Schools Faced With Increasing Enrollments Need Planning

Faced with increased enrollments that could double in the next 20 years, one high school in Illinois acquires a nearby aging golf course.

1 minute read

December 27, 2003, 1:00 PM PST

By Connie Chung


Mundelein High School, like other schools, was faced with the question of "what to do when expansion is necessary but available land is scarce and pricey." Fortunately, they were able to purchase a nearby golf course. Other schools, however, are not as fortunate. "Many Chicago-area school districts are struggling with the same issue as new homes send additional students to existing schools while eating up available land for new ones." John McIlwain, a senior housing fellow at ULI commented: " 'You see it happening everywhere....The fact is that there is land, but what these counties have failed to do is...plan.' "

Thanks to Connie Chung

Tuesday, December 23, 2003 in The Chicago Tribune

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