Business Details
Your Trusted High School for Academic Excellence in Oak Park, IL
Founded in 1875, Oak Park & River Forest High School has served as a cornerstone of educational excellence for over 150 years. Our institution is dedicated to fostering academic rigor, artistic exploration, and athletic achievement through a comprehensive curriculum and diverse extracurricular opportunities. With eight academic divisions offering approximately 250 courses, we prioritize personalized learning pathways that prepare students for college, career, and life.Our commitment to equity and inclusion is reflected in programs like the Bobbie Raymond Summer Enrichment Grant and robust support systems for students of all abilities. As a community-driven institution, we maintain strong partnerships with alumni, families, and local organizations to enhance educational experiences and ensure student success.
Services
Academic Programs
Athletics
Student Activities
College Counseling
Summer School
Highlights and features
- We offer 250+ courses across eight academic divisions for personalized learning paths
- Our 31 competitive sports programs compete at 95+ levels with professional coaching
- Award-winning arts programs include visual arts, theater, and music performance
- 150-year legacy of educational excellence with strong alumni network support
- Comprehensive student support includes mental health resources and equity initiatives
Services
Academic Programs
Our academic programs provide 250+ courses across eight divisions including English, mathematics, sciences, and world languages. Students access Advanced Placement, dual credit, and specialized electives while receiving personalized support through tutoring and MTSS frameworks. The curriculum emphasizes college readiness and career exploration with resources like the College and Career Pathway Endorsement.
Athletics
With 31 sports programs competing at 95+ levels, our athletics department emphasizes skill development, teamwork, and sportsmanship. Students participate in IHSA-sanctioned competitions while accessing concussion management protocols, sports medicine services, and NCAA eligibility guidance through partnerships with Athletico and Midwest Orthopedics at Rush.
Student Activities
Over 100 student organizations include performing arts, academic clubs, and leadership opportunities. The Visual Arts Department hosts annual exhibitions while the Orchesis Dance Company presents contemporary performances. Special events like Careers in the Arts Night connect students with professional networks in creative fields.
Special Education
Our Special Education division provides tailored learning plans, assistive technology resources, and transition programs for students with diverse needs. Certified staff implement Individualized Education Programs (IEPs) while collaborating with families through regular progress reviews and support groups.
Summer School
Summer academic and enrichment programs include credit recovery courses, STEM workshops, and arts intensives. The Bobbie Raymond Summer Enrichment Grant supports student participation in educational experiences that promote continued learning and personal growth during school breaks.
People
Dr. Jennifer Hester
Assistant Superintendent for Student Learning
Dr. Jennifer Hester leads curriculum development and academic initiatives with 20+ years of educational leadership experience. She oversees course offerings and teacher training while maintaining focus on equity in student achievement.
Nicole Ebsen
Athletic Director
Nicole Ebsen manages interscholastic athletics programs with emphasis on student-athlete safety and compliance. She coordinates 31 sports teams and partners with medical professionals to ensure high standards in sports medicine and concussion management.
Angie Hawkins
Director of Student Activities
Angie Hawkins oversees 100+ student organizations and extracurricular programs. With 15 years in student development, she focuses on creating inclusive opportunities that enhance leadership skills and school community engagement.
Questions
What academic programs does OPRFHS offer?
We provide 250+ courses across eight divisions including Advanced Placement, dual credit, and specialized electives in STEM, arts, and humanities with personalized learning support.
How do students join athletic teams?
Students register through the SNAP website and attend tryouts starting August 10. Physical exams are required, and sports medicine services are available through our athletic training partners.
What student organizations are available?
Over 100 clubs include academic teams, performing arts groups, and special interest organizations. New clubs can be formed with faculty sponsorship and student interest.
How does the school support college preparation?
We offer college counseling, NCAA eligibility guidance, and the College and Career Pathway Endorsement program. Honest Game provides academic compliance tracking for student-athletes.
What safety measures are in place?
Our comprehensive safety plan includes emergency protocols, security personnel, and trauma-informed interventions. Facilities meet accessibility standards with accommodations available for all events.
Reviews (1)
Laurens Ackerman
Jul 29, 2012
Report
I graduated from OPRFHS in 1956 after receiving an excellent education. I now have two advanced degrees, MD and PhD partially based on the fine math and science education I received at OPRFHS. I hope the quality of educaiton still stands after these many years.
