Welcome to West Ridge Center where we have something for everyone!
West Ridge Center Programs
- Adult Ceramics – in person
- After School Programs – in person
- ParkSchool – in person
- Dance – in person
- Theatre – in person
- Kindermusik – virtual
- Youth Art & Clay – in person (currently full, more to come in future brochures)
- Spring Break – Youth Art One Day Classes
- Martial Arts & Athletics – in person
Registration
Now accepting registration for safe, in-person programs! To view our Spring Brochure and register – click here.
To view our Summer Camp Brochure – click here.
Covid-19 Resurgence Mitigation
Your health, safety, and wellness is our number one priority. West Ridge Center is closed until it is determined we can safely reopen. Updates will be communicated to you via email and our social media pages.
Be sure to join our email list for updates on programs and facilities.
Facility Safety
Below brief video detailing the safety measures we have implemented to keep everyone safe. The measures will be continued and/or enhanced when we are able to reopen.
Contact:
Sara Stanke, Recreation Supervisor
847.579.3123
sstanke@pdhp.org
Cathy Fiori, Recreation Program Manager
847.579.3121
cfiori@pdhp.org
Registration Office
847.579.3128
registrations@pdhp.org
Registration for Summer S’More ParkSchool Session begins Feb 17 (age 4 by July 1st)
Registration for 2021-22 Fall & Winter begins Feb 17 (age 2, 3 or 4 by Sept 1st)
For Health and Safety procedures click here
At ParkSchool (Age 2-4)… we encourage your child to question, explore, and discover. Our unique curriculum nurtures your child’s curiosities and individuality, builds self-confidence and social skills, and prepares your child for kindergarten. ParkSchool provides your child with a Successful Beginning for a Bright Future.
- Exposure to Science, Technology, Recreation, Engineering, Art, and Mathematics (STREAM)
- Gain an appreciation for the natural world
- Development of sensory, cognitive, and motor skills
- Opportunity to cultivate meaningful friendships and peer collaboration
- Attain independence through critical thinking and problem-solving skills
- Build confidence through the exploration of self-expression and creativity.
ParkSchool prepares your child for the next important step: Ready… Set… Kindergarten!
After School Programs (K-5)
Registration for the spring session of After School programs begins Feb 17
Click here to view and register
After School Enrichment Programs at West Ridge Center (Grade K-5)
- Wide variety of activities including art, science, and cooking
- Foster social skill development
- Learn and practice independence
- Use creativity and imagination
- Develop an appreciation for learning
- Understand the importance of exercise in everyday life
Contact
Cathy Fiori
Recreation Program Manager
cfiori@pdhp.org
847-579-3121
Ceramics & Visual Art
Whether you are an artist, or are interested in learning more about art, we have the class for you. Adults can learn to handle, throw, and glaze works of art in out ceramics studio, equipped with wheels, electric and gas kilns, and a wide variety of glaze options. Classes include instruction as well as open studio hours. Children interested in art will enjoy expressing their creative side learning about all different clay & art mediums.
To register for adult art programs, click here.
Registration is available online, or at the Recreation Center of Highland Park. West Ridge Center is not available for registration at this time.
Health & Safety
To keep you, your family, our staff and community safe, we have implemented many procedures in accordance with recommendations from the CDC, DCEO, and IDPH. To read those guidelines, click here.
Additionally, open studio time will be available by reservation only to limit the amount of people in the studio and to assist in contact tracing. For enhanced safety, barriers will be placed between work stations and on shelves. Lockers will be assigned to patrons to store their belongings before entering the classroom. Gloves and cleaning supplies will also be provided. In the ceramics studio, a face mask must be work at all times, no exceptions.
Contact:
Sara Stanke, Recreation Supervisor
Phone: 847.579.3123
sstanke@pdhp.org
Dance makes a difference!
Whether you are already a dancer, looking to try dance for the first time, or just want to move and express yourself, we want to dance with you! Click here to register for available programs.
The Highland Park Studio for Dance and Performance is centered around a fun and nurturing environment that allows students to grow and advance at their own pace. Introductory classes focus on movement and coordination. Class levels progress to a more disciplined routine of stretching and proper techniques while promoting self-confidence. Our goal is to nurture each and every dancer while offering the highest level and quality of training. Our professional staff strives for greatness in the areas of attitude, teachable spirit, discipline, selflessness, and integrity. We encourage every dancer to their fullest potential both inside and outside the dance studio.
Attire:
Ballet classes:
Girls come dressed in leotards (without skirt or tutu), pink tights and pink ballet shoes.
Boys come dressed in black pants, white or black shirt, and black ballet shoes.
Hip-Hop and Tap:
Comfortable clothes (no jeans) and clean-soled shoes. No street shoes.
Modern and Contemporary classes:
Black pants (no bare knees), black leotard and no shoes
Jazz, Performance and Broadway classes:
Black pants (no bare knees), black leotard and black jazz shoes
Dance Instructors
Margo Proeh
Christina Privin
Contact:
Cathy Fiori
Recreation Program Manager
cfiori@pdhp.org
847-579-3121
A Little bit of everything…
Spring registration begins Feb. 17 for residents
We’re back in-person and working hard to expand programming to meet the needs of our community. If you have an idea that you would like us to consider, please give us a call. We would be happy to chat!
Current Ideas for Potential Programming!
Magic & Balloon Animal Making
Sewing
Ballroom Dancing
Music
Cooking
Art
For information please contact:
Sara Stanke, Recreation Supervisor
847-579-3123
Theatre & Performing Arts
Take your creativity, confidence, and self-expression to the next level! In co-operation with the Children’s Theatre Company, West Ridge Center offers the opportunity to learn and perform musical theatre, theatre, improve, blocking, and line memorization. Build friendships that will last a life time and boost your confidence and creativity as you shine like the star you are! Our accomplished professional instructors work with all age levels and abilities. No previous experience necessary. Click here to register!
Karate (Wednesdays): Click Here To Register For All Karate Programs
Instructors of the Illinois Shotokan Karate Club, under the direction of John DiPasquale, a four-time National Champion and former U.S. Karate National Coach, lead the Park District’s karate programs. Deerfield Park District residents, through a cooperative agreement, pay resident rates. This discount is not available through online registration.
Uniforms
Uniforms are not mandatory but are recommended at the beginning level. Uniforms are mandatory at the continuing, intermediate and advanced levels and program advancement is emphasized. Uniforms and belt testing are available through the ISKC instructor for an additional fee. Purchasing safety equipment ($50-100) is required for continuing, intermediate and advanced levels. Belt Testing Belt testing is available twice a year at various suburban locations for an additional fee. Uniforms and belt testing are available through ISKC instructor.
Youth Karate (Ages 8-14)
Karate skills put children in touch with their bodies and help build coordination, agility, strength and poise, as well as personal safety skills in a well-supervised setting. The confidence gained helps foster a strong positive self-image. The mental aspect builds confidence, control and discipline, and the physical aspect is enjoyable and beneficial.
Pre-Karate (Ages 4-7)
Through a variety of fun and creative activities, children develop coordination, strength and personal safety skills in a well-supervised setting. This program helps children develop memory and agility skills that are necessary for success in school and other sports.
Parent/Child Karate (Parent/Child, Ages 8 & Up)
Share quality time with your child while developing muscle tone, coordination, cardiovascular fitness and karate skills. Regardless of age, weight or current physical condition, karate can put your family on the right track to physical well-being.
Taekwondo (Mondays or Thursdays): Click Here To Register for All Taekwondo Programs
One of the newest Olympic sports is a 2000-year-old martial art offering a variety of benefits for people of all ages and physical abilities. Students have the opportunity to improve concentration and self-esteem, achieve lifelong physical fitness and learn self-defense skills. Classes are taught under the direction of Grand Master Ki Hong Kim (8th Dan World Tae Kwon Do Federation).
Uniforms
A $45 uniform fee is required at the first class. Belt testing is offered through the K.H. Kim’s Taekwondo (OATC) at an additional fee. All colored belt students are required to have complete sparring gears. Please note, after the second class the fee is not refundable.
Little Dragons (Ages 4-5)
This introductory class is designed to captivate the interest of our youngest students. Skills are developed through gentle instruction and appropriate games for their ability. This class focuses on developing balance, coordination and respect for the discipline of martial arts training.
Early Taekwondo (Ages 6-7)
Designed especially for younger children, this program helps kids develop conditioning, coordination, listening skills and self-confidence through creative activities.
Adult & Child Taekwondo (Parent/Child, Ages 7 & Up)
This class provides families with a fun opportunity to spend time together while improving physical and mental conditioning through cardiovascular drills, calisthenics and traditional Taekwondo techniques including punching, kicking and blocking.
Youth Taekwondo (Ages 8-13)
This program includes a balanced cardiovascular workout including punching, kicking and blocking skills using the Taekwondo tradition and self-control. Participants will improve coordination, power of concentration, balance and both physical and mental discipline.
Contact:
Michael Divencenzo
Athletics Coordinator
Phone: 847.579.3198
mdivencenzo@pdhp.org
Kindermusik Program Information
Click here to register!
VIRTUAL: Kindermusik Foundations (Adult/Child, Ages Newborn-16 Months)
Hear squeals of delight as your baby anticipates the next zoom lift and giggles while dancing and socializing. Babies enjoy wide-eyed excitement with tummy tickle rhymes, massage, and exploration time. This class stimulates the cognitive, social, emotional and physical development in the early days of your child’s life. We will participate in Zoom activities appropriate for the different stages of development for this age.
VIRTUAL: Kindermusik Level 2 (Adult/Child, Ages 16 Months-3 1/2)
Imagine twirling around the room, marching with happiness, and singing out with joy to the music! Led by licensed teachers who cherish your child’s blossoming social skills, children practice “turn taking” activities and finger games. This program addresses the whole child 
through singing, listening, moving and playing simple instruments. We will participate in Zoom activities appropriate for the different stages of development for this age group.
VIRTUAL: Kindermusik Level 3 (Ages 3-5)
Carefully integrated curriculum of music, pretend play, literature and a lot of movement. Children reflect, compare, make choices, express opinions, solve problems and interact with their peers virtually while letting their imaginations soar. We will participate in Zoom activities appropriate for the different stages of development for this age group.
Room Rental Contact
Debbie Pierce
Rental & Facility Manager
847-57-4047
dpierce @pdhp.org
Corona Virus Resurgence Mitigation
Your health, safety, and wellness is our number one priority. Due to the Coronavirus resurgence, the Mayor and Governor’s order; West Ridge Center is closed and not accepting rental requests until it is determined we can safely reopen. Updates will be communicated to you via email and our social media pages. Be sure to join our email list for updates on programs and facilities.
Park District of Highland Park Building Use Policy Rental Rules and Regulations
- Park District sponsored activities shall have priority in all facility usage.
- All rentals must be applied for in-person at the designated facility at which time full payment is required.
- Any individuals or groups applying for use of the facility must complete and submit the appropriate permit with the exception of scheduled Park District activities. The permits may be submitted no more than ninety (90) days prior to the proposed usage date and approved by the Center Supervisor dependent upon facility availability.
- Rentals are ninety percent (90%) refundable if reservation is canceled ten (10) or more working days prior to approved rental date.
- A refundable cleaning deposit will be charged. Cleaning deposits shall be refunded approximately two weeks after the date of rental if the group or individuals using the Center left the room in an orderly state. Please note: Additional fees will be assessed to the renter if there is any damage incurred by misuse of the facility and its property.
- All rental fees and charges are subject to change and are established annually by the Board.
Rental fees will be charged based on 2 divisions: Resident and nonresident. Proof of residency is required with a valid ID.
Individuals signing permit must be 21 years of age, be present during rental period and assume responsibility for all actions of the group and usage of the room and equipment including the chaperoning of minors. - A rental permit shall be revoked at any time due to misconduct of individuals, falsification of information, misuse of property or failure to comply with Center and Park District rules and regulations. Rental payment will be forfeited to the Park District and future permits will not be issued to group or individuals involved.
- Park District reserves the right to prohibit any rental application which is contrary to the public safety and welfare.
Any use of loudspeaker or public address instruments must be approved by the Park District. Necessary information must be submitted on rental application. - Rental information for each facility, including forms, fees, hours and duration, room availability, and rules/regulations are available at the designated facility.
- Permits for fund-raising activities must be submitted thirty (30) days prior to the proposed usage date and must be approved by the Board.
