This school year, a new piece of history was added to the walls of Palatine High School. A board that now reads “Nancy N. Robb Natatorium” is located just above the pool entrance, honoring the former PHS principal and Township High School District 211 superintendent, whose vision revolutionized aquatic facilities throughout the district.
Staff, family, and community members came together for a formal dedication ceremony on Thursday, Sept. 18, to officially recognize the naming of the upgraded aquatic facility in honor of Nancy Robb.
“It was a privilege to work in District 211 for 34 years. My fondest memories were the 12 years as principal at Palatine High School. (Go Pirates!) Together, we created a school where the spirit, pride and tradition of excellence were unique,” Robb said.
Although the pool renaming in Robb’s honor was proposed in 2020, the COVID-19 pandemic took priority and halted this. However, her legacy received fresh attention this year thanks to the official naming of the natatorium carried out through the dedication ceremony and the addition of new signage. Given that the school is also commemorating its 150th anniversary this year, the recognition is particularly significant.
“Having the naming of the PHS Natatorium was truly an honor. It is a tribute to the extraordinary staff and district administrators who consistently focused on providing exceptional opportunities for students,” Robb said.
Robb led the effort to update and renovate all of District 211’s high school pools while she was superintendent. Modern natatoriums built by the renovations revolutionized physical education, athletics, and community involvement throughout the district.
“The renovation of the five district pools was the right thing to do,” Robb said. “We were able to better serve current and future students, athletes and community members in a state-of-the-art facility.”
Robb’s plan and recommendations resulted in the renovation of five of the district’s high school aquatic facilities, improving lighting, seating and so much more. Her vision allowed D211 pools to better serve students and community members while being held up to Illinois High School Association (IHSA) competitive standards.
“This was a state-of-the-art update of the facility for all of the schools that impacted not only our boys and girls swim teams, but also boys and girls water polo teams,” said Luis Arroyo, the athletic director at PHS. “In addition, it impacted our wellness programs to help give a well-rounded experience during school, for all of our students across the district.”
The Palatine Park District and locals frequently use the pool, which has evolved into a community center beyond sports. The Nancy N. Robb Natatorium has been a part of many students’ lives since before they even started high school, and it will remain a place that unites students, families, and neighbors for many years to come.
“It is truly fitting to dedicate the naming of our pool to the ‘Nancy N. Robb Natatorium,’” Arroyo said.
The ceremony on Thursday wasn’t just about a name on a wall. It was about recognizing a leader whose commitment to student experience and community connection will have a lasting impact on District 211 for years to come.
