Carl Sandburg High School

Was Carl Sandburg High School always this bustling? Built on a former cornfield in Orland Park, Illinois, Carl Sandburg High School has seen incredible growth since its humble beginnings. Carl Sandburg High School first opened its doors in September 1954. The school was named after the famous Illinois-born poet, Carl Sandburg. The school board wanted a name with historical significance. They hoped it would transcend the local connections of the former school districts. Carl Sandburg himself even expressed his pleasure at the honor in a letter to the school board. He visited the school every other year until 1960. The original building cost $930,000 and was designed to hold just 450 students. It featured a central gymnasium and auditorium that could accommodate 1,200 people. The school’s library and agriculture, science, and business education classes were housed in a smaller, two-story section. The architects planned for additions from the outset, anticipating the area’s rapid population growth. By the 1956-57 school year, the student population had exploded to over 900, requiring split shifts. Additions were quickly made. A second gym opened in 1958, and further expansions in 1960 brought ten new classrooms, a new library, and even a swimming pool. By 1960, Carl Sandburg High School served 1,400 students. The school continued to expand. In 1966, another addition added more science labs, art rooms, music rooms, and industrial arts facilities. Today, Carl Sandburg High School is part of Consolidated High School District 230, along with Victor J. Andrew High School and Amos Alonzo Stagg High School. Carl Sandburg High School is not just known for its namesake, but also its impressive alumni. Notable graduates include athletes, actors, politicians, musicians, and a winner of “The Apprentice.” The school has a thriving athletics program, with numerous state championships in various sports. The school also excels academically and was even named one of the top high schools in Illinois by U.S. News & World Report. In 2019, Carl Sandburg’s Marching Eagles traveled to Hawaii. They proudly performed in the Waikiki Holiday Parade, showcasing the school’s talent on a national stage.