Wow. Look at this magnificent building. This is Lenart Elementary Regional Gifted Center. It wasn’t always a haven for bright young minds. This very spot once housed the Amelia Dunne Hookway School a building steeped in history. Built in 1928 in the popular Gothic Revival style it stands proudly on ten acres of land.
Step inside and you’ll discover twelve stunning New Deal era murals. Four large murals depict pivotal moments in US history. Conquest colonization western expansion and modernity are all brilliantly captured. Eight smaller murals celebrate local history. They’re titled History of Chicago and date back to 1939. These weren’t just slapped on the walls. They were commissioned by the Illinois Arts and Crafts Projects under the Works Progress Administration. Ralph Henricksen the artist poured his heart and soul into them.
But times change. Neighborhood demographics shifted. Hookway Elementary closed in 1981. A transitional high school Cecil Partee Academic Preparatory Center briefly occupied the building. Then a remarkable transformation happened. The building was renovated extensively by JLA Architects. In 1988 Lenart Regional Gifted Center opened its doors. This wasn’t just a school it was a beacon for gifted students. It was a testament to the vision of Ted Lenart a Chicago Public School administrator instrumental in establishing gifted programs across the city. The name Lenart is thus a tribute to his dedication.
Another major renovation took place in 1999 thanks to SWWB Architects costing 5.7 million dollars. The school has consistently earned impressive academic accolades. It’s been on the Illinois Honor Roll for years and received the Award for Academic Excellence every year a testament to its dedication to high academic standards.
Lenart is more than just bricks and mortar. It’s a community. A place where students thrive. A place where creativity intellectual curiosity and problem-solving skills are nurtured. It’s a school where 100 percent of students pass the Illinois Standards Achievement Tests with many exceeding state standards. Chicago magazine even ranked Lenart as the number one public school in Chicago in 2006.
Lenart has achieved national recognition too. In 2020 it was awarded a National Blue Ribbon. This remarkable school is a shining example of educational excellence. It’s a place where students are empowered to reach their full potential. It’s a legacy that continues to inspire. This is more than just a school. It’s a testament to the power of vision dedication and unwavering commitment to nurturing young minds. It’s a place where dreams take flight. So let’s celebrate the amazing story of Lenart Elementary Regional Gifted Center.