Lights, turf needed at Glenbard West
Over the past three years, a small group of parents and I have explored an initiative called "Gain Ground." Our mission was to enhance Glenbard West's limited field space in a way that "Gains Ground" for our students, faculty and community.
West has a very real need. With just nine acres of available field space, it has less than half any other school in Glenbard High School District 87. Increased student interest in outdoor sports and activities is creating demand for field space that far exceeds supply. Unfortunately, the existing natural turf on Duchon and Memorial cannot withstand the daily wear and tear. Just go visit these fields to see their current condition after only three months of use.
To fill the need, West buses kids off campus to remote fields for both practices and even "home" games. This wastes funds and time, reduces student safety, burns gas, and creates scheduling havoc.
Despite our efforts, we have not been able to convince the Glen Ellyn Park District to partner and invest in this initiative for the good of all taxpayers in the community. Gain Ground's recommended solution is to put synthetic turf and lights on these two fields. It keeps our kids safe and on-campus, addresses both curricular (band and PE) and extracurricular needs, maximizes the limited field space capacity for the broader community, and dramatically improves the quality of our facilities. Just visit Wheaton North or WWS to see our vision in place.
This initiative is not about synthetic turf and lights, per se. It is not about challenging traditions and establishing Friday Night football. It is not about equity and parity with other District 87 schools. It is about keeping kids safe and on campus.
Yes, there are remaining issues that require thoughtful input. However, similar to the issues raised a few years ago when District 87 invested in Biester Fieldhouse, we remain confident that most concerns are addressable and that, on the whole, the community will benefit greatly.
Jay Crookston
Glen Ellyn