Instilling Pride, Creating Opportunity at District 218 High Schools

For Community High School District 218 (CHSD 218), the completion of new spaces—including two new fieldhouse additions and two renovated theaters—represents far more than routine facilities improvements.

A multi-phased program starting in the summer of 2024 included renovation and expansion work at two District schools: Dwight D. Eisenhower High School and Alan B. Shepard High School. The projects have created new opportunities for students, improved the daily experience for teachers and strengthened pride throughout the school community.

From the first day the fieldhouses opened, the impact was clear. During a first-period physical education class, students entered their new space with smiles and excitement, impressed that such an exceptional facility had been created for them.

The new spaces allow more students to remain on campus for practices and performances while providing additional room to learn, compete and come together. Teachers have also noted improvements in classroom experiences and the overall flow of the building. Most noticeably, students are demonstrating a renewed sense of pride in their school.

Collaboration was central to bringing the District’s vision to life. In association with JP Architects, FGMA served as the design architect for programming and design of multiple projects for CHSD 218. From the earliest planning conversations, the team worked closely with District 218 leaders to gather input, understand priorities and ensure the final project reflected the community’s goals.

Engaging stakeholders brought valuable perspectives to the process, while also requiring the District to carefully evaluate competing needs and make difficult decisions. That balance helped the team remain focused on the larger vision and deliver the project within budget.

For District 218, success is reflected in the everyday experience of the people for whom these spaces were designed to serve: students who feel valued, educators who are better supported and a community that can take pride in the investment it made in its schools.