Health & Fitness
Father of Seven Optimistic About Study Group Process
Bannockburn resident voices support for changes at DHS and HPHS.
Tony Horwitz stumbled upon Bannockburn 23-years ago and has lived there ever since. “I feel lucky to have moved here because I didn’t know what I was getting,” the retired emergency room doctor said.
A top-notch public education was a high priority for Horwitz, who has seven children, some of whom are currently at Deerfield High School. “I feel like I hit the
jackpot,” the Wilmette native stated, which is why he decided to volunteer for one of District 113’s study groups.
For several months, more than 100 volunteers have been analyzing District 113’s
facility-technology plan for Deerfield and Highland Park high schools. Residents were divided into six teams comprised of a market research, teaching and learning, PE/athletics/pool, finance, building systems, and leadership group. Participants have been trying to figure out where and how the high schools can improve.
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“There are pretty glaring obvious needs,” Horwitz said, who currently sits on the building systems study group. “The high schools are old. They’ve been exceptionally well maintained. They’re just old.”
Horwitz believes DHS and HPHS need to improve their infrastructure, functionality,
electrical and computer equipment to create an optimal learning environment for
students and an ideal teaching situation for staff.
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“You can’t attract the best teachers when you can’t show them a quality working environment,” Horwitz said.
“I’m not looking for extravagance, I’m looking for value,” he explained and has been impressed by District 113’s commitment to getting community members involved.
“I’m pleased with the process.” he commented. “This process sought to bring in new people, those with disparaged opinions.”
Horwitz feels now that everyone’s had the chance to voice their feelings it’s time to
“walk the walk” and make some upgrades.
“As far as I’m concerned, this is sort of the legacy you leave in your community,” he stated and wants to make sure District 113’s future is as bright as it has been
in the past.
