New Berlin's first high school hits a new milestone

New Berlin - It's a good bet that when the community celebrates the 50th anniversary of New Berlin West Middle/High School, people will be jubilant, but not as jubilant as they were 50 years ago.

In 1962, the opening of New Berlin High School, as West was known back then, wasn't just about a new building. It was the city's first high school.

For the first time, New Berlin students wouldn't have to go to Brookfield, Muskego or West Allis to earn their diplomas.

In fact, establishing a local high school was the top priority when the New Berlin School District was formed in 1960. The new district brought nine elementary schools under its umbrella, and began construction of the high school before its first year was over.

By 1962, New Berlin High School, 18695 W. Cleveland Ave., was ready to open its doors.

Changed over time

For seven years, it was the only high school in the fast-growing city. When Eisenhower High School opened in 1969 at 4333 S. Sunny Slope Road, New Berlin High School changed its name to New Berlin West, reflecting its comparative geographical position.

To this day, West and Eisenhower maintain a well-known sports rivalry.

While Eisenhower became a middle school in addition to be a high school the second year it was open, West didn't start its middle school until the 1986-87 school year. Meanwhile, the district's one freestanding middle school was converted into an elementary school.

The new century brought new life to New Berlin West, which by then was close to 40 years old. An ambitious construction project resulted in a new theater, a new field house with an indoor track and tennis courts, an upgraded library and a new 10-classroom wing. Bathrooms and workout facilities were renovated as the multi-year project was topped off in 2007.

Anniversary events planned

Many of those who proudly were presented their diplomas through five decades of graduation ceremonies at the school will return Jan. 13 to be part of its 50th anniversary celebration.

Festivities will start with a 2:15 p.m. pep rally with games between sports teams, student athletic clubs and student organizations. A chili dinner and reception will be held, along with tours of the building. A "history walk" is slated between 5:30 and 7:30 p.m.

Then a real chance to relive old high school days will come along as alums take their place in the bleachers to cheer on the boys basketball team as it takes on Cudahy in a 7:30 p.m. battle. During halftime, the Parkland Conference championship teams from 1982-83 and 1983-84 will be honored.

Nearly all the team members will be able to make it back for the celebration, said Julie Kadar, director of athletics and activities. The ceremony will give another nod to a bit of history in that the school is no longer in the Parkland Conference, she noted. It's in the Woodland Conference now.

All during the week, excitement will build for the students; every day will bring something new as the anniversary approaches. The special doings will include trivia contests and dressup days when students will dress in the fashions of various decades.

Join the celebration

WHAT: New Berlin West Middle/High School 50th anniversary celebration

WHEN: Jan. 13

WHERE: New Berlin West, 18695 W. Cleveland Ave.

CONTACT: Those interested in attending any or all of the events and/or ordering a commemorative Celebrating 50 Years T-shirt for $10, contact: Julie Kader, director of athletics and activities, (262) 789-6409 or Julie.Kader@nbexcellence.org.

What's on tap?

Pep rally, 2:15 to 3 p.m.

Chili dinner and reception, 5:30 to 7:30 p.m.

Building tours, 5:30 to 7 p.m.

History Walk, 5:30 to 7:30 p.m.

Boys basketball game vs. Cudahy, 7:30 p.m.

Honoring 1982-83 and 1983-84 boys basketball Parkland Conference championship teams - during halftime