Imagine yourself as a time-traveling Spartan, transported to the present day. You find yourself standing before Oak Lawn Community High School.
Oak Lawn Community High School opened its doors in 1952. It stands as a beacon of education in the Chicago metropolitan area. The school’s very identity is rooted in the spirit of the Spartans.
The name “Spartans” and the colors, Kelly Green and White, weren’t chosen at random. A committee selected them in tribute to the Michigan State University Spartans. This was after their Rose Bowl victory in 1954.
Oak Lawn Community High School serves a diverse community. It includes sections of Oak Lawn, Bridgeview, Chicago Ridge, and Hometown. District 229’s boundaries stretch from 87th to 99th Street. Crawford Avenue and Harlem Avenue mark its east and west borders.
With a student body of nearly 2,000, Oak Lawn High may not be the largest school. However, it has a huge heart. Oak Lawn Community High School prides itself on preparing students for the future. It fosters a safe and intellectually challenging environment.
The school’s values are embodied in the acronym PRIDE. It stands for Personal Responsibility, Respect, Integrity, Dedication, and Excellence. These principles guide students and staff alike.
Oak Lawn Community High School boasts a wide array of athletic and extracurricular activities. Interscholastic teams compete in basketball, bowling, cross country, and more. There is even a coed bass fishing team.
The Spartans have achieved remarkable success in various fields. The drama team has secured multiple state championships. The speech team and group interpretation teams have also earned top honors. Boys’ volleyball team won state in 1993-94.
Many notable alumni have walked the halls of Oak Lawn Community High School. They include actors, musicians, and professional athletes. Rob Mackowiak played Major League Baseball. Steve Kmak played bass for the band Disturbed. Tim Purpura served as general manager of the Houston Astros.
Even faculty members have achieved prominence. Edward Maloney served as an Illinois state senator. He also worked as a teacher and administrator at Oak Lawn Community High School.
Oak Lawn Community High School stands as a pillar of its community. It is more than just a school. It is a place where students learn. It is a place where students grow. It is a place where students prepare to make their mark on the world.