Dist. 214 salutes Wheeling principal for math, science emphasis

In the past, high school graduates were divided into two groups: those who were going to college and those who weren't.

However Wheeling High School Principal Laz Lopez wants his students to graduate with more than just a diploma. So next year, Wheeling will increase its focus on math, science and technology for both college-bound and work-bound students.

For example, students will be able to become certified nursing assistants before they graduate - a certification that will help students who directly enter the work force and those who are heading to medical school.

Wheeling will also offer classes like metal working, computer-integrated manufacturing and engineering design and development.

To mimic the work world, an architectural lab that cost $500,000 was build this past summer.

For his work, Lopez was honored as this year's Elizabeth A. Ennis Innovative Educator Award. Ennis was District 214's superintendent for 15 years before she retired in 2005.

"That's always been one of my top goals, to have programs for all ability levels," said Lopez. "Not every kid is going to be an astrophysicist."

Lopez, 42, has been Wheeling's principal for three years. A Chicago native, he taught at Hersey before becoming principal at Wheeling.

District 214 board member Mimi Cooper was on the committee that picked Lopez to win the award.

"There were lots of good choices but what Laz did is use this program differently," Cooper said. "Instead of just for gifted kids, he tailored it for everyone."

Wheeling faces challenges other District 214 schools do not. For the past five years, enrollment at the school has dropped while the number of at-risk freshmen continues to climb. Wheeling also has the largest number of special education and English as a second language students.

In August, Lopez will host a conference at Wheeling about his school's new focus. About 350 teachers and educators are expected to attend.