District 214 Discussing $850M In Renovations Across 6 High Schools

ARLINGTON HEIGHTS, IL — In 2022, Township High School District 214 ordered a comprehensive facility condition assessment to identify needs in its six high schools and specialized schools. Officials said the results indicate around $850 million is required to fix up the buildings over a number of years.

Critical infrastructure repairs, accessibility improvements, and modernization of learning environments to support current and future programs are among the areas that need to be addressed.

As part of a desired "community-wide conversation about the future of its school buildings," the district is inviting residents to weigh in. The district is offering the following opportunities:

• An online community survey is open through Nov. 3
• Virtual sessions hosted by District 214 are scheduled for 6:30 p.m. Oct. 27 and at noon on Nov. 3
• An in-person session at 6:30 p.m. Nov. 3 at Rolling Meadows High School

"Our goal is to listen to our community and develop a responsible plan that keeps our schools strong for generations to come," Superintendent Dr. Scott Rowe said. "As part of this process, we will review all financial options to ensure that any future recommendations are both fiscally responsible and aligned with community priorities."

District 214, headquartered in Arlington Heights, consists of Buffalo Grove High School, Elk Grove Village High School, John Hersey High School, Prospect High School, Rolling Meadows High School and Wheeling High School. It is the second-largest high school district by enrollment in the state.

Officials said no funding decisions have been made, with the current focus being "an understanding of facility needs, exploring solutions, determining the community's priorities, and identifying the most responsible financial path forward." They also emphasize the project would align with its Future 214 Strategic Plan, noting that the district hasn't gone to a referendum in over 50 years.

According to the district, a community report summarizing all feedback from the survey and engagement sessions will be presented to the board of education next month.