Thornton Township High School

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Nestled in the heart of Harvey, Illinois, Thornton Township High School stands as a beacon of educational excellence with a rich history dating back to 1898. This remarkable public high school has been serving the South Suburbs of Chicago for over a century, developing productive citizens and providing comprehensive education to students from diverse backgrounds.

A Legacy of Educational Excellence

Founded in 1899, Thornton Township High School has a fascinating origin story that begins with a special election on May 28, 1898. The community chose Harvey as the school’s location, with an initial estimated cost of $40,000. The original building, designed by architect Oscar L. Murray, was a testament to progressive educational thinking of the time, featuring physical and biological laboratories, a library, gymnasium, and a spacious 280-seat assembly room.

School Demographics and Community Impact

Today, Thornton Township High School serves a vibrant and diverse student population. As of the 2024-2025 school year, the school boasts:

• Total Students: 1,697
• Grade Levels: 9-12
• Student Composition:
  • Black Students: 1,120
  • Hispanic Students: 484
  • White Students: 54
  • Other Ethnic Groups: 39
• Student-to-Teacher Ratio: 14.26

Academic and Extracurricular Strengths

The school is part of Thornton Township High School District 205, which covers multiple communities including Blue Island, Harvey, South Holland, and several others. With a mission to develop productive citizens, the district emphasizes academic achievement and personal growth.

Notable Achievements

Throughout its history, Thornton Township High School has produced remarkable alumni. One notable example is Betty Robinson, who in 1928 became the first woman to win an Olympic gold medal in the 100 meters, setting a world record that stood until 1932.

School Spirit and Athletics

The school’s athletic program is robust, with the Wildcats competing in the Southland Athletic Conference. Their school colors are purple and white, and they take great pride in their athletic traditions.

Community Commitment

The school’s core values reflect a deep commitment to student success:

• Empathy: Understanding and recognizing emotions in others
• Trust: Creating clarity and working compassionately to educate students
• Pride: Offering opportunities for students to perform at their highest levels

🏫 Note: Thornton Township High School continues to be a vital educational institution, serving students with dedication and innovative approaches to learning.

As Thornton Township High School moves forward, it remains dedicated to its mission of developing productive citizens who are prepared for success in their future endeavors, whether through enrollment in higher education, military service, or direct employment.