The history of schools in West Chicago is a story of growth and a steadfast commitment to education. From one room schoolhouses to state of the art modern facilities, the community has consistently worked to meet the needs of its students and adapt to changing times.
From Log Cabins to Permanent Schools
The earliest schools in West Chicago reflected the needs in the small but growing community. One of the first was a small log structure located on Washington Street, west of Garden Street. As the town, then known as Junction, grew around the Galena & Chicago Union Railroad in 1849, the need for more formal educational facilities became apparent.
John B. Turner, president of the railroad and a key figure in the town’s development, supported early education by allowing a frame schoolhouse to be built on his land near Washington and High Streets. This building, which also hosted church services, served as a shared space for the tight-knit community.
By 1857, Turner donated land for a brick and stone schoolhouse on Fulton Street, marking a significant step forward. This schoolhouse, which still stands today as a residence, symbolizes the early investment in education that laid the foundation for future growth.
Fulton Street School
The Turner School Era: Education Takes Root
The construction of the Turner School in 1873 was a turning point for education in West Chicago. This three-story brick and stone building, funded by a $25,000 community investment, reflected the town’s growing population and dedication to formal education.
Turner School, later known as North Side School. When rebuilt it was later named Washington School and today the West Chicago Fire District sits on this location
Under the leadership of Harriet Yakeley, the school’s second principal, high school courses were introduced, and the first graduating class of 1878 included just two students: Carrie Roundy and Addie Evenden. Both went on to become teachers in West Chicago, underscoring the lasting influence of early educators.
As industrial growth attracted more residents in the 1880s, the community responded by building the South Side School in 1887. This two-story brick and stone structure, constructed on land purchased from Charles S. Winslow, addressed the need for additional space and highlighted the town’s ongoing commitment to education.
South Side School
Expansion in the 20th Century
With the town’s official name change to West Chicago in 1896, the demand for modernized and expanded schools grew.
In 1904, the formation of High School District 94 marked a milestone for secondary education, creating a dedicated system for older students. The North Side School, originally the old Turner School, soon proved inadequate, leading to the construction of Washington School in 1908. This new facility housed both elementary and high school students, reflecting the need for shared spaces during this period of transition.
Washington School
When the South Side School was destroyed by fire in 1919, the community rallied to build Lincoln School on Geneva Street in 1921. This eight-room structure became the oldest surviving school in District 33, undergoing multiple expansions as the population grew.
By the mid-1920s, the student population had outgrown Washington School, prompting the construction of a dedicated high school on Joliet Street in 1926. Chosen by community vote, the new facility was a testament to the town’s commitment to providing quality secondary education.
Post-War Growth and Modernization
The post-World War II era brought rapid suburban growth, including a surge in West Chicago’s population. To meet the educational needs of this boom, the town constructed several new schools:
Carrie E. Roundy Kindergarten (1952)
Turner School (1953)
Gary School (1955)
West Chicago Junior High / Leman Middle School (1962–1964)
Indian Knoll School (1967)
Pioneer School (1971)
Charles T. Wegner School and Arvilla Currier School (1994)
This wave of construction, funded by bond issues approved by voters, demonstrated the community’s willingness to invest in education.