Groundbreaking ceremony marks start of Forrestal School rebuild at Naval Station Great Lakes

NORTH CHICAGO, Ill. — An elementary school at Naval Station Great Lakes that needs significant improvements is being demolished and rebuilt.

Forrestal School has had its share of issues for years, from a lack of air conditioning throughout most of the building to no drinking water.

“We can’t remediate the lead in the pipes, so we’re bringing bottled water in for our children every day,” said Dr. John Price, District 187 superintendent.

Forrestal Elementary School parent Brittany Sutti said classes had been canceled in the past due to the heat.

“When it’s not too bad they have to cycle the kids they’re in and out of the cafeteria, the library, the gym trying to keep them moving around because it’s so hot in those classes,” Sutti said.

Local and state leaders have sought financial resources to help remedy the school’s woes for years. It’s why members of the North Chicago community say getting word that a new school building will be built has brought a lot of excitement to the community.

The new and improved Forrestal Elementary School, which serves as the primary elementary school serving military-connected students and families within the district, is expected to reopen in August 2026. The old building will be torn down and transformed into a student sports field.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WGN-TV.