By Salem Chicago News Staff
RICHTON PARK — Sept. 18, 2026 — Rich Township High School District 227 celebrated a cohort of alumni who enrolled at Southern Illinois University Carbondale this fall, continuing what the district calls its “Raptors to Salukis” pipeline.
The district announced the milestone on Sept. 18, highlighting graduates Aaliyah Benitez and Dainelle Ellington, who were awarded Chancellors’ Scholarships during the previous school year. Both are STEM Campus graduates of Rich Township.
The story reflects District 227’s broader effort to build college-readiness pathways for students in Chicago’s south suburbs. The district has partnered with SIU Carbondale and other universities to create mentorship programs and financial aid opportunities.
SIU Carbondale Chancellor Austin Lane visited Rich Township in October 2025 to announce expanded admissions access and full-ride scholarship opportunities. The visit signaled the university’s continued investment in Cook County’s south suburban communities.
Rich Township was also selected in September 2026 as one of 21 high schools statewide to partner with the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign through its Dual Credit @ Illinois initiative. That program allows high school students to earn college credit while still enrolled in their secondary school.
District 227 has worked with regional partners to expand college access across the south suburbs. The district has participated in events like the LAUNCH College Admissions Event hosted by Southland College Prep Charter High School, where students and families met admissions representatives from Cornell University, Emory University, Pomona College, Rice University and Washington University.
Superintendent Johnnie Thomas has led the district’s efforts to expand postsecondary opportunities. In February 2026, the district hosted a Scholarship Gala expected to surpass $1 million in awards.
Rich Township High School District 227 serves students in Richton Park, Park Forest, Matteson and surrounding communities in southern Cook County. The district operates multiple campuses, including its STEM Campus and Fine Arts Campus.
