Did you know that Saint Joseph High School was once an all-boys school? This very spot held the dreams and ambitions of countless young men. Saint Joseph High School opened its doors in 1960. It was dedicated in 1961 by Cardinal Albert Gregory Meyer. The De La Salle Christian Brothers founded the school. It was initially a three-year high school. It became a fully recognized four-year institution in 1964. The school was built on 17 acres of land. It originally shared that land with Immaculate Heart of Mary School for girls.
Saint Joseph High School wasn’t just about academics. It was a powerhouse in athletics. The school’s basketball team achieved incredible success. It won state championships in 1999 and 2015 under the legendary Coach Gene Pingatore. He is considered the winningest boys’ high school basketball coach in Illinois history. The school also boasted a successful boys’ soccer program. It reached the IHSA final four eight times. Saint Joseph High School gained national attention in 1994. This was due to its prominent role in the documentary Hoop Dreams. The film showcased the lives of two students. They played basketball under Coach Pingatore. Famous alumni include NBA Hall of Famer Isiah Thomas. Other notable alumni include Andy Frederick an NFL player and Evan Turner a basketball player.
Imagine the hallways bustling with students. Picture the excitement of ChargerFest. This was the school’s biggest fundraiser. The school also held a Super Raffle. It offered a $10000 prize. In 2004 Saint Joseph High School achieved a technological milestone. It became the first Catholic high school in Illinois to go fully wireless and laptop-based. However times changed. In 2005 the school became co-ed. It merged with the neighboring Immaculate Heart of Mary High School. The school moved to the IHM building.
Unfortunately Saint Joseph High School closed in 2021. Declining enrollment and financial difficulties led to this difficult decision. The school’s memorabilia was carefully archived. Some pieces remain at the Christian Brothers of the Midwest District Office. Other items are at the Village of Westchester Hall. The school’s remaining administrators worked with the Village of Westchester and the Christian Brothers. They are working to sell the entire property. Although the buildings stand empty the legacy of Saint Joseph High School lives on. The spirit of community and the dedication to learning are still cherished by its alumni. The motto Vincit Qui Laborat meaning He conquers who labors continues to inspire. It reminds us of the hard work and dedication that shaped this institution.