student life
Careers
Sterling Public Schools prepares students for life beyond high school through a strong network of career pathways and community partnerships. Students gain real-world experience through programs in health care, construction, culinary arts, education, business, technology, and manufacturing. Through dual credit courses, internships, and CTE courses, students earn college credit, industry certifications, and hands-on skills that set them apart. Our partnerships with local businesses, WACC, and Sauk Valley Community College allow students to explore their interests, build their resumes, and even begin their careers while still in high school.
Careers
Sterling Public Schools prepares students for life beyond high school through a strong network of career pathways and community partnerships. Students gain real-world experience through programs in health care, construction, culinary arts, education, business, technology, and manufacturing. Through dual credit courses, internships, and CTE courses, students earn college credit, industry certifications, and hands-on skills that set them apart. Our partnerships with local businesses, WACC, and Sauk Valley Community College allow students to explore their interests, build their resumes, and even begin their careers while still in high school.
Clubs
At Sterling Public Schools, there’s something for everyone! With over 25 active clubs and organizations, students can explore interests in leadership, service, creativity, competition, and community involvement. Whether joining National Honor Society, FFA, Key Club, Student Council, Scholastic Bowl, or Key Club, students develop leadership, teamwork, and real-world skills that prepare them for success beyond graduation. Many of our clubs compete and earn recognition at state and national levels, while others provide meaningful ways to connect, serve, and grow together as a school community.
Fine Arts
Sterling Public Schools provides students with exceptional opportunities to explore and develop their artistic talents. From elementary art projects that spark imagination to high school programs that prepare students for college and beyond, creativity thrives at every level. Our visual arts students work with diverse materials and techniques — from ceramics and digital design to large-scale installations and stage sets. Sterling’s award-winning music programs, including band, choir, and orchestra, have been recognized for excellence and community engagement, earning the district the prestigious “Best Communities for Music Education” designation multiple years in a row. Performances such as the fall musical, marching band shows, and community concerts showcase the passion and dedication of our talented students and staff. Many of our graduates have gone on to pursue careers in the arts, music, and performance fields.
Athletics
Sterling Public Schools has a proud tradition of athletic excellence. From conference championships to state appearances, our Golden Warriors continue to make their mark across a wide range of sports. Sterling consistently ranks among the top athletic programs in our region, and our student-athletes are recognized not only for their performance on the field but also for their success in the classroom as Scholar Athletes. With upgraded facilities and strong community support, SPS athletics continues to build a culture of teamwork, resilience, and pride.
Clubs
At Sterling Public Schools, there’s something for everyone! With over 25 active clubs and organizations, students can explore interests in leadership, service, creativity, competition, and community involvement. Whether joining National Honor Society, FFA, Key Club, Student Council, Scholastic Bowl, or Key Club, students develop leadership, teamwork, and real-world skills that prepare them for success beyond graduation. Many of our clubs compete and earn recognition at state and national levels, while others provide meaningful ways to connect, serve, and grow together as a school community.
Fine Arts
Sterling Public Schools provides students with exceptional opportunities to explore and develop their artistic talents. From elementary art projects that spark imagination to high school programs that prepare students for college and beyond, creativity thrives at every level. Our visual arts students work with diverse materials and techniques — from ceramics and digital design to large-scale installations and stage sets. Sterling’s award-winning music programs, including band, choir, and orchestra, have been recognized for excellence and community engagement, earning the district the prestigious “Best Communities for Music Education” designation multiple years in a row. Performances such as the fall musical, marching band shows, and community concerts showcase the passion and dedication of our talented students and staff. Many of our graduates have gone on to pursue careers in the arts, music, and performance fields.
Athletics
Sterling Public Schools has a proud tradition of athletic excellence. From conference championships to state appearances, our Golden Warriors continue to make their mark across a wide range of sports. Sterling consistently ranks among the top athletic programs in our region, and our student-athletes are recognized not only for their performance on the field but also for their success in the classroom as Scholar Athletes. With upgraded facilities and strong community support, SPS athletics continues to build a culture of teamwork, resilience, and pride.