Ground Breaking - 28 September 2006

Wednesday 27th September saw a very memorable occasion take place, the ground breaking ceremony for the new British School of Chicago which will open in January 2008 at Halstead and Eastman in Lincoln Park. This purpose built school will have space for approximately 700 pupils.

Ms Sheree Speakman, COO for British Schools of America, opened proceedings by outlining the many successes of the British School of Chicago in the 5 years that it has been opened. Ms Speakman introduced Mr Michael Horton the present Headmaster who had opened the school on 10th September 2001 with 15 pupils. He outlined his excitement at being present at this event and spoke about his concerns when he first arrived in August 2001 when there were only 4 children enrolled! The headmaster concluded by thanking all of the staff, parents and children for their support and input in assisting in making the first 5 years so successful. He finished by thanking the WCLS board for their faith and support during this time.

Ms Speakman next introduced the WCLS CEO Mr. Dennis Hallahane, who congratulated BSC on their success over these first five years and outlined the other successes of WCLS including the opening of two new schools in Doha and India.

Mr Hallahane was followed Mr Ted Matlock the Alderman for this ward that the school is being built in. Mr Matlock welcomed the school into the community and looked forward to the further development of this area.

Finally Mr. Andrew Seaton, her majesty’s British Consul spoke about his pride in the reputation of BSC, and looked forward to it’s further growth.

Ms Speakman concluded with her thanks to the WCLS board for their attendance, all parents, the alderman and the British Consul and in particular the children from the BSC orchestra who had played so well during the ground breaking ceremony.