“A school steeped in history,” you might think as you stand before Highland Park High School. And you’d be right. Located just north of bustling Chicago, Highland Park High School has been a fixture in this community, shaping young minds since 1889. Though its name might sound straightforward, the school’s journey is anything but.
Did you know that the school wasn’t always called Highland Park High School? It began its life as Deerfield High School. From 1904 to 1936, it was known as Deerfield-Shields High School, serving students from both townships. The creation of Lake Forest High School in 1936 meant Shields Township students had a new academic home. This change allowed Highland Park High School to reclaim its original name – a testament to the evolving educational landscape of the area.
Over the years, the school has seen its fair share of transformations, growing and adapting to the needs of its students. A significant renovation in 2000 breathed new life into the building, with modern additions complementing its historic charm.
But perhaps the most remarkable aspect of Highland Park High School is the legacy of its alumni. Imagine, walking these halls alongside future Academy Award-winning screenwriter William Goldman, the words of “The Princess Bride” already taking shape in his mind. Or picture a young Rachel Brosnahan, honing her acting skills, destined to captivate audiences in shows like “The Marvelous Mrs. Maisel.” From astronauts to athletes, artists to political activists, Highland Park High School’s alumni have made their mark on the world. The school continues to inspire and educate, its halls echoing with the potential of future generations.