Shouts of “Go Warriors” echo through the halls. Today we are standing before Richards Career Academy. It is a four-year vocational high school. Richards Career Academy is on Chicago’s southwest side. More precisely it is in the Back of the Yards neighborhood.
Richards Career Academy has a story dating back to 1946. The Chicago Public Schools established it. Initially, it was an all-girls vocational school. The first class had 230 students. The school was first located in a former elementary school building. This building at 2535 South Green Street once served as barracks during World War I. Before Richards, it was a branch of Englewood High School.
Early courses focused on practical skills. These included home arts and dressmaking. Students could also learn basic business training and bookkeeping. Beauty culture and art were also taught. The curriculum also included standard subjects. These were English, history and science. Physical education was part of the program too. An office practice course was added in the early 1960s. By then, enrollment had grown significantly.
Richards moved locations several times. In 1955, it relocated due to the Stevenson Expressway construction. The new address was 3031 South Wallace. This was another former elementary school building. Then in the late 1960s, Richards moved again. Its current location is 5009 South Laflin Street. This new building was designed for a vocational high school. Enrollment was around 1,300 at the time. The school became co-educational in the late 1980s.
Richards Career Academy is named for Ellen Henrietta Richards. She was an environmental chemist. Richards offers Career and Technical Education programs. Culinary Arts and Business Entrepreneurship are award-winning programs here. The school operates on a 4×4 block schedule. Students can earn eight credits each school year.
Richards Career Academy is a Sustainable Community School. Students have access to various programs. These include athletics and extracurricular activities. Partnerships with organizations enrich the student experience. After School Matters and the National Museum of Mexican Art are partners. Youth Guidance and buildOn also provide support.
Richards teams are called the Warriors. They compete in the Chicago Public League. Richards is also a member of the Illinois High School Association. The girls’ basketball team achieved success. They were regional champions in 2018-2019. They were also Class 1A champions.
Richards Career Academy uses Restorative Practices. These practices support all students. Student ChangeMakers play an important role. They provide input for school improvement. Richards Career Academy provides a well-rounded education. It combines career skills with academic learning. It prepares students for future success.