In July of 1940, a successful referendum brought Cook County School District 220 into existence. However, manpower and materials were channeled from the needed school construction into the defense effort.
In 1945, the War Production Board authorized the construction of the utility building, which was practically completed when the Cook County Superior Court issued a restraining injunction halting further progress. It was at this time that a nationally known educator and professor from the University of Chicago entered the picture, resolved the problems, and allowed work to resume. The arbitrator was Dr. William Claude Reavis (1881 - 1955).
Plans were finally made for the high school. By the time construction of the building, to be known eventually as William Claude Reavis High School, began in 1949, Dr. Reavis had approved new and revised blueprints which took into account the long range, as well as immediate needs of the community's high school population.
On its opening day - September 11, 1950 - Reavis High School welcomed 330 freshmen, sophomores, and juniors. Since its first graduating class in 1952, thousands of young men and women have earned their high school diplomas from Reavis High School and have become productive, responsible members of American society.
REAVIS HIGH SCHOOL TODAY
Reavis High School offers a comprehensive academic program and is fully accredited by the Illinois State Board of Education and the North Central Association of Colleges and Secondary Schools.
Faculty members are both experienced and highly educated. Reavis teachers have, on average, 12.3 years of experience. More than 72% of the professional personnel hold a master's degree. The campus features:
- 132 classrooms, 9 computer labs, and 13 science labs
- an 18,000 square-foot nationally acclaimed library which
houses some 43,000 volumes - three gyms
- a spacious auditorium and smaller theatre
- an Olympic-size swimming pool
- a lighted football field, several baseball and softball
diamonds, and a modern all weather track facility - a complete automotive workshop
- a state-of -the-art tech center, and extensive
fine arts facilities
More than 40% of our students are involved in the many extracurricular organizations and activities offered at the school. Individual and team accomplishments contributing to a successful athletic program include many conference and regional championships. State championships, state qualifiers and "All State" sectionals have been numerous.
MISSION STATEMENT
Reavis High School, together with students, staff, and community, provides a student-centered environment. We focus on educational opportunities in activities, athletics, and most importantly, academics. We empower students to respect and be respected, explore career goals, and maximize their full potential. Citizenship, responsibility, and leadership in an ever-changing and diverse society are at the core of every student's education at Reavis High School.
