The demolition of historic Lincoln School

A wave of nostalgia crashed upon Highland Parkers this month as the demolition of Lincoln School commenced.

Bulldozers are well on their way to deconstructing the longtime grammar school that stood in Highland Park since 1909. The final school year for Lincoln School, 711 Lincoln Avenue West, was 2017-’18.

Facing budgetary concerns, North Shore School District 112’s School Board voted to close the school, along with Elm Place Middle School, in October 2017. The district pursued consolidation instead of renovations and additions, which would have needed a successful referendum.

The district now operates nine schools as well as its administration building.

The board then approved the property’s sale for $1.91 million to Alta Capital Partners in 2023. Alta’s plans for the property are unclear.

At the time of the sale, Superintendent Dr. Michael Lubelfeld said, “The difficult but necessary decision to sell Lincoln School is part of the District 112 Long-Range Facilities Modernization Plan. The school and its history will remain in our hearts, minds and memories.”

Highland Park voters approved a $114-million referendum in 2022 to fund the facilities plan, which includes renovations and security upgrades throughout district facilities.

Lincoln School’s iconic clock was preserved by the school district. The clock was designed in 1929 by renowned architect John Van Bergen in honor of Nell Sayfarth, a former School Board member and Woman’s Club president. The clock is called “The Flight of Time” and will be installed at nearby Ravinia Elementary School once renovations to that school are complete. Other memorabilia from the old building was also removed before the sale and will be displayed in other district schools.

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