The opening of the new Foster School in Evanston is an event that has sparked a range of emotions across the community. While there is excitement and anticipation, it is also tinged with skepticism and a sense of bittersweet nostalgia. The new school, sharing a campus with the Fleetwood-Jourdain Community Center and the old Foster School, aims to address the long-standing calls for a new educational facility in the Fifth Ward.
The history of Foster School is deeply intertwined with the desegregation efforts in Evanston's public schools. In 1967, the old Foster School played a pivotal role in implementing District 65's desegregation plan, which involved converting it into a magnet school and redistributing students to achieve racial balance. However, this decision was not without controversy, as it led to the closure of the school in 1979, causing discontent among many Black leaders and community members.
Fast forward to 2012, and the district proposed a referendum for a new K-5 school in the Fifth Ward. Despite strong support from African American leaders and the RoundTable's editorial, the referendum failed, with a significant majority voting against it. This setback did not deter the board, which revisited the issue in 2022 and unanimously approved the construction of a new school.
The financing and construction process has been complex, utilizing a nominee bank and lease certificates to fund the project. This approach has raised concerns about the district's ability to manage the financial obligations, especially with the increasing transportation costs and the school's estimated price tag now at $65 million.
From an architectural perspective, the new Foster School building leaves much to be desired. Its massive size, lack of landscaping, and clashing color scheme make it an unappealing addition to the neighborhood. Additionally, the school's initial enrollment figures are lower than expected, and the student body will be more diverse than the predominantly Black school of the 1960s.
Despite these challenges and criticisms, the new Foster School represents a step forward for the community. It is a symbol of the district's commitment to providing educational opportunities in the Fifth Ward, an area that has historically lacked such resources. While it may not match the emotional connection and significance of the old school, it serves as a reminder that progress often involves compromise and adaptation.
As the 320 children begin their educational journey in Evanston's newest public school, the heritage hall within the building will serve as a testament to the school's history and the community's resilience. Foster School, in its new incarnation, aims to be more than just a building; it is a place where children will be educated, nurtured, and inspired to become leaders and innovators in a rapidly changing world.
