Evanston High School Breaks Ground On $48M Campus Expansion Project

EVANSTON, IL — Evanston Township High School officials broke ground Wednesday on an expected $48 million transformative campus expansion project.

The expansion will add a 250-seat multifunctional studio theater and renovated music practice rooms, as well as specialized classrooms for students studying culinary arts, sculpture, fashion and engineering.

“This project isn’t just about bricks and mortar—it’s about building futures and reimagining what’s possible in public education.” Dr. Marcus Campbell, Superintendent of ETHS District 202.

The groundbreaking event also marked the high school's official launch of the ETHS Foundation's new campaign,Evanston to Everywhere. The campaign aims to raise nearly $48 million to support the renovations.

The campaign has already raised $23.5 million, with initial donations of $7 million from ETHS alumnus Leonard D. Schaffer ‘63 and $2.5 million from the Lewis-Sebring Family Foundation.

Contributions to the fundraiser will support the development of new and renovated learning spaces designed to support future-ready learning, equity in access to world-class facilities, and a student-centered educational experience.

“This extraordinary show of support from our alumni, families, and school community reflects a deep confidence in ETHS to empower our students wherever their paths may lead,” said Jeff Hammock, Chief Advancement Officer of the ETHS Foundation.“Their generosity is not only helping us reach a historic milestone—it’s a powerful investment in the future of our students, our school, and our community.”

This expansion is part of a broader campaign to invest in 21st-century learning spaces that will better serve ETHS students.