Leo High School Choir Honored by Chicago City Council

August 27, 2025 - CHICAGO, IL - In a special ceremony today, the Chicago City Council formally recognized the Leo High School boys’ choir for their inspiring quarterfinal performance on “America’s Got Talent” and for the positive visibility they have brought to the Auburn Gresham neighborhood.

The resolution, introduced by Alderman Michelle Harris (8th Ward), lauded the 18-member ensemble-known as the Leo Choir Boys-for demonstrating exceptional talent, discipline, and community spirit on one of national television’s largest stages. Council chambers erupted in applause as choir director Tamara Hill and several student representatives accepted the proclamation.

“Today we honor not just the phenomenal voices of these young men, but the power of art to uplift our city’s children and change the narrative about Chicago’s South Side,” Alderman Harris stated. “The Leo Choir Boys have shown that through dedication and brotherhood, our students can achieve greatness and inspire millions.”

Principal Shaka Rawls, who accompanied the ensemble to Los Angeles for the AGT quarterfinals on August 26, addressed the Council: “These young men carried our school’s motto-Facta Non Verba, Deeds Not Words-with them to that stage. Their performance was a testament to the strength of our community and the transformative impact of education and the arts.”

In addition to the City Council honor, students and faculty hosted a watch party yesterday evening at the Leo High School auditorium, where supporters gathered to view the choir’s live AGT broadcast. Online voting opened at 7 p.m. CST, and the choir encouraged fans to cast their votes in hopes of advancing to the semifinals.

The City Council’s proclamation underscores the school’s ongoing commitment to academic excellence and cultural enrichment, marking a significant milestone in Leo High School’s 99-year history. The resolution congratulates the choir for not only representing Leo High School with distinction but also for shining a spotlight on Auburn Gresham and the broader South Side community.