Beneath the Chicago sun stands Kennedy High School. Its story began in 1963. But not as Kennedy. Initially, it was named John H. Kinzie High School.
Why the name change? The assassination of President John F. Kennedy that same year shook the nation. In 1965, the school was renamed to honor him.
Kennedy High School is more than just bricks and mortar. It is located in Chicago’s Garfield Ridge neighborhood. It is operated by Chicago Public Schools. It is a public four-year high school.
Did you know Kennedy is an AVID school? AVID means Advancement Via Individual Determination. Since 2000, Kennedy participates in the International Baccalaureate Program.
Kennedy’s athletic teams are called the Crusaders. They compete in the Chicago Public League. They are also members of the Illinois High School Association or IHSA.
Let’s talk about some victories. The boys’ baseball team won the City Championship in 1969. They were Class AA and Public League Champions in 1977 and 1978. The boys’ cross country team dominated too. They were Class AA eight times. The girls’ bowling team were public league champions five times.
Sports at Kennedy High School include many options. In fall, there is boys’ soccer. There is girls’ volleyball and football. You can also find cheerleading, boys’ softball, and girls’ swimming. Do not forget cross country.
Winter sports consist of basketball for both boys and girls. There is also indoor track and bowling. Students can participate in cheerleading, boys’ swimming, and wrestling.
Spring brings girls’ softball and boys’ baseball. There is also girls’ soccer. Boys can play volleyball. Track and field and water polo round out the options.
Many notable figures walked these halls. Jim Hickey played Minor League Baseball. He later became a Major League Baseball pitching coach. Donell Jones is a famous R&B singer. Kathy Kelly is a peace activist. Mark Protosevich is a screenwriter. Jill Talley is a comedic actress. Gene Walter played MLB.
Kennedy High School has a principal named George Z. Szkapiak. The school’s colors are royal blue and golden yellow. The school’s website is kennedyhschicago.org.
In 2014 and 2015, the school had an enrollment of 1,623 students. Kennedy High School continues to educate and inspire. It is named after a great leader. It has a rich history. Kennedy High School remains a pillar of its community.