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PROPOSED RESOLUTION
HONORING THE 50TH ANNIVERSARY OF WHITNEY M. YOUNG MAGNET HIGH SCHOOL
WHEREAS, Whitney M. Young Magnet High School, located at 211 South Laflin Street in Chicago, Illinois, was established on September 3, 1975 as the city’s first public magnet high school, named in honor of esteemed civil rights leader Whitney M. Young, Jr.; and
WHEREAS, for five decades, Whitney Young has exemplified academic excellence, embracing its motto, "Where Academic Excellence is the Standard," and fostering a diverse and inclusive environment that nurtures the holistic development of its students; and
WHEREAS, the school has consistently ranked among the top high schools in Illinois and the nation, most recently named the #3 Illinois High School by U.S. News & World Report in 2024, reflecting its rigorous college preparatory curriculum and exceptional faculty; and
WHEREAS, Whitney Young has rightfully earned the title “School of Champions”, with an unparalleled legacy of success in academics, athletics, and extracurricular activities, including multiple state championships in basketball, tennis, chess, and a nationally acclaimed Academic Decathlon team that has won the Illinois State Championship 39 times since 1986; and
WHEREAS, Whitney Young has maintained remarkable leadership stability over the past five decades, with only four principals serving the school since its founding-all of whom have been African American-demonstrating a legacy of excellence, consistency, and culturally responsive leadership that has contributed greatly to the school’s success; and
WHEREAS, the school proudly counts among its distinguished alumni former First Lady Michelle Obama, as well as leaders across industries who embody the spirit of service and excellence cultivated at Whitney Young-including two current members of the Cook County Board of Commissioners, Michael Scott, Jr. and Stanley Moore, both proud graduates of this exceptional institution; and
WHEREAS, the school community-including students, faculty, staff, alumni, and parents-continues to honor the legacy of Whitney M. Young Jr. by championing equity, leadership, civic responsibility, and academic rigor;
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED, that the Cook County Board President Toni Preckwinkle and Cook County Board of Commissioners does recognize and celebrate the 50th Anniversary of Whitney M. Young Magnet High School, and extends its deepest appreciation for the institution’s unwavering commitment to academic excellence, student leadership, and community impact; and
BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, that a suitable copy of this resolution be presented to Whitney M. Young Magnet High School in honor of this historic milestone and as a tribute to its lasting legacy as one of Chicago’s most revered educational institutions.
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