Morton plans to build a new trade school right here in Cicero, with construction expected to begin in 2027 or 2028.
The new trade school will offer programs similar to those already available, such as construction trades, auto mechanics, welding, as well as many new programs that will be added.
“It will be south of Morton Freshman Center. Morton owns all the property by the Pink Line, all the way to the factories on 16th. The trade school will be built in the next three years, either 2027 or 2028. We have not yet decided what programs will be included, but it will be an extension of the programs we have now, as well as programs we do not have, such as diesel mechanics, plane technicians, engineering, electrical, plumbing, and welding. But it is still undecided. We are planning to hire fresh staff for the trades. I do not know yet; we are still planning, but we think the funds will come from federal grants. However, we still do not know how big the school is going to be, so funding remains an issue,” said Principal Mr. Gamboa.
While some teachers have questions about how students will get there or who will be eligible, others are excited about the possibilities.
“I am extremely excited for Morton to become a leader in education for trades. I know they asked us for teachers and students to complete a survey, which was for ideas on what trades should be included. I think that the school is going to be built by the Freshman Center or Unity. I do have a couple of questions: Will it be available for all district students? If so, how will they be transported? Also, what will happen to the trades at Morton East and West?” said Civics teacher Brenda Lopez.
Some teachers are more focused on their seniors’ futures.
“I have not thought about the new trade school. I am currently focusing on my seniors’ future endeavors. Maybe if I get an offer for a new position in the new school, I will consider it. They have included me in the plans, but I do not know about any new developments,” said Construction teacher Rick Robilotta.
Other teachers are excited about Morton expanding its educational offerings with the new trade school.
“I think the new trade school is a great idea. It is pushing in the right direction to allow students to succeed. Morton is on track to match other trade schools across the country. If they offered me a new position, it would be the biggest thing I would consider, if they added commute time. There have been talks about new teachers, and more discussions will follow. They want to create new positions to fill those tracks, and my question is, how do the students feel?” said Construction teacher Ryan De Paola.
Some students, however, are unaware of the new trade school.
“I never even heard that they are building one. No one told me or even mentioned it. It sucks that we seniors do not get to experience that,” said Senior Aaron Nunez.
Even some Juniors feel left out of not being able to go to it.
“No, I haven’t heard about Morton building a new trade school. I feel excited that they are going to build one, but I wish, though, that it was during our year,” said Junior Sebastian Avila.
Some think that it’s exciting for the new building.
“No, I haven’t heard of it either. It’s cool that they are going to build it, and it’s going to be big too,” said Junior Edwin Hernandez.
