Rich Township High School District 227 is dedicated to empowering every student with the literacy skills they need across all subjects. By using metacognitive tools, students not only strengthen their reading comprehension but also learn to think critically about texts in diverse content areas. Through our district’s partnership with WestEd's Reading Apprenticeship program, teachers are integrating literacy into their subject expertise, helping students become more confident, engaged readers. This whole-school approach is building a foundation for lifelong learning by ensuring that every teacher has the tools to support reading growth.  To learn more about this transformative approach, read the full story on Education Week https://www.edweek.org/teaching-learning/what-happens-when-every-teacher-in-a-school-has-the-tools-to-improve-reading/2024/10
U.S. Rep. Robin Kelly, along with two other Illinois Democratic delegates, toured the halls of Rich Township High School on Thursday to view the school’s commercial-grade kitchen and food pantry.  “It makes me very, very proud to represent this area,” Kelly remarked. “Many years ago I lived in this area, the town next door. My kids graduated from the school system. I’m very proud to see the school doing things like this. It’s very meaningful.”  Kelly was joined by state Rep. Debbie Meyers-Martin and Matteson Mayor Sheila Chalmers-Currin on the tour, which took place just days before the Democratic National Convention opens Monday in Chicago. Cook County Commissioner Monica Gordon and Richton Park Mayor Rick Reinbold were also in attendance.  The Fine Arts and Communication Campus at 5000 Sauk Trail has seen substantial renovations in recent years, creating “a space that really takes care of the community,” according to District 227 Superintendent Johnnie Thomas.  Additional renovations include a television broadcasting production area, an athletic director’s office equipped with medical facilities for injury treatment, a large weight room, a gym featuring a 200-meter indoor track, and an armory for the naval cadet program.  “The more attention and focus we can put to making sure that we are funded in a supportive way, and that we have the support of the community, allows for us to do great ideas,” Thomas said. “A lot of times, when people hear ‘no’ constantly, it just stifles creativity.”
Two Rich Township Scholars Experience Oxford University this Summer  Rich Township High School District 227 proudly announces that two of its exceptional students, Anuoluwapo Salami and Cheri Turner, had the unique opportunity to attend a prestigious summer program at Oxford University in the United Kingdom. The program provided these scholars with a platform to explore their academic passions in world-class settings, surrounded by peers and mentors from around the globe.  Anuoluwapo Salami, a senior at Rich Township High School, focused on Curing Medicine and Disease during her time at Oxford. Her studies explored the latest advancements in medical research, focusing on innovative treatments and approaches to combating various diseases. Anuoluwapo’s dedication to learning and her passion for the medical field have driven her to seize this opportunity, gaining invaluable insights into the future of medicine.  Cheri Turner, a sophomore at Rich Township High School, immersed herself in Business and Entrepreneurship. During the program, Cheri learned from distinguished business leaders, explored cutting-edge concepts in innovation, and developed entrepreneurial strategies. Her time at Oxford allowed her to enhance her understanding of global business practices and entrepreneurial leadership.  “This opportunity to study at Oxford University is a testament to the commitment, resilience, and ambition of both Anuoluwapo and Cheri,” said Dr. Johnnie Thomas, Superintendent of Rich Township High School District 227. “Their experiences will undoubtedly shape their future endeavors, and we are incredibly proud to see our students represented at such a prestigious institution.”  Rich Township High School District 227 remains committed to providing opportunities that encourage academic excellence and global exposure. These experiences empower students like Anuoluwapo and Cheri to push the boundaries of their knowledge and gain perspectives that will influence their future academic and professional pursuits.
NSPRA
Jaxon Hainey, Board Secretary Tiffany Taylor, Kamari Taylor Garrett, Dr. Johnnie Thomas
J Mitchell
G. Taylor
Future Ready
Scholarship Recipients
Black History Month Showcase
1st Semester Achievements
2nd Annual UNCF Gala
Susan Lundgren
Raptor Reflection with Betsy Williams
Honor Roll
WestEd Partnership
Kamari and Nahreisha Tate
Mia Carter with President Bonds and Dr. Thomas
IB World School
CUBE Conference