Durbin Celebrates Opening Of New Forrestal Elementary School At Naval Station Great Lakes

NORTH CHICAGO - U.S. Senate Democratic Whip Dick Durbin (D-IL) today visited North Chicago School District 187 to celebrate the official ribbon cutting of the new Forrestal Elementary School.

Durbin and U.S. Senator Tammy Duckworth (D-IL) helped secure a $57 million grant from the U.S. Department of Defense in 2024 for the new school. With this grant, Forrestal Elementary will be able to expand through fifth grade and serve 580 students, increasing the total population of military-connected students.

"When we invest in education, we help provide students with the tools they need to succeed both in and outside of the classroom," said Durbin. "I am thrilled to celebrate the opening of Forrestal Elementary today and I will continue to support our exemplary military families at Naval Station Great Lakes and their access to quality education."

"At Forrestal, the school is more than a place for learning; it is a stabilizing force for students and families," said Dr. John Price, Superintendent of North Chicago School District 187. "This building reflects our commitment to supporting the whole child and creating an environment where every student can thrive."

The new school will serve generations of students, many of whom come from military families navigating frequent relocations, parental deployments, and the emotional impact of global events. Designed with these realities in mind, Forrestal Elementary provides a consistent, welcoming environment where students and families can build community and feel a sense of belonging.

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