When Mike O’Shea first enrolled at St. Laurence High School in Burbank, a decade ago, he never anticipated the school would undergo such significant growth and transformation. As a 2020 graduate and member of the school’s alumni associate board, O’Shea recalled his early days as one of the few students from his grammar school in Lemont. Over the years, he witnessed extensive changes including renovations to the school building and athletic facilities and the school’s significant transition to co-education during his sophomore year.
Established as an all-boys Catholic school in 1961, St. Laurence started admitting female students during the 2017-18 academic year following the closure of the neighboring Queen of Peace high school. “Neither my friends nor I expected this change during our time there,” O’Shea said. “It made the school more enjoyable and definitely enriched the culture and sense of community, especially when we connected with the Queen of Peace students who joined us.”
Mike Madera, the vice president of enrollment and communications, explained that continuous expansion has been key to the school’s success, drawing students from over 90 ZIP codes and 190 grade schools. Currently, the school enrolls 1,247 students, more than double its count from 11 years ago. On September 14, construction began on a new athletic field house, a 34,000-square-foot facility expected to be completed by fall 2027. Highlighting the school’s focus on athletics, Madera said, “We invest heavily in athletics to provide a great space for kids to refine their skills while enjoying their youth.”
Since O’Shea’s graduation, the school has undertaken various renovation projects, including upgraded hallways, a new gym floor, a teaching kitchen, a renovated cafeteria, and additions to the foyer. According to Joseph Martinez, the school’s president and a 1999 graduate, St. Laurence’s unique academic offerings play a crucial role in preparing students for success. The school was the first in Illinois to be accredited with a STEM program and offers both an international baccalaureate diploma program and opportunities for students to earn college credits.
“I like how they switched it up instead of just being talked at all the time,” said Henry Flanagan, a sophomore.
Henry Flanagan, a sophomore at St. Laurence, shared that his high school experience vastly differs from his time in grammar school. Within a year, he was elected to student council, participated in various sports teams, and contributed to the establishment of a club focused on medical interests. He praised the school’s innovative teaching methods, highlighting that learning often involves understanding concepts from different perspectives rather than rote memorization for tests.
Flanagan expressed enthusiasm about the hands-on learning opportunities that have proven beneficial, such as the school’s four-year aviation program. This program promises field trips, a study of aviation design, and preparation for Federal Aviation Administration certification. “While some kids spend four years in gym class, I’m learning to fly a plane, which is truly unique,” noted Flanagan.
Challenges in federal funding, tuition costs, and low enrollment have led to the closure of many Catholic schools in the Chicago area, unlike the success seen at St. Laurence. Martinez attributes this success to the school’s strong investment in student support. He mentioned fundraising initiatives like The True Viking Campaign, a $12.5 million effort to secure investments. The school also provides scholarships and tuition discounts for siblings, alumni, and first responders.
Madera emphasized the school’s commitment to acknowledging and bridging diverse socioeconomic and educational backgrounds. O’Shea advised freshmen at St. Laurence to explore new opportunities, saying, “Stepping out of your comfort zone is challenging, especially starting a new high school journey. I recommend embracing all the opportunities St. Laurence presents.”