1 laptop for each student
Fall, 2010
For the first time, each student is provided with a school-owned netbook to use for the year.
Lab Schools provide placement for 1/3 of ISU students completing clinical experiences
2011-12
452 schools across Illinois are required to provide the remaining teacher education placements.
English teacher Kathy Clesson retires after 37 years
2011
Kathy served as department chair and clinical experiences coordinator, and was a leader in integrating technology into her curriculum.
Marching Pioneers perform at the Gator Bowl
2012
The band took first place in the Class 1A Parade Competition on New Year’s Eve and swept all of the caption awards. On January 1, 2012, they performed in front of 50,000 fans during the halftime show.
New fitness room opens
February 2012
Located above the industrial technology area, the room includes new bicycles, treadmills and ellipticals. In addition, a new audio system and multiple flat screen televisions have been installed.
Superintendent Bob Dean retires
2012
Dean served as superintendent for 18 years and was instrumental in creating strong connections with alumni, growing the technology/engineering program, and implementing technology throughout the school.
Michelle Meyer named Illinois Boys Swimming & Diving Coach of the Year
2013-14
Meyer’s team became the only high school south of I-80 to win an IHSA Swimming and Diving State Championship (boys or girls) since the single class championships began in 1932.
New weight room
2013-14
A State of Illinois grant of $400k helped cover the cost of the advanced facility, as well as needed remodeling of the boys and girls locker rooms.
Pioneer Palooza highlights 50 year celebration of U-High building
2015
Former student Dan Hubbard headlined the events which also showcased the wide range of talents of U-High students. The event raised over $3500 for renovations to the music department.
Stonewall named Pantagraph Athlete of the Year
2015
Star athlete Chante Stonewall was the Pantagraph basketball player of the year, and she won the 2A state title in the 300 meter hurdles for the second consecutive year.
Time capsule from 1965 opened
Fall, 2015
The capsule had been sealed in the new U-High building upon it’s opening 50 years prior.
U-High joins the Central State Eight Conference
2016
U-High’s membership in the Corn Belt Conference dated back to 1950. The decision was made based on the fact that because of the IHSA multiplier, U-High teams consistently have to compete against larger schools in the post-season.
Coach Lester Hampton inducted into Illinois Cross Country Coaches Hall of Fame
2017
Hampton coached boys and girls cross country and track and field for over 30 years, leading them to 10 IHSA state trophies, and coaching over 78 athletes to all-state honors.
