Standing before the impressive red brick facade of the Nettelhorst Elementary School, you can almost hear the echoes of its long and storied history. It’s a place steeped in tradition, named after Louis Nettelhorst Sr., a German immigrant who served as the head of the Chicago Board of Education in the late 1800s. This public K-8 school has been educating generations of Chicagoans since it first opened its doors in 1892. But Nettelhorst is more than just a school; it’s a community hub where families come together and children thrive.
In the early 2000s, Nettelhorst was struggling to maintain its reputation. The school had low test scores and fewer Lake View families were choosing to enroll their children there. Then, in 2001, a dedicated parent named Jacqueline Edelberg had a vision. Edelberg wanted her children to attend a neighborhood school and sought a way to improve Nettelhorst. She worked with the school’s principal, Susan Kurland, and together they set in motion a remarkable turnaround.
Inspired by Edelberg’s commitment, parents and teachers collaborated to make Nettelhorst a place of excellence. They organized after-school enrichment programs, beautified the campus, and created a dynamic learning environment. By 2009, Nettelhorst had transformed into a vibrant, flourishing school. Families were eager to enroll their kids in this thriving community. The school’s academic performance improved dramatically, and Nettelhorst became a model of resilience and community engagement.
Look closely at the beautiful building. You’ll find architectural details from different eras, a testament to its long lifespan. John J. Flanders, a well-known Chicago architect, designed the original building. The school also boasts numerous murals, including one painted in 1940 by Ethel Spears as part of the Works Progress Administration’s art project. This mural, “Horses from Literature,” showcases whimsical wooden horses, adding a touch of whimsy to the school’s hallways. Today, Nettelhorst stands as a testament to what can be achieved when communities come together to support their schools and children. It’s much more than a place of learning; it’s a heart of the neighborhood, a place where dreams take flight.