A community engagement initiative of Central CHSD 71.
Dear Central Families, Alumni, and Friends,
Welcome to this special edition of Elevate, a magazine dedicated to celebrating the incredible students, programs, and traditions that make Central Community High School one of the highest performing districts in the State of Illinois.
In these pages, you’ll find stories that embody the spirit of Central and the many ways our school fosters growth, leadership, and opportunity. You’ll read about students like Grant Creek, whose academic achievements and community involvement inspire all of us, and dedicated educators like Steve Ellis, whose guidance in the shop and on the golf course shapes the futures of countless young people.
There’s also the remarkable story of Sophia Kennett, a Central alumna whose dreams have taken her to the esteemed halls of Stanford University, and the transformative impact of programs like those led by Gina Benhoff and Harley Painter, who are cultivating life skills and leadership in their students.
These stories reflect not only the achievements of our students and staff but also the incredible support of our Central High School community. It’s this partnership—between school, families, and the greater community—that allows us to provide the resources, programs, and opportunities our students need to thrive.
The efforts of Parents and Alumni Working for Students (PAWS) and the Committee to Support Central (CSC) play a pivotal role in this success. Together, these organizations raise funds that enhance every facet of student life, from academic initiatives to extracurricular programs. Thanks to your support, we’ve been able to fund new equipment, provide scholarships, and introduce programs that set Central apart as a model for excellence.
Together, we can build on Central’s legacy of excellence and make an even greater impact on the lives of our students. Thank you for being part of this journey, and for your continued support of the incredible work happening at Central Community High School.
Warm regards,
John Attaway, Dr. Dustin Foutch Craig Revermann
President, PAWS Superintendent, CCHS President, CSC
Anthony Huegen: Master of Many Paths
Central Football: It’s About the Love.
Crafting a Creative Legacy: Christa Wessel’s Transformative Art Room at Central
Dream Big, Work Hard: Sophia Kennett’s Journey from Clinton County to Stanford University
From the Fields to the Future: Lauren Wolter’s Passionate Pursuit of Excellence
Gina Benhoff’s STEP Program is Transforming Lives at Central
Guiding the Future: Trisha Lohman’s Role in Shaping Central Students’ Journeys
Harley Painter is Cultivating Growth: The Transformative Ag Program at Central
Harnessing Community Strength: PAWS
Julianne Jacob’s Impact as Educator and Cheer Coach
More Than a Number: Grant Creek’s Journey of Excellence at Central
Rising to the Challenge: Jensen Tebbe’s Bountiful Buffet of Opportunity
Shaping Lives with Precision: Steve Ellis and His Multifaceted Legacy at Central
The Backbone of a Community—The Twin Pillars of CSC and PAWS
