Learning Comes Full Circle
This fall, we kicked off our 90th anniversary celebration of Lake Forest Community High School, a milestone that reminds us that learning is only something that happens during our school years, but a journey that propels us through every stage of life. In this issue of Insight, we feature the voices of our learners. From the excitement of our kindergarteners starting school, to the accomplishments of our seniors preparing to graduate, to the reflections of LFHS alumni across the decades who returned during Homecoming Weekend with pride, each moment connects us to one another.
The education that begins in our schools never truly ends. It grows with our students, sparks their possibilities, and strengthens our community across generations. As we continue this journey together in the 2025–26 school year, we do so with shared purpose.Guided by our Board of Education, our Portrait of a Learner vision, and our strategic plan, we remain grounded in the commitment to excellence and wellbeing that defines the communities we serve.
With gratitude,
Matthew L. Montgomery, Ph.D. Superintendent of Schools, Districts 67 and 115
BIG IDEAS FROM KINDERGARTEN
We asked students about their Kindergarten experiences this fall…
“The best thing about being in Kindergarten is being with my friends and teachers because they are good people.”
—ANDERS H., SHERIDAN ELEMENTARY SCHOOL
“My favorite thing about school is art. I made a tree with a bird.”
—GEORGE O., CHEROKEE ELEMENTARY SCHOOL
And where they might be later this year or beyond…
“I can sit on the monkey bars with no hands — or one hand! I could teach the big kids that. Maybe they could teach me how to go on the monkey bars, but on the top.”
—AUDREY O., SHERIDAN ELEMENTARY SCHOOL
“One time, I tried to count to 500 — and it took the whole night.”
—TOMMY I., EVERETT ELEMENTARY SCHOOL
“I can ride my bike with no training wheels, and when I’m older, I’ll learn to drive a green or pink car.”
—ELLE B., CHEROKEE ELEMENTARY SCHOOL
“You never stop learning because my mom doesn’t know everything in the world. My dad doesn’t know everything in the world.”
—ROSE B., EVERETT ELEMENTARY SCHOOL
A Homecoming to Remember
This fall, Lake Forest Community High School marked its 90th anniversary with a month of events honoring nine decades of excellence. The festivities began on September 4 with the 90th Anniversary Community Leaders Reception at the History Center of Lake Forest–Lake Bluff, where local leaders reflected on the school’s impact. Gardening 2 Grow generously donated floral arrangements for the evening.
Homecoming week featured car decorating at West Campus, a movie night under the stars, and a spirited pep rally leading up to the Scouts’ big game. Alumni reunited at East Campus to tour building
improvements, share memories, and attend a lecture on the school’s architecture by Paul Bergmann of the Lake Forest Preservation Foundation, who noted that the building—even during its renovation—“is designed to show the sophistication of the community and the aspiration of the parents.”
The celebration culminated in a Community Parking Lot Party, and students enjoyed the Garden Partythemed dance. The legacy of Lake Forest Community High School continues to grow, rooted in tradition, fueled by community, and guided by the pride that connects every Scout, past and present.
DISTRICT 67 + 115
All Schools Rated Exemplary by Illinois State Board of Education
JOURNEY TO GROWTH
In 2023, District 67 adopted an ambitious strategic plan aimed at cultivating excellence in academics, community building, and the transformative and equitable use of resources. Just two years later, our 2025 Illinois State Report Card results show measureable progress. D67 OUR
All 5 District 67 schools named Exemplary, the highest state designation
84% of students meeting or exceeding state standards in ELA
79.6% meeting or exceeding state standards in Math
BEYOND THE SCORES
Behind the ratings are classrooms where learning feels alive.
“In addition to using data to guide instruction, our teachers pair high expectations with creativity making learning personal and meaningful, and that’s showing up in our students’ success,” said Dr. Renée Fitzsimmons, Assistant Superintendent of Teaching, Learning, and Accountability.
Students are curious, capable learners engaged by the evidencebased Amplify English Language Arts curriculum, which has accelerated growth through instruction that builds confidence and comprehension in our young readers and writers. In math, handson problem solving and real-world applications challenge students to think critically and communicate their reasoning. Learning in District 67 is rigorous, engaging, and designed to develop skills that extend well beyond test scores.
D115 SCORES AND SO MUCH MORE
Excellence is both a standard and a starting point, and at Lake Forest Community High School, the strategic plan adopted in 2023 set its sights on ensuring every graduate leaves ready for what’s next. LFHS students and staff are demonstrating measurable progress.
*ISBE implemented
BEYOND THE REPORT CARD
Behind every score is a student discovering their purpose and teachers helping them get there.
“Our students’ achievements reflect not only their hard work, but also the teachers who guide them to think critically, engage deeply, and dream big,” said Dr. Erin Lenart, Assistant Superintendent and Principal of Lake Forest Community High School District 115.
At LFHS, learning extends far beyond tests and transcripts. Nearly 92% of students participate in one or more of the school’s 98 student activity and athletic opportunities, reflecting a culture of connection and engagement that builds leadership and lifelong skills.
Whether designing research projects, leading service initiatives, or exploring courses that prepare them for future careers and life after graduation, LFHS students are deeply involved in shaping their own learning journey.
Broadening
and
PRESIDENTS’ PERSPECTIVE
“As our vision, the Portrait of a Learner builds upon our commitment to academic excellence with a set of durable skills that reflect our vision for every student. Developed together with our community, the Portrait defines the competencies that will help our children thrive in an ever-changing world, prepared to lead, adapt, and grow.”
MARK REMUS
D67 BOARD PRESIDENT
“Every partnership, whether through a local organization, neighbor, or volunteer, strengthens our schools and helps our students develop the skills and character they’ll carry for life. Education is a collective effort, and it’s through authentic collaboration with our parent leader groups and others in our community that our Portrait of a Learner is becoming the foundational reality for every student.”
JOHN NOBLE
D115 BOARD PRESIDENT
Portrait of a Learner COM MUNICATION CONFIDENCE
“The LFHS Boosters promote and support athletic success, spirit and sportsmanship by championing confidence in our Scout athletes. Confidence is displaying strong commitment to others in our community, embodying highlevel competence, communicating with clarity and demonstrating the courage to achieve. Go Scouts!“
NICOLE ELLIOTT, PRESIDENT LFHS BOOSTERS
“Whether it be singing or delivering monologues onstage, setting the scene for the audience by creative and skillful use of lighting and sound effects, or using choreography and dance to convey a message, LFHS Theater students are learning the skills to communicate effectively and connect with their audiences.”
TARA STADOLNIK, PRESIDENT PALS (PRODUCERS-AT-LARGE)
“You may know the LFHS APT as the parent energy behind the Talent Show, Prom, and the Spring Wellness Walk. Beyond these much-loved student traditions, our monthly meetings bring teachers, parents and administrators together to think critically and share feedback in a productive, solutionfocused manner on relevant, timely school topics.”
BETSY MILLER, PRESIDENT LFHS ASSOCIATION OF PARENTS & TEACHERS
CRITICAL THINKING
“Critical Thinking really connects with what we do in District 67 APT. As a team, we try to stay open-minded, actively listen to everyone’s perspective, and make thoughtful, informed decisions that shape our shared future. Our schools thrive when we all think carefully, listen openly, and work together respectfully.”
SANDI FOTOPOULOS, PRESIDENT DISTRICT 67 ASSOCIATION OF PARENTS & TEACHERS
“Students in the LFHS Music program show real communication skills that go beyond language and culture through how they listen and perform. They tune into each other, their Music Directors, and the subtle details in the music to understand meaning and emotion that words can’t always capture.”
KAVITA SWAMINATHAN, PRESIDENT APPLAUSE
COM MUNICATION ADAPTABILITY
“The simple act of gardening teaches students about adaptability by constantly challenging them to cope with unpredictable outcomes through problem solving until they reach desired conditions. As an organization, we also work to create engaging spaces and authentic educational opportunities for students.”
MARY GALEA, PRESIDENT GARDENING 2 GROW
CITIZENSHIP
“Empathy guides the Spirit of 67 Foundation in understanding and addressing the diverse needs of students, teachers, and schools.
The Spirit funds grants that ensure every student has equal access to a broad range of educational opportunities in District 67.”
GAIL MILLER BISHER, PRESIDENT SPIRIT OF 67
”Since 2002, the Lake Forest high School Foundation has awarded more than $3 million in grants to enrich the LFHS experience, inspire students to put civic and social responsibility into action through real-world problem solving supported by professional mentors in the LFHS Business Incubator Pitch Night program, and engage a vibrant network of graduates strengthening their local and global communities through the LFHS Alumni Association.”
CARLA OJHA, PRESIDENT LFHS FOUNDATION
Teachers Ref lect on Dynamic and Engaging Classrooms
In District 67, even the most experienced and beloved teachers never stop learning. This fall, teachers across the district are participating in a professional learning series designed to spark new collaboration about how students connect, engage, and grow.
“After 26 years in the classroom, learning new strategies keeps things fresh for my students—and for me. There’s always a new way to reach kids and make them feel part of something bigger.”
KRISTIN HAHN, 8TH-GRADE ENGLISH TEACHER
Teachers describe the shift as more than a new approach. It’s a mindset that blends academic rigor with connection and belonging, two key pillars of the district’s strategic plan.
This focus on professional learning also ties directly to the district’s Portrait of a Learner. Teachers are now modeling the same competencies as they learn alongside one another and their students.
“This is the beginning of something that will ripple through every school,” said Dr. Andrew Fenton, Director of Teaching and Learning. “This year’s cohort was eager to pilot these approaches and bring what they’ve learned back to their grade-level and content teams. That’s how change takes hold — teacher to teacher, classroom to classroom.”
For Fenton, this builds upon the momentum of student growth districtwide. Each school’s professional learning goals connect directly to the district’s strategic plan, each building’s school improvement plans, and the Portrait of a Learner. It’s a system designed to sustain real success.
“We already have incredibly talented educators. Now we’re giving them the time, tools, and space to lead this next phase of growth, one that builds on our academic progress and deepens the culture of belonging across all schools.”
DR. ANDREW FENTON, DIRECTOR OF TEACHING AND LEARNING
Teachers say the impact is already visible as they test and measure their new strategies in the classroom.
“My students are more focused and engaged, and they don’t even realize how much they’re learning while they’re having fun,” said Lauren Swiatly, 4thgrade teacher at Everett Elementary School.
In District 67, growth isn’t just for students; it’s woven into the fabric of teaching itself. Each lesson, each collaboration, and each new idea reminds us that learning never stops.
NEW DPM CAFETERIA BRINGS STUDENTS TOGETHER
This fall, Deer Path Middle School opened the doors to its newly renovated cafeteria, a bright, modern, and student-centered space designed for connection. Completed on time and on budget, the renovation is a tangible example of the district’s ongoing promise to use resources in ways that benefit all learners.
“This project represents the kind of forward-thinking investment our strategic plan calls for,” said Dr. Michelle Shinn, Principal of Deer Path Middle School East. “We’ve created a shared space with our students’ input that nourishes both body and community.”
The new space combines form and function, featuring flexible seating provided by a generous grant from the Spirit of 67 Foundation, along with natural light and an efficient flow that makes lunchtime smoother and more social. It’s a space built not just to serve meals, but also to serve students.
SPIRIT OF 67 GRANTS BRING LEARNING TO LIFE
CHEROKEE
Pottery Wheel for the Art Room
A new pottery wheel enriches Cherokee’s art curriculum, offering students a chance to create, shape, and see their work come to life.
EVERETT
Kindergarten Book Bags
Take-home literacy kits for new readers provide books and activities that foster early reading joy and family connection.
SHERIDAN
DISTRICTWIDE
Gardening 2 Grow: Cultivating Curiosity
Library Refresh & Museum Partnership
New mobile bookcases and access to real Field Museum artifacts transform Sheridan’s library into a flexible hub for exploration.
CURTAIN UP! DEER PATH STUDENTS TAKE CENTER STAGE
The Deer Path Middle School Performing Arts Program invites families and community members to experience the magic of student performances all year long.
Hands-on garden lessons bring wellness and environmental learning to all four schools, nurturing growth in every sense. SEP 24, 2026 SAVE THE DATE
DEC 4
DEC 17
JAN 27
Electrify
FEB 19
FEB 26-27
MAY 6 MAY 13
MAY 14
DPM
Bandstravaganza
Students and Teachers Ref lect on LFHS Modernized Learning Spaces
This fall, Lake Forest Community High School students returned to something extraordinary — new Robotics and Architecture and Engineering labs, plus Special Education and World Language classrooms and offices designed to enhance learning and collaboration. The modernized spaces mark another milestone in the construction projects made possible for our students by the community-supported 2023 referendum.
From the moment students stepped inside the new Robotics Lab, their reactions said it all.
”I was flabbergasted. It’s not just bigger, it’s smarter. We have more machines, more storage, and more ways to create.”
–SUFYAN H., CLASS OF 2026
A new display also showcases student work, catching the attention of students and their peers. “It motivates students to do their best work,” added Robotics teacher Darren Barndt. “With more space and storage, they can work without interruption and focus on their own projects.”
In Special Education, small changes make a big impact. Flexible seating, adjustable lighting, and a breakout space that students named The Vault give
SCOUT UP, ID ON!
every learner room to grow. Teachers Katie Secker and Donna Lovitsch noted, “it’s a calm, peaceful space for learning and the new furniture on wheels gives us flexibility to arrange for any learning style.”
Senior Maria A. was thrilled when she saw the space for the first time. “I love the new room!” she said. For her, it’s more than a new room, it’s added connection and opportunity, “Last year we had a Thanksgiving feast and we didn’t have enough space, now we can have one big table for everyone. Our new kitchen is much bigger, too, and we can learn how to cook so people can get ready to go to college.”
Across campus, the new World Language classrooms bring clarity and connection. “You look forward to going to class now,” said sophomore Marcus D. His classmate Sienna M., also a sophomore, added, “Last year the projector blocked the board and now we can see everything all the time.”
Whether in Robotics or French, each redesigned space reflects a shared purpose: to inspire curiosity, collaboration, and confidence.
“We have the tools and the room to create. It feels like our ideas have space to grow.”
–GRACE R., CLASS OF 2027
With construction underway and more visitors entering our building, an updated, visible ID requirement makes it easy to identify who is authorized to be on campus. At the same time, the lanyards are a reminder that being an LFHS Scout means taking pride in keeping one another safe. “This initiative is about more than safety,” said Chuck Walsh, Director of Safety and Security. “It’s about building a culture where students feel known, recognized, and part of the Scout family.”
LFHS LEADS COLLABORATIVE EFFORT TO DEFINE RESPONSIBLE AI USE
Lake Forest Community High School students are already thinking critically about how artificial intelligence fits into their learning. “AI can be a great study tool if you use it to help you understand, not just to get the answer,” said senior and class president Josie I. Vice president Ethan F. agreed, adding that AI “explains things faster than a Google search, but students still have to do the thinking.”
To balance innovation with responsibility, the District 115 Instructional Council and Technology Committee are developing a framework that sets clear, consistent expectations for how these tools are used in classrooms. The goal is to give teachers flexibility to enhance their curriculum while helping students learn to use new technology thoughtfully and effectively. Led by staff and informed by student input, the collaborative effort is expanding to include parent/guardian perspectives through the new District 115 Technology Working Group.
ALUMNI VISITS
Full Circle: From LFHS to Broadway
Tony Award–winning Lake Forest Community High School alumnus Marco Paguia (Class of ’95) was welcomed back to the spotlight by Producers-atLarge (PALS) to share his Broadway journey with LFHS theater and music students.
A pianist, arranger, and conductor with numerous Broadway credits, including the acclaimed Buena Vista Social Club, Paguia reflected on the teachers, mentors, and experiences at LFHS that shaped his path.
“Theater is a collaborative, community-building thing,” he told students. “Different backgrounds, skills, and perspectives all work toward the same goal.”
Paguia recalled his days in the pep band, jazz band, and the Madrigals. “Learning an instrument is like learning a language,” he said. “It connects you to others in a way that words can’t.”
For current students, his visit was more than a master class; it was a reminder that creativity, discipline, and collaboration learned in high school can take you anywhere.
IT’S SHOWTIME! SCOUTS STEP INTO THE SPOTLIGHT
Join the Lake Forest Community High School Performing Arts Program for an inspiring season of live student performances.
UPCOMING PERFORMANCES
SPRING LUNCHEON
NOV 20-22
DEC 7
JAN 27
FEB 5-7
MAR 5
MAR 11
MAR 12
APR 16-18
MAY 1
MAY 19
MAY 27
Frosh/Soph Play: Inherit the Wind
Instrumental Concert / Spaghetti Dinner/Choral Concert
Electrify Your Strings / Mark Wood Orchestra Festival
Winter Play: The Importance of Being Earnest
Band Concert
Choir Concert
Orchestra Concert
Spring Musical: The Drowsy Chaperone
Choir Showcase
AP Art Show
Band Concert
Orchestra Concert
EVERETT SENSORY GARDEN
Everett Elementary recently celebrated the ribbon cutting of its renewed outdoor space. Made possible by the Spirit of 67 Foundation, Gardening 2 Grow, and Mariani Landscape, the garden was created to enhance outdoor learning and support emotional well-being for students and staff.
WALL
OF EXCELLENCE
The 2025 Wall of Excellence dedication honored founder Brian Vandenberg and celebrated the next generation of Scouts, including senior honorees Maeve Farrell, Marty Hippel, Lulu Keil, and Danny Van Camp. Their achievements in athletics, leadership, and the arts carry forward Brian’s legacy of excellence, pride, and community.
Thanksgiving Break – No School
BOOK TALK: DREAM SCHOOL
Lake Forest Schools Superintendent Dr. Matthew Montgomery, in partnership with the Family Action Network (FAN), hosted a book talk with author Jeff Selingo, sharing insights from his newest book on guiding families through the college selection journey.
KEY SCHOOL DATES
District 67 Board of Education Meeting
Winter Break – No School
Virtual Kindergarten Information Night
Martin Luther King Jr. Holiday – No School
Spirit of 67 Foundation Grant Submission Deadline
LFHS 101 for Parents/Guardians of Incoming 9th Graders (LFHS West Campus)
Tri-District Institute Day – No School
Presidents’ Day – No School
District 67 and 115 Joint Board President and Superintendent Community Coffee (Lake Bluff Public Safety Building)
District 67 Board of Education Meeting
Parent-Teacher Conferences – Full Day of School
Parent-Teacher Conferences – No Student Attendance
District 67 Board of Education Meeting
Spring Break – No School
Teacher In-Service Day – No Student Attendance
Spirit of 67 Foundation Grant Week
District 67 and 115 Joint Board President and Superintendent Community Coffee (Gorton Center)
District 67 Board of Education Meeting
Embedded Emergency Day - No School (Unless Needed)
District 67 Preschool and CH/EV/SH Family Sharing Night
District 67 Board of Education Meeting
School Improvement Day – 1/2 Day Student Attendance (Morning)
Memorial Day – No School
DPM Graduation (LFHS West Fieldhouse)
Last Day of School – 1/2 Day Student Attendance (Morning)
District 67 Board of Education Meeting
GREAT FULL MARKET
For the fifth annual Great Full Market, the Lake Forest Schools partnered with District 65, our parent groups, and Quest Food Management Services to pack and deliver fresh produce and pantry staples for the families of Beacon Place in Waukegan. This ongoing tradition reflects our community’s commitment to giving back by supporting our neighbors in need.
Thanksgiving Break – No School
District 115 Board of Education Meeting
Winter Break – No School
First Semester Final Exams
Teacher Work Day – No Student Attendance
Martin Luther King Jr. Holiday – No School
Scout Experience for Incoming 9th Graders (LFHS East Campus)
LFHS Foundation Grant Application Deadline
Winter Formal
District 115 Board of Education Meeting
LFHS 101 for Parents/Guardians of Incoming 9th Graders (LFHS West Campus)
Tri-District Institute Day – No School
Presidents’ Day – No School
District 67 and 115 Joint Board President and Superintendent Community Coffee (Lake Bluff Public Safety Building)
APT Talent Show (RMA)
District 115 Board of Education Meeting
LFHS Foundation Grant Day
Spring Break – No School
Teacher In-Service Day – No Student Attendance
District 115 Board of Education Meeting
Testing Day – No Attendance for Seniors
District 67 and 115 Joint Board President and Superintendent Community Coffee (Gorton Center)
Embedded Emergency Day - No School (Unless Needed) AP Tests District 115 Board of Education Meeting
Walk
Foundation Pitch Night (RMA)
Memorial Day – No School
Seniors’ Last Day
District 115 Board of Education Meeting
Second Semester Final Exams
Graduation (Front Lawn)