botanists, and a two-acre nature center for those drawn to the natural world. The school’s expansive library boasts a 90,000-volume collection. There’s also a 1,400-seat auditorium, two additional theaters, and even a cable TV broadcasting studio. And for the athletes among us, Evanston Township High School boasts an impressive array of facilities. There are twelve gyms, including a dance studio and a fitness center, two swimming pools, and a field house with an indoor track and tennis courts. Outdoors, a FieldTurf stadium, an outdoor track, baseball/softball diamonds, athletic fields, and tennis courts provide ample space for competition and recreation. Evanston Township High School is the only high school in the US with a Wildkit as its mascot. This unique mascot is a nod to Northwestern University’s Willie the Wildcat. The Wildkit embodies the school’s spirit and connection to the larger community. Evanston Township High School is more than bricks and mortar. It’s a place of learning, growth, and community. It has shaped generations of students. It continues to inspire and empower the leaders of tomorrow.