Did you know Oak Park’s history is filled with engaging stories, like the origins of its mascot, the significance of the Northman title, and even their Alumni Hall of Fame?

In 1965, when the title “the Northmen” was introduced, it faced resistance from students, who even created a petition against it.

Students stated in the petition, “We students of Oak Park dislike the mascot name “The Northmen” and want it changed.”

Oak Park’s mascot, Norman the Northman, was inspired by the school’s proximity to Oak Grove Park which is named after its oak trees. Before Norman’s existence, he was just an idea of the students. It wasn’t until a student and coeditor of The Northmen’s Log Steve Austin, sketched the first drawing of Norman in September 1965 that the idea came to life.

Beyond title and mascot, OP’s history is celebrated through its Alumni Hall of Fame for graduates ranging from the earliest grads to the newest graduate Laura Hay, class of 2006, for community service.

According to the NKC school district website, “They inspire and encourage present students to excel in their chosen fields of endeavor.”

There are lot of other hall of famers who worked in business, athletics/sports, community/public service, military, and many others. This included politics, because one of the many alumni, Ryan Silvey, former Missouri state senator was also a hall of famer.