School History

Please share any info on the history of the high school here. Louise Ash emailed this morning and reminded me that the first graduating class for the Gates Chili High School was the Class of 1961.

The Gates Chili School District was created in 1956, as growth in the community created a need for it.

The school mascot has always been the "Spartan". A simple blue Spartan was used in my graduating class, but I have noticed that he has changed with the times!

The yearbook was called the "Gateways" when I graduated. I assume it is the same now. For the class of 1966, it was a dark blue bound book. I lost mine years ago, but I will try to get a pic of ours.

I hear that there is a building project planned for the high school, so I wanted to put some info her for the history:
The original high school address was 910 Wegman Rd. The building itself, was designed in a courtyard setting. At the south end of the school there was an open courtyard with a beautiful view of the outdoors. That courtyard was a catalyst for many daydreams!

The library was in the north end; gymnasium was located in the northwest corner with doors going on the 'fields' (soccer, football, field hockey); industrial ('shop') classroom at the northeast corner; auditorium and cafeteria was in the east section, near the center. Lockers were lined on many of the walls.

I also remember the exact placement of the principal's office (I spent a few hours there!). It was at the very south end of the building, in the center, with a door open so that everyone could see who was in trouble!

The toughest class to get into was 'driver's ed'. We all wanted to drive back then!

I will add more as I remember.