Your go-to guide for all the latest local events in the weeks ahead
6 cat's can-doers
Variety of leadership styles lifts girls' lacrosse team at Lake Forest High School
8 north shore sports
North Shore Country Day soccer player Kate Connolly's all-time favorite athlete doesn't play soccer
PRIVATE SCHOOLS SECTION
11 the ai revolution
North Shore private schools tackle the rising popularity of artificial intelligence
LIFESTYLE & ARTS
28 #hashtag
Former debutante Courtney Grimes is getting ready to co-chair next month’s “Summer Soiree, La Dolce Vita” gala
30 social life
The Griffin Museum of Science and Industry raised more than $700,000 with its Black Creativity Gala
32 north shore foodie
Learn to make an authentic Irish Barmbrack cake with this recipe
33 weekend cocktail
Put this delicious Negroni on your Easter brunch menu
34 man about film
Tom Cruise’s Mission: Impossible — The Final Reckoning action film gets a less than thrilling review
36 weekend poem
Titled “The Witness Beneath the Riven Sky,” this poem gives much to contemplate this Easter weekend
LAST BUT NOT LEAST
38 sunday breakfast
Highland Park's Aimee Laberge has a French connection---and it has nothing to do with a certain movie
S P R I N G R E F R E S H
NORTH SHORE DOINGS
EDITED BY CHEYANNE LENCIONI THE NORTH SHORE WEEKEND
NOW THROUGH APRIL 24
PATTERNS AND POEMS IN NATURE
WHERE: North Shore Senior Center
Chicago Alliance of Visual Arts is hosting a joint exhibition with the North Shore Senior Center featuring artists Kathleen Haslwanter, Christine George, Maryse Richards, and Karen Beatty. From 9 a.m. to 5 p.m., this show is a great way to celebrate spring and explore the beauty of patterns in art. wearecava.org
NOW THROUGH APRIL 26
WINTER MARKET
WHERE: Elawa Farm Elawa Farm hosts its Winter Market every Friday and Saturday from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. The market highlights locally sourced produce and eggs from Elawa’s farm partners, along with specialty pantry items from small businesses. elawafarm.org
NOW THROUGH APRIL 28
CONCEPTUAL COMPOSITIONS
WHERE: got?art contemporary studio Got?art contemporary studio in Winnetka is featuring a new exhibit that prioritizes form, color, and texture over representational or realistic depictions— featuring work by Piotr Antonow, Irena Siwek, and Voytek. gotartstudio.com
NOW THROUGH APRIL 30
PRETERNATURAL
WHERE: Vivid Art Gallery Stop into Winnetka’s Vivid Art Gallery to see Chicago artist Allison Svoboda's work now through the rest of the month. Svoboda's newest exhibit is defined by depictions of
expansive vistas, shifting skyscapes, and ephemeral atmospheric conditions that evoke the remembrance of a moment, combining observation with imagination. vividartgallery.net
NOW THROUGH MAY 18
THE BOOK OF GRACE
WHERE: Steppenwolf Ensemble Theater Steppenwolf Theater Company’s 49th season continues with the Chicago premiere of Suzan-Lori Parks’ The Book of Grace—an incendiary family portrait from the Pulitzer Prizewinning writer of Topdog/ Underdog. Witness this startling reminder that the search for common ground can be a brutal journey for those on every side of the divide. steppenwolf.org
NOW THROUGH MAY 25
LATER IMPRESSIONS
WHERE: Evanston Art Center
Chicago Alliance of Visual Arts presents their Later Impressions exhibition. Step into a world where wisdom meets creativity. This collection unveils the depths of expression achieved through years of experience, reflection, and growth. The pieces range from: paintings, photography, and prints to evocative sculptures. A learning symposium will be held on the last day of the exhibit; registration is required. wearecava.org
NOW THROUGH MAY 29
SPRING BIRD WALK
WHERE: Chicago Botanic Garden
From 8 a.m. to 9:30 a.m. every Thursday and Saturday through May 29, explore the best spots for locating late-winter bird residents and the early migrants of spring at the Chi-
cago Botanic Garden. Each walk is approximately one to two hours long. Dress for the weather; binoculars and a field guide are encouraged. Participants will meet at the Visitor’s Center. The price for this program is $24 for members and $30 for nonmembers. chicagobotanic.org
APRIL 19
CHOCOLATE BUNNY
ACRYLIC PAINTING
TUTORIAL
WHERE: Highwood Library
From 1:30 p.m. to 3 p.m., join a painting tutorial at Highwood Library where kids will learn how to paint a chocolate Easter bunny. With easy-to-follow instructions, little artists will create their own masterpiece while having fun using colors and creative techniques. highwoodlibrary.org
APRIL 19
KIDS BOOK SALE
WHERE: Wilmette Public Library
Come to the Wilmette Public Library auditorium for a special, one-day children’s book sale from 9:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. All books are priced from 50 cents to $1. Proceeds benefit libraries damaged and destroyed by the California wildfires earlier this year. wilmettelibrary.info
APRIL 24
KGC’S ANNUAL SPRING LUNCHEON
WHERE: Glen View Club Kenilworth Garden Club’s (KGC) will hold its annual luncheon at Glen View Club. This year’s guest speaker is Linda Jane Holden, the renowned author who brought the story of Bunny Mellon, one of the nation's premier garden designers, to life. Holden’s talk will be accompanied by a seasonally-inspired seated lunch. Those attending will have the opportunity to
purchase a selection of the author’s books and KGCdesigned and arranged topiaries. kenilworthgardenclub.com
APRIL 24
WINGS BLOSSOM FASHION SHOW
WHERE: 21c Museum Hotel, Chicago
WINGS will host its second annual BLOSSOM fashion show from 6 p.m. to 9 p.m. at the 21c Museum Hotel in Chicago. The fundraiser supports programs that allow the nonprofit to continue eliminating the stigma surrounding domestic violence and celebrate victors who have blossomed. Hosted by Nigel Barker, the event features hors d’oeuvres, an open bar, raffle, and a L’Oréal swag bag. Proceeds will be used to launch new domestic violence programming and critical support services in the North Shore and beyond. wingsprogram.com
APRIL 24
RUNNING WITH COFFEE
WHERE: Woman’s Club of Wilmette
Eileen Byrne Richards proudly presents a onewoman comedy show about caregiving, memory loss, and mental health. The doors open at 6:30 p.m. at the Woman’s Club of Wilmette and the show begins at 7 p.m. Tickets are on sale now and all proceeds go to the Woman’s Club Restoration fund. womansclubofwilmette.org
APRIL 24 & MAY 11
SIT & KNIT
WHERE: Northfield Public Library
Spend the afternoon with fellow knitters in the Community Room at Northfield Public Library. From 3 p.m. to 5:30 p.m. adults of all levels of experience are welcome. Basic supplies will be provided and library
staff will be present to assist. Registration is required. wnpld.org
APRIL 26 TO MAY 25
LAKE FOREST SHOWHOUSE AND GARDENS
WHERE: Pembroke Lodge
The Lake Forest Chapter of the Infant Welfare Society of Chicago will transform a Georgian-style Lake Forest estate, designed in 1895 by architect Henry Ives Cobb, for the 2025 Lake Forest Showhouse & Gardens. Featured in the 1935 redesign of the majestic 30-room home is a pool house and pool designed by David Adler, a tennis court with a warming hut, and a reflecting pond with English walled gardens. More than 45 leading landscapers and interior designers will reimagine the 15,000-square-foot mansion and its 3.5 acre grounds. Tickets are $50 per person. lakeforestshowhouse.com
APRIL 26
HOLLYWOOD IN GLENCOE TRIVIA NIGHT
WHERE: Glencoe Union Church
Back by popular demand, the Glencoe Historical Society (GHS) is once
again hosting Hollywood in Glencoe Trivia Night with trivia based on movies filmed on the Chicago North Shore—including such classics as Risky Business, Home Alone, The Breakfast Club, and many more. The event will start at 6:30 p.m. and will include trivia, food, and drinks. Create your trivia team of eight or allow GHS to create one for you. Costumes are welcome! Tickets are $100 per person. glencoehistory.org
APRIL 28 & MAY 4 TO JOY!
WHERE: Chicago and Evanston
The Orion Ensemble is concluding its 32nd season with a concert series featuring two important works by Richard Strauss and Beethoven. Performances will take place at 7:30 p.m. at PianoForte Studios in Chicago on April 28 and at 7:30 p.m. at Nichols Concert Hall in Evanston on May 4. The Chicago performance will also be available for livestream. orionensemble.org
To submit your event for consideration, please email events@nsweekend.com.
Later Impressions
CAT’S CAN-DOERS
Lake Forest High School girls’ lacrosse coach Cat Catanzaro guides a potent blend of young and old Scouts.
BY BILL MCLEAN THE NORTH SHORE WEEKEND
Seven freshmen made the Lake Forest High School (LFHS) girls’ lacrosse varsity team this spring.
That’s nearly 30 percent of Scouts coach Cat Catanzaro’s squad of 24 players. Or a rather large contingent of recent eighth-graders.
Four senior captains welcomed them with open arms—and receptive lax sticks.
“They remind us of us three years ago,” says LFHS senior captain and fourth-year varsity middie Maeve Farrell, standing near fellow senior captains Megan Rocklein, Lulu Keil, and Cate Lee before the start of a recent home game versus St. Ignatius College Prep (SICP).
“Our captains are like older sisters to us,” notes LFHS freshman middie Sarah Griffin, speaking for fellow rookies Bridget Dacy, Gabi Masson, Gracie Pruett, Catie Ward, Haley Helfrich, and Caroline Borega.
Catanzaro’s decision to pack her roster with a heap of Class of 2028 student-athletes had nothing to do with a desperate move to fill out her 2025 edition and everything to do with a duty to fortify the parent club of her highly successful program with the best available lacrosse players.
LFHS went 19-7 and finished fourth at the Illinois High School Association (IHSA) girls’ lacrosse state tournament last spring. And it looks like the Scouts—sporting a 5-1 record through April 12—have the talent and drive to make another run to the Final Four in early June.
“What excites me the most is knowing our freshmen will get opportunities all year long to learn from seniors who had made the varsity
Dacy made an immediate impact in the season-opener March 18 at Hinsdale Central High School (HCHS), scoring the game’s first goal and adding two more in a 14-9 loss. Ward tallied a pair of goals, and Griffin—blessed with sprinter’s speed—contributed a goal against the perennially strong Red Devils.
“It’s an honor to play varsity lacrosse for Lake Forest High School,” says Keil, who has hosted gatherings for the entire varsity at her home. “Our freshmen on varsity realize that—which is important. Each time they start or enter a game, they play hard, knowing it’s a chance many don’t get at that age. We’re a deep team this year, with a lot of that having to do with our freshmen.”
Each captain has a leadership style unlike the other three, giving each of the freshmen four options should she seek either advice or a listening ear.
Catanzaro, on University of Virginia-bound Rocklein:
“Our leader by example, with all her skills— she’s ridiculously talented—her passion for the sport, and her willingness to put the team first. She suffered a dislocated shoulder in our semifinal at state last year but insisted on playing in the third-place game (where she had one goal and three assists). She wound up undergoing labrum surgery. That decision to play hurt was Megan’s way of saying to her teammates, ‘Hey, I care deeply about the team, not about me.’”
Catanzaro, on Farrell:
“She’s our assertive and demanding captain, loud at times. a hammer. Every successful team needs a Maeve Farrell on it.”
Catanzaro, on Lee:
“Cate is a quiet leader, reassuring, approachable, and encouraging. She’s the one who likes to stay to her teammates, ‘You’ve got this,’ in games and at practices. Our practices aren’t easy.”
Catanzaro, on Keil:
“Our rah-rah captain is Lulu. If you’re looking for someone to provide a ‘Let’s go!’ she’ll yell it.”
when they were freshmen,” says Catanzaro, whose fifth fourth-year varsity senior this spring is defender Brooke Bolton. “Our seniors will bring them along and inspire them, all while helping our staff develop another strong core of players for years to come.
“Our freshmen,” she continues, “are excited to be part of not only the varsity but a part of a close-knit group that likes to do things together off the field.”
Phoebe Silver plays attack for the Scouts. She’s neither a senior nor a freshman. But the junior, who qualified for the IHSA Class 2A state tennis tournament in doubles last fall, appreciates the roles that the range of personalities have played in unifying the team.
“It happened quickly, our team meshing easily,” says Silver, who poured in a team-high four goals to go with two assists in the Scouts’ 11-4 defeat of visiting St. Ignatius College Prep (SICP) on April 4. “Young and old, we’re together, due mostly to our strong senior leaders. We all like that we have all types of
ABOVE: Lake Forest High School senior lacrosse players Lulu Keil, Cate Lee, Maeve Farrell, and Megan Rocklein are serving as captains this spring.
LEFT: Lake Forest High School lacrosse players Gabi Masson, Sarah Griffin, Gracie Pruett, and Bridget Dacy are four of seven freshmen on the Scouts' varsity team this spring.
PHOTOGRAPHY BY MONICA KASS ROGERS
leaders.”
Rocklein delivered a team-high five assists and struck for a pair of goals against the Wolfpack of SICP; Griffin had three goals and junior goalkeeper Dakota Acello got the win in the
first game after LFHS’s loss to HCHS.
If you’re wondering what a Division I college women’s lacrosse player does in games, watch Rocklein, a 2024 AllAmerica selectee and a two-time First Team All-State honoree.
She’s fast and shift and savvy, as well as capable of blowing you away with her behind-the-back shots.
Catanzaro’s crew won its next four contests after downing SICP, culminating with a 14-1 rout of Rockwood Summit (Missouri) High School at Stevenson High School on April 12.
LFHS has an impressive goal differential of 78-34 after six games.
“Our team is fast, hard-nosed, highly skilled,” Catanzaro says. “But to me, the word that describes us the best is dynamic.”
Other members of the Scouts’ varsity include senior attack Lilly Walsh; the lone sophomore, attack Nina Loiacano; and juniors Lizzie Rieder (attack), Ellie Carter (attack), Claire Borega (defender), Reagan Brown (defender), Dylan Giertsen (defender). Lila McBean (middie), Sydney Keck (middie), and Evelyn Marshall (goalkeeper).
“Our four captains push us, encourage us, support us,” Masson says. “They want us to do our best.
“But they’re like that with everyone on the team, not just the freshmen.”
GROUND BALLS & FAST BREAKS: Catanzaro, on her breakdown of the Scouts’ 11-4 defeat of SICP’s Wolfpack on April 4: “We’re young and we’re impulsive. We made some mistakes tonight, but I’m confident we won’t make those a month and a half from now.” … Silver received the Scout Spear after being named Most Outstanding Player following the SICP game. … Rocklein, on Catanzaro: “She’s the most organized person I’ve ever met.” Added Lee: “We’re always well-prepared through film study of our next opponent.” … Griffin, on the 2025 Scouts: “We don’t back down, ever.”
Lake Forest High School senior middie Megan Rocklein, seen here in early-spring action, earned All-America girls' lacrosse honors last spring. PHOTOGRAPHY BY JOEL LERNER
NORTH SHORE SPORTS
BY BILL MCLEAN THE NORTH SHORE WEEKEND
PHOTOGRAPHY
BY
GEORGE PFOERTNER
Lake Forest High School (LFHS) senior co-captain Isabella Adams swats left-handed shots for the Scouts’ varsity badminton squad.
So does senior co-captain Julia Wright.
LFHS coach Nicole Frye paired them at No. 3 doubles in a dual meet with visiting Libertyville High School (LHS) on April 10.
At least one of the LHS opponents must have thought, during the warm-up session, “Uh-oh.”
“It’s jarring, seeing two lefties playing doubles together,” says Frye, a 2006 Willowbrook High School graduate who played No. 2 singles for the Warriors’ fourth-place state team in ’06.
Adams/Wright won 21-8, 21-14, but
Pair of southpaws—senior co-captains Isabella Adams and Julia Wright— pace Lake Forest
High School’s badminton team.
LEFTIES ARE ALL RIGHT UNWAVERING
court.
“Both do a nice job of making adjustments in matches, and both read each opponent’s game well,” Frye says. “What I really like about them as competitors is their poise—how calm and collected they are, which is especially important in singles because you’re all alone out there.”
Adams advanced to the Illinois High School Association state badminton tournament in singles last spring, notching a firstround win and finishing with a 1-2 record at DeKalb High School in her first state appearance.
“It was so cool being there,” recalls Adams, who, like Wright, had given tennis a go several years ago before discovering the joys of whacking clears and executing wellplaced drop shots on a smaller court.
Adams’s strokes and smashes are quite fluid, even
elegant. She’s able to generate consistent power through her efficiency during points, particularly on overheads.
“Isabella’s drives are also very good because she’s strong,” Wright says.
Wright played the same Warren Township High School Blue Devil twice in a short time span earlier this month. The Scout lost both matches, but she received an unusual compliment following the second setback.
“She told me, ‘I hate your clears,’ but she said it in a nice way,” recounts Wright, whose side-to-side shotmaking made that Blue Devil earn practically every point.
Wright plans to major in Criminalistics and is leaning toward attending Bowling Green State University in Ohio.
She wants to be an FBI agent one day.
Adams intends to major in International Business and has been accepted by a university in France.
This spring’s other LFHS varsity badminton captain is senior Jordan Miles.
The
New Trier Township High School boys’ volleyball team’s plan of attack this spring has as much to do with the mind as it does with spikes.
Haak of her club relying on stability or consistency while serving, setting, digging, and pounding
“It was their idea to aim for staying even-keeled,” she adds. “Some of their other goals include ‘Be aggressive’ and ‘Be vocal.’ They’re all-in, committed to becoming better. They’re hardworking
They were 3-0 on April 9, after downing a strong Barrington High School (BHS) squad 21-12, 25-18 at New Trier.
Junior outside hitter Oliver Potterfield led the Trevians’ attack with nine kills, many of which either bruised or dented the main gym’s hardwood.
“Juice,” says the humble Potterfield. “That’s a word we like to say. We play with energy and we play together. But what we also do is spread the kills
“The same guy won’t lead our team in kills every match, and that’s a good
Henry Brandenberger, Joseph Jackier, James Hayek, and Keefer Baxter had at least three kills apiece in the BHS match. Baxter also elevated for a team-high three blocks, one more than Brandenberger’s total.
Jackier and Colin Kim—one of two sophomores (the other is Trevor Chung) on varsity—combined for 23 assists while sharing the setter duties, with Jackier lofting 12 of them.
New Trier senior defensive specialist Keenan Roderick had five digs in the nonconference victory.
“We’re scrappy,” Jackier says. “We just want it, want to win badly. We want to win points, win matches.”
New Trier defeated host Loyola Academy in two sets on April 3, avenging its loss to the Ramblers in an Illinois High School Association supersectional last spring.
“There was an emphasis on team bonding in the offseason,” Jackier adds. “We got together often, working out and putting in the effort to make sure
we were ready to go this spring.”
And they haven’t let up since, not even between matches.
“We practice like we play,” Roderick says.
In a word: hard.
“We've got some big hitters,” the 6-foot-5 Brandenberger says. “Scary hitters.”
Haak’s crew topped Warren Township High School (WTHS) in its season opener on April 1, but fell to the Blue Devils in a tournament held at WTHS on April 12.
New Trier won three of its other four matches at the two-day tourney.
“It’s a beautiful blend of personalities,” Haak, in her 23rd season at the helm, says of her 2025 edition. “The seniors are great friends and super personable. And they’re includers.”
New Trier (6-3 through April 12) visits Evanston Township High School for a 5:45 p.m. Central Suburban League South division match on April 21.
Isabella Adams
North Shore Country Day junior soccer midfielder
The North Shore Country Day (NSCD) girls’ soccer team got off to a 2-2-0 start this spring, defeating Nicholas Senn High School and Rochelle Zell Jewish High School (RZJHS) 4-0 and 1-0 respectively earlier this month.
Senior forward Daisy Stone netted the lone goal—in the 58th minute—off a pass from junior back Lexie Smith in the defeat of visiting RZJHS on April 9.
The Raiders, coached by NSCD Assistant Athletic Director Rebekah Kauffman (a former Stevenson High School goalkeeper), lost their Independent School League opener 7-0 to visiting University High School-Chicago (UHS-C) at Skokie Playfield in Winnetka on April 11.
UHS-C’s Maroons placed fourth at the Illinois High School Association Class A state tournament last spring.
An integral player for NSCD is returning varsity member Kate Connolly, a fast, smart, determined junior midfielder.
We caught up with her after last weekend’s match against UHS-C in sunny, pleasant (finally!) conditions.
You wear jersey No. 6. Any reason for that choice?
Not really. I’ve been wearing the number since my freshman season. There are six members in my family.
Any fond memories of your very first goal as a youth soccer player?
What I do remember is loving the sport since I started playing it at the age of 5.
What’s the hardest part of soccer?
Keeping a positive mindset when things get tough or appear down. Today (falling 7-0 to UHS-C) was tough, but it’s important to stay positive at all times. I think we all do our best to keep our heads up.
Your definition of North Shore Country Day girls’ soccer?
It has to do with a feeling. It’s such a joy to be around my teammates. They’re all fun people.
Have you added an element to your game or enhanced one of your soccer strengths since last season?
My footwork, I think. For most players, your game grows as you grow older.
Your favorite all-time athlete, in any sport? And why?
(Philadelphia Eagles running back and reigning Super Bowl champion) Saquon Barkley. He’s an insane athlete, super fast, super talented. I like the Eagles because I used to live near Philadelphia.
Who has been the most influential soccer figure in your life?
It’s not one person. I’d say the soccer program here at North Shore Country Day. The coaches and my teammates have all been great and supportive. Many have said to me, ‘You matter.’ Hearing that means a lot.
PREMIER PRIVATE SCHOOLS
THE AI REVOLUTION
Private schools on the North Shore are grappling with the emergence of artificial intelligence and its impact on learning for students.
BY MITCH HURST THE NORTH SHORE WEEKEND
It’s inescapable. Seems like every day in almost everything we do, we’re reminded that AI is about to change the world, revolutionize our lives, and possibly take our jobs. This rapid rise in the use of artificial intelligence (AI) is enough to make us feel like we’re living a century behind the times and are
perpetually trying to catch up.
So, imagine how school administrators and teachers feel when they’re in large part responsible for ensuring their students are prepared for the future. We recently spoke to North Shore-area private school officials about how they plan to incorporate AI into the learning process. The responses were nuanced, each aligned with their institution’s educational mission.
“About two years ago, as ChatGPT was arriving, the question was, ‘How are
we in schools going to brace for this?’” says Alex Sheridan, Associate Head of School for Advancement at Lake Forest Country Day School (LFCDS). “To answer that question, we were curious about early strategies being applied by other educators at every level.”
Conversations took place at a conference hosted at LFCDS and attended by schools from across the North Shore— public and private, early childhood programs, K-12 schools, and college. He remembers the overarching fears in the
room, thinking the robots were taking over. However, Sheridan also says his colleagues at LFCDS maintained a sense of focus as they prepared for the AI explosion.
“I don't know that AI changed our approach,” he continues. “We started by observing what was happening amongst our students and leveraged that knowledge to facilitate a broader dialogue that would enhance everyone's understanding.”
AI is also a live topic at The School of Faith, Hope & Charity (FHC) in Winnetka.
“The beauty of being an agile Catholic school,” says FHC Principal Tom Meagher, “is that I can make decisions with my
faculty and feedback from parents.”
He says FHC is “feet on the ground” in its educational approach, and its experience using technology tools like Chromebooks allows the school to look at emerging technologies such as AI more holistically.
“We’re certainly doing it at a cautious
says the challenge with introducing new technologies is determining how to do it without impeding the learning process, and in a way that’s aligned with St. Norbert's values.
“We recognize that AI is a valuable problem-solving tool in the real world,” Hoody says. “Yet we don’t want to expose students to new tools that divert them from learning. So, we are very judicious about the ways we introduce it to students across grades K through 8th grade.”
For her, AI implementation in schools is a leadership issue, which is a challenge because that landscape changes daily. The obvious initial concern for educators about AI—and most other new technologies—is how it can be misused, especially by students who are often more advanced technology users than adults.
“Honestly, it can feel a bit nebulous at times, but there are very valuable uses in the school setting. For example, using AI in middle school math has enabled our math teacher to assign students a problem set within a platform called Ediam,” adds Hoody. “As students complete their work, the AI math coach prompts them if they make a mistake and helps ensure they don't repeat the same mistake over and over. The AI coach doesn’t tell a student
ence with AI in different fields,” says Tom Flemma, Head of School at NSCD.
“The goal was to not only create policies of the use of AI in teaching and learning but also to try to understand the profound impact that it will have on the future of learning and work and even relationships so that our students are prepared to use these tools.”
The school’s approach has been to teach kids about AI—what it is and how it works—and how to use it generatively and responsibly.
“We have a core skills curriculum that is the core of our work and AI is fast becoming a part of it,” Flemma says. “The key for us is how to use AI as a genuine tool for deeper learning, to harness AI as a sort of ‘co-pilot’ of their learning, rather than a replacement or shortcut in learning.”
One of the adages about new technology and technology in general is that the kids are always ahead of the adults—parents, teachers, and administrators—when it comes to using it. While this poses challenges for educators, Kate Cicchelli, Head of School for Baker Demonstration School in Wilmette, says accepting that students are more proficient is one of the first steps schools can take as they incorporate tools like AI into their teaching.
rate,” Meagher explaiins. “We feel it’s very much a strength of ours as a traditional Catholic school to put pen to paper. The kids’ first essays are written on paper. Let’s keep that up but also be more thoughtful about the ways students use technology.”
At St. Norbert Catholic School in Northbrook, Principal Maggie Hoody
what the answer is but offers explicit instruction and provides personalized feedback to foster learning.”
Many private schools rely on collaborations with stakeholders to implement changes to curriculum or to incorporate new concepts into both their teaching philosophies and their operations.
“North Shore Country Day school (NSCD) created both a faculty working group and an ‘expert’ working group of parents and trustees who have experi -
“I feel like we’re learning with the kids and the kids outpace us,” Cicchelli says. “By the time we’ve got it mastered it’s already antiquated, and kids have moved to the next thing. I think a progressive education school like Baker is in an ideal position because we are so focused on realworld learning.”
Cicchelli says when you look at a technology like AI, the question should really be about empowering students and teach -
Girls THRIVE at Woodlands.
A Catholic, Independent, College-Preparatory Day and Boarding High School for Girls
ers to use it like they would another tool in the toolbox, rather than taking a passive approach just trying to keep up.
“I think we have to embrace that we really don’t know yet how it’s going to serve us but that we can explore AI and have it be a doorway for a new type of learning,” she explains.
A few years ago, Joe Byers, a STEAM teacher at School of St. Mary in Lake Forest, found himself playing around with AI and Chat GPT and using it in his personal life. Soon after, he brought his curiosity to the office and demonstrated AI to his pastor.
“Joe, can a computer pray?” Father Nacius asked.
“I was really taken aback by that question, and it framed how I approach artificial intelligence in my personal life and, certainly, as an educator,” Byers says. “We started this conversation with the
as human beings in general,” says Nancy Nassr, Assistant Head of School and Academic Dean at Lake Forest Academy (LFA). “It really changes how we consume and produce information. It’s equally exciting and terrifying when you think about it.”
One thing Nassr told her colleagues at LFA is not to get hung up on policing AI in terms of essays and to take a more creative approach in how it’s used.
“We need to start thinking more adaptively about it,” Nassr says. “The generative AI that we’re looking at is outpacing the people who created it and will definitely in time outpace the tools to detect it.”
As a parent of school-aged children and an educator, Andie Cavedo has a keen interest in AI and how it can be incorporated into the learning process. She’s a social studies teacher and information research specialist at Woodlands Academy of the Sacred Heart in Lake Forest with a role in helping the school shape its approach
question, ‘Can a computer pray?’ and used that to help us understand how much impact technologies are having on our own personal lives and on the lives of our students.”
That impact can be double-edged.
“AI is fascinating. It’s kind of our industrial revolution, not just in education, but
standpoint of school policies to prevent plagiarism and, especially as a Catholic school, some of the ethical questions about using it.”
Woodlands is one of a number of schools we spoke with that utilizes a “guess what’s real, guess what’s AI generated” exercise to help students identify when something they are reading is produced by an AI tool. It helps them both find their own voice in their writing and also analyze sources of research for reliability.
“Most of the AI tools available to students now were never intended to be used in an educational setting,” says Cavedo. “We have to talk about when you mismatch the tool you’re using for research to
the task at hand and the desired outcome you can have some unintended consequences.”
There are other lessons to be learned as AI courses its way through the educational bloodstream. It’s not just about the technology itself, but about other issues that emerge through the use of AI that impact students and their surroundings.
“It’s nurturing things like integrity, authenticity, and discernment,” says Whitney Wolf, Director of Marketing and Communication at Sacred Heart School in Winnetka. “Our roots come right from Sacred Heart, which is values-based decisionmaking. Our goal is to develop these kids into honest, honorable people, and that’s all inclusive.”
to AI. Cavedo says a few years ago she started having active conversations within the school, thinking about AI both from the teacher and the student perspective.
“This is a topic I’ve been thinking about for years, and I think I was a little ahead some of my colleagues,” Cavedo says.
“I’m grateful to be at a school right now that is taking AI seriously, both from the
LAKE FOREST COUNTRY DAY SCHOOL
WEBSITE: lfcds.org
NUMBER OF STUDENTS: 400
GRADES: Age 2 to Grade 8
TUITION: $5,925-$37,710
DEAN/HEAD TEACHER: John Melton, Head of School
RELIGIOUS AFFILIATION: None
ADMISSIONS: The LFCDS admission process seeks to identify families who value the spirit of partnership with their school and are drawn to a program that develops the whole child. For additional information, prospective families should contact the admission office at 847-615-6151.
CONTACT: Alex Sheridan, Associate Head of School for Advancement EMAIL: admission@lfcds.org
ABOUT US: For over 135 years, LFCDS has offered a program that is rich in tradition and honors the roots of the Country Day school movement. Through inspired teaching and partnership with families, Lake Forest Country Day School nurtures a love of learning and builds a foundation of strong character, preparing each student to navigate their path with purpose.
ACADEMICS: A blended approach to learning allows LFCDS to subscribe to best practice while offering a curriculum that meets each child where they are. Small by design, with classes between 12 to 15 students and 7:1 student-teacher ratio across the school, size enables LFCDS the ability to individualize and differentiate based on student interest and need.
CO-CURRICULAR ENRICHMENT/ARTS & ATHLETICS: The LFCDS program builds participation in the arts and athletics directly into the school day. Students participate in visual arts and music at every grade level, and drama is added for students in the Upper School (Grades 5-8). The athletic program is also a requirement for Upper School students, who are able to participate on three different teams during the course of the year. Teams meet at the end of the school day before dismissal, which not only gives students the opportunity to develop their skills and hone their sense of sportsmanship, but also to appreciate the value of participation and inclusion.
CULTURE AND COMMUNITY: There is a strong sense of connectedness that lives across the school’s 33-acre campus and 150,000 sq. foot building that binds the entire LFCDS community. Relationships among students, parents, and teachers live at the center of the LFCDS experience and carry on long after graduation.
OUTSTANDING CHARACTERISTICS: LFCDS has families from over 30 zip codes, commuting from as far south as Willowbrook and as far north as Lake Villa.
WOODLANDS ACADEMY OF THE SACRED HEART
WEBSITE: woodlandsacademy.org
NUMBER OF STUDENTS: 115 AGES: 14-18
TUITION: $34,500 (day student)
HEAD OF SCHOOL: Susan Tyree Dempf, Ph.D.
RELIGIOUS AFFILIATION: Catholic
ENTRANCE PROCEDURE: Prospective students and their families start by filling out an Admission Inquiry form on the school’s website. They can then schedule a personal tour and student visit day, allowing the prospective student to experience the spirit and energy Woodlands Academy students possess in the classroom. The next steps are to fill out an online application, apply for financial aid (optional), and register for an entrance exam. These steps can be completed by clicking on “Admission” at the top of the school’s homepage, and then selecting “Visit and Apply.”
CONTACT: Gretchen Radde
PHONE: 847-234-4300
TOURS: Personal tours of the school are available most days classes are in session. Contact admission@woodlandsacademy.org to schedule a visit.
CURRICULUM: Consistent with the Goals and Criteria for Sacred Heart education, Woodlands Academy’s academic program instills a deep respect for intellectual values, allowing students to engage in challenging experiences that inspire intellectual curiosity, a global mindset, and a life-long love of learning.
ENRICHMENT: The Woodlands Academy Center for Global Studies is a comprehensive academic and experiential program that provides EVERY student with a global education during her time at Woodlands. Students will have multiple opportunities to become culturally competent, globally minded citizens by exploring their world through group and individual exchange programs, group trips, and a locally based global-focused curriculum. Woodlands’ beautiful 41-acre Lake Forest campus is dotted with trees and green spaces, along with five newly constructed tennis courts and an enhanced athletic field. Extracurricular opportunities include a wide range of sports, more than two dozen student-run clubs—including competitive engineering and math clubs—multiple choirs, a theater program, and a full orchestra.
CULTURE & COMMUNITY: Woodlands Academy of the Sacred Heart is a Catholic, independent, college-preparatory, day and boarding high school designed to cultivate the gifts of each student and to allow intelligent, interested, and energetic young women to thrive. It is part of a network of 25 Sacred Heart schools in the U.S. and Canada and more than 155 schools worldwide. Woodlands is a place where young women can find a learning environment that is demanding, comfortable, joy-filled, and inspiring.
OUTSTANDING CHARACTERISTICS: Woodlands Academy has once again been named Illinois’ top all-girls high school in the 2025 report by Niche, an independent research company, which additionally gives Woodlands an overall A+ rating. Woodlands was also recognized by the U.S. Department of Education as a 2020 National Blue Ribbon School.
THE SCHOOL OF SAINTS FAITH, HOPE & CHARITY
WEBSITE: faithhopeschool.org
NUMBER OF STUDENTS: 275
GRADES: Pre-k (ages 3 and 4), K-8
TUITION: Varies
DEAN/HEAD TEACHER: Tom Meagher Ed.D., Principal
RELIGIOUS AFFILIATION: Roman Catholic, Saints Faith, Hope & Charity Catholic Parish
ADMISSIONS: New families are invited to schedule a tour of the school and campus. Inquiries and applications may be made via the school website.
CONTACT: Linda Ransford, Recruitment Manager
EMAIL: office@faithhopeschool.org
ABOUT US: The School of Saints Faith, Hope & Charity offers students an exceptional academic experience, grounded in faith. A two-time National Blue Ribbon School, FHC consistently helps our students achieve academic success, while developing character through our faith-based approach.
ACADEMICS: Beginning in kindergarten, we follow the Science of Reading approach to Reading, Writing and Phonics. Math classes are vertically aligned through all grades with a focus on students having the ability to master Algebra 1 prior to graduating. iReady Assessments are utilized to measure students’ academic attainment and growth. Faith is woven into each school day, and a school mass is celebrated once a week.
ENRICHMENT/ARTS & ATHLETICS: We offer an extensive interscholastic athletic program, including boys' and girls' basketball, volleyball, track, cross-country and golf; as well as boys' football and girls' cheerleading. A variety of after-school enrichment programs are also available. Our Fine Arts program offers students high quality music, art, and world language instruction (French & Spanish).
CULTURE AND COMMUNITY: We're supported by an extremely dedicated and caring community of families; and we connect new families with current families in similar grades. Events and programs such as Spirit of Service, Field Day, May Crowning and Hope Ceremonies help bring our community together.
OUTSTANDING CHARACTERISTICS:
• 2-time recipient of the National Blue Ribbon School Award
• 90% of students achieve iReady scores at or above grade level
• Spiritual nourishment that supports the whole child
• Experienced faculty, staff and leadership team
• Nurturing, community-based environment
• Engaging and challenging academics
• Families that connect closely with our school
NORTH SHORE COUNTRY DAY
WEBSITE: nscds.org
NUMBER OF STUDENTS: 510 GRADES: JK-12
TUITION: $24,425-$41,425
HEAD TEACHER: Tom Flemma
RELIGIOUS AFFILIATION: N/A
ENTRANCE PROCEDURE: As part of the admissions process, all families submit an application, transcript, letters of recommendation, and participate in a student interview, shadow visit, or readiness screening. The application and information collected vary by the student’s grade of entry.
CONTACT: Mullery Doar, Director of Admissions and Financial Aid
EMAIL: admissions@nscds.org
OPEN: nscds.org/admissions/visit-us
In-person tours and shadow visits are offered on weekdays during school hours. Please contact the Admissions Office to schedule.
CURRICULUM: Through a comprehensive and skills-based education, NSCD students not only excel in core subjects, but also cultivate their analytical thinking, communication and creative-problem solving skills through engaging assessments and projects. Our rigorous college preparatory program takes it a step further by encouraging active participation in the arts, athletics and community service, empowering students to explore the depth and breadth of their abilities. It's about more than just academics; it's about cultivating well-rounded leaders prepared to make a difference in the world.
ENRICHMENT: By participating in arts, athletics and co-curricular activities, NSCD students gain confidence and leadership skills, while forging lifelong friendships. Our lower school offers several after-school enrichment programs, and the middle and upper schools offer more than 28 student-led clubs and affinity groups. North Shore consistently punches above its weight in high school athletics, leading the way in individual and team conference and state titles compared to other schools of its size. Many graduates also continue on to play sports in college.
CULTURE & COMMUNITY: Rooted in the progressive education movement, our school community is a testament to the enduring power of our mission and vision. Generations of alumni, families, faculty and staff have nurtured and sustained this legacy, guiding us through more than a century of growth and excellence. Here, every student is known, valued and empowered to become the amazing people they are meant to be.
NEW TO YOUR SCHOOL: As the premier independent school in the Chicagoland area, we equip every student with the values, skills and confidence to lead in a complex world.
OUTSTANDING CHARACTERISTICS: Student-centered education for 510 students in junior kindergarten through 12th grade; students are from 47 ZIP codes around the Chicagoland area, and 45 percent identify as students of color; 7:1 student-to-teacher ratio and 52:2 student-to-college counselor ratio; 1 in every 5 students receive need-based financial aid. Our school motto is “Live and Serve.”
SCHOOL OF ST. MARY
WEBSITE: schoolofstmary.org
NUMBER OF STUDENTS: 430
GRADES: PreK 2-through 8th Grade
TUITION: Tuition varies within the range of $4,000 - $13,000. Multiple siblings, military, and parishioner discounts are available.
DEAN/HEAD TEACHER: Mrs. Kathy Thompson
RELIGIOUS AFFILIATION: Catholic
ADMISSIONS: Online applications open in November (see website)
CONTACT: Mandy Castle, Director of Admissions
EMAIL: mcastle@schoolofstmary.org
TOURS: Call to schedule or complete the online inquiry form on our website.
CURRICULUM: From the youngest Primary Grade Center preschooler to the most mature 8th-grader at the Upper Grade Center, a School of St. Mary (SOSM) Crusader demonstrates genuine school pride, a sense of community, personal confidence, Catholic values, and a deep commitment to serving others. Since 1917, SOSM has remained committed to educating the whole child within and beyond the classroom.
ENRICHMENT: Accelerated reading and math programs in middle school allow students to move beyond grade level as they prepare for high school. Extracurricular activities allow students to further their interest areas and focus on their non-academic pursuits, including sports, forming well-rounded individuals.
CULTURE & COMMUNITY: The School of St. Mary partners with parents, parishioners, and staff to form a vibrant school community that engages, motivates, and supports students to be the best they can be! An active Parents Association and leadership team coordinates special events to engage students, build relationships, and broaden the community. Teachers pair Upper Grade Center students with buddies from our Primary Grade Center to mentor and assist them at school-related activities, including praying together at Mass, socializing at lunch, and sharing service projects.
LEADERSHIP: Mrs. Kathy Thompson, the principal, has served in many capacities at the school for twenty-eight years. In April of 2022, she received the prestigious Lead, Learn, Proclaim Award from the National Catholic Education Association. Overseeing two age-appropriate campuses, Mrs. Thompson regularly collaborates with a strong administrative team and student services department to focus on the development of the whole child, assuring faith formation, academic excellence, service learning, social and emotional wellness, as well as values for life.
OUTSTANDING CHARACTERISTICS:
• Three-time recipient of the U.S. Department of Education Blue Ribbon award in the category of academic excellence. Only 38 private schools in the country have ever received this award three times.
• Two campuses provide age-appropriate learning as well as social-emotional well-being.
• Our 100-year history of maintaining tradition and adjusting curriculum to meet current standards.
• Small class sizes mean students get differentiated curriculum to reach their highest potential.
• Resource room to accommodate most student needs.
• Covering two-year old through 8th grade allows students to stay within SOSM Family for their elementary years. Allowing them to be known and nurtured as they grow into their true selves.
• Social Workers and resource teachers to accommodate students’ needs.
SACRED HEART SCHOOL
WEBSITE: shwschool.org
NUMBER OF STUDENTS: 157
GRADES: 3-year-old Preschool through 8th Grade
TUITION: $8545 before new family incentives, military discounts and sibling discounts. Financial Aid also available.
DEAN/HEAD TEACHER: Mrs. Jodi Reuter, Principal
RELIGIOUS AFFILIATION: Catholic
ENTRANCE PROCEDURE: Schedule a tour and apply online.
CONTACT: Denise D'Aloia, Director of Admissions & Advancement
EMAIL: ddaloia@shwschool.org
OPEN HOUSE & TOURS: Shadow Day for Prospective Students on Friday, April 25th
CURRICULUM: Sacred Heart provides children with a rigorous, values-based educational experience where teachers and parents strive to ensure that students in PreK-8th grade discover – and retain – the joy of discovery and learning. All students experience music, art, PE, library, STEAM, and Spanish as a part of the regular school day. In addition to exceptional academics, as recognized by our National Blue Ribbon of Educational Excellence, 9X Apple Distinguished School designation, and consistent A+ rating on Niche, we also place great importance on faith-inspired values including kindness, compassion, empathy, and peaceful problemsolving. Acceptance into top-choice high schools and colleges is just the beginning. Creating an exceptional, well-rounded human being is the end goal.
ENRICHMENT: We offer year-round, no-cut sports, a renowned theatrical program in collaboration with a London-based playwright, a variety of after-school enrichment programs (beginning in 3-year-old Preschool), and a teacher-staffed Homework Lab. For students who need a little extra help, whether it’s temporary or long-term, we also have a robust student services department, inclusive of a school counselor, math and reading specialist, speech pathologist, and our newest addition, Bernie, the Certified Therapy Dog.
CULTURE & COMMUNITY: Sacred Heart is more than just an elementary school—we are a thriving community where deep, lifelong friendships flourish among students and parents alike. We foster a culture of support and care. Rooted in our faith, we guide our children to embrace our core values: Love, Serve, Engage, Discover, Persevere. We teach our students that challenges are opportunities in disguise. And though we are a Catholic school, we warmly welcome students of all faiths, embracing diversity with open arms and open hearts.
NEW TO YOUR SCHOOL: Due to high demand and our ongoing commitment to smaller class sizes, Sacred Heart has opened up a 3rd Junior Kindergarten class in order to accept more students for the 2025-2026 academic year. Furthermore, we are offering a full-day preschool option (8:15 AM - 2:45 PM) in the fall. Finally, it has always been our mission to ensure that anyone who wants to come to Sacred Heart is able to do so, regardless of their financial situation. In addition to generous financial aid options, we launched the Core Values Scholarship Fund this year. Our core values—Love, Serve, Engage, Discover, and Persevere—guide everything we do. In honor of students who exemplify these values, we proudly offer this new scholarship - another way of reinforcing our belief that attitude is as important as aptitude.
OUTSTANDING CHARACTERISTICS: As a National Blue Ribbon Award-winning school, our school is built on a foundation of academic excellence, rooted in faith and community, and recognized for cultivating future leaders. Sacred Heart consistently receives accolades for its rigorous academic programs, but it’s the heart of our community that truly sets us apart. From award-winning teachers, who go above and beyond to engage and nurture each child, to our thriving arts, music, and athletics programs, Sacred Heart creates wellrounded students prepared for success in all facets of life. Whether in the classroom, on our state-of-the-art playground and turf, or through our many service projects and extracurricular programs, Sacred Heart fosters a love for learning, personal growth, and a deep sense of responsibility to make a difference in the world.
BAKER DEMONSTRATION SCHOOL
WEBSITE: bakerdemschool.org
NUMBER OF STUDENTS: 170 GRADES: PK-8
TUITION: $20,000-$38,000
DEAN/HEAD TEACHER: Kate Cicchelli, Head of School
RELIGIOUS AFFILIATION: N/A
ADMISSIONS: Our personalized admissions process allows for you to explore our school community and for our team to learn about your goals for your family and child’s education. The process includes a tour and student visit. We encourage families to also attend many of our weekend community events including, STEAM event with NASA, Baker Bash Art Expo, the Spring Play, and more.
CONTACT: Igho Oraka; Director of Admissions
EMAIL: ioraka@bakerdemschool.org
TOURS: Check our website for tour availability or complete an inquiry form to schedule a visit.
ABOUT US: Imagine a classroom where learning comes alive through exploration and intention. At Baker Demonstration School, education is about hands-on discovery, collaborative problem-solving, and real-world connections. A Pre-K classroom might be exploring measurement by pouring water into containers, developing mathematical thinking while experiencing the joy of discovery. During Walking Wednesday, kindergartners will learn scientific observation, developing vocabulary, and connecting with nature. Picture third graders, designing a sustainability project integrating science, math, and social studies. They're not just learning about ecosystems; they're measuring soil composition and calculating plant spacings. In our innovative learning spaces, middle school students might spend a morning in a maker space constructing robotic prototypes, then transition with a trip to the Northwestern University Science Laboratories . A middle school humanities class could be collaboratively creating a documentary about community changemakers, developing research, and storytelling skills simultaneously.
ACADEMICS: At Baker Demonstration School, experiential learning has been at the heart of our approach for over 100 years. Baker combines innovation with best practices in leading the way with exceptional emergent curriculum and a world class education. Baker prepares students not just for high school or university, but for an ever-evolving world.
CO-CURRICULAR ENRICHMENT/ARTS & ATHLETICS: Baker students enjoy drama, art, technology, music, science, dance, p.e. and swimming and outdoor education trips. In Middle School, students participate in Arts Core where they select their own electives in the arts and technology. Baker students enjoy learning Spanish starting in Pre-k and add Latin, the foundation to languages, beginning in 5th grade. Baker’s campus has beautiful facilities including the 165-seat auditorium, large gymnasium, outdoor field, two playgrounds, an indoor pool, art studio, and maker lab. Baker sponsors sports teams for students in 4th through 8th grade including interscholastic basketball, flag football, soccer, and track and field. We also offer a robust after school program offering Baker Bots, arts, swim, cooking, open play and more and before school care begins at 7:30 a.m.
CULTURE AND COMMUNITY: Baker’s mission is to champion an exemplary progressive education, which cultivates an intrinsic motivation to learn, values differences, nurtures the whole person, and encourages courageous choices. The school environment is vigorous, joyful and supportive and values the teacher-parent-student relationship. Baker has a robust family organization sponsoring a variety of community events.
OUTSTANDING CHARACTERISTICS:
• Ninety percent of faculty hold an advanced degrees
• Middle school curricular choice in the arts and technology
• World language offering Spanish and Latin
• Hands-on experiential learning for PK-8
• Multiple outdoor learning spaces for preschool through 8th grade
DEAN/HEAD TEACHER: Dr. Margaret Hoody, Principal RELIGIOUS AFFILIATION: Roman Catholic ADMISSIONS: See the school website for detailed information.
CONTACT: Mary Huettl EMAIL: admissions@stnorbertschool.org
ABOUT US: For more than a century, St. Norbert School (SNS) has prepared its students for a life of success by immersing them in a continuous learning program from preschool through eighth grade. SNS is a recognized leader in education with an exceptional faculty dedicated to educating the whole child. Students are inspired to become confident, independent, life-long learners with the critical skills and Catholic values needed to reach their full potential. Our students benefit from the individualized attention and support that small classes afford.
Central to the school's identity is our Catholic faith, which permeates all aspects of student life. Students participate in daily prayers, regular Masses, and religious education classes that deepen their understanding of Catholic teachings and traditions. This spiritual foundation encourages students to live out the Gospel values in their everyday lives, promoting a sense of moral responsibility and empathy towards others.
The school encourages active parental involvement. This collaboration ensures a cohesive approach to each child's development and strengthens the school community. Families who wish to be especially involved are encouraged to join one of the several parent-led organizations at the school. These include the School Advisory Board, the Home & School Association, and the Athletic Committee.
ACADEMICS: Academically, faculty are committed to ensuring that each student demonstrates at least a year’s growth in a year’s time, or better. This aim is realized through thoughtful use of diagnostic assessment, targeted instruction, progress monitoring, and dynamic curricula and learning tools. Faculty work with care to curate a coherent longitudinal curriculum that is developmentally attuned to the distinct needs of early childhood, primary, intermediate, and middle level learners.
ENRICHMENT, ARTS, & ATHLETICS: Recognizing the importance of holistic development, St. Norbert School offers a wide array of extracurricular and cocurricular activities to cater to the diverse interests of our students. Offerings include our world languages program, advisory program, student government, no-cut athletics, after school art sessions, and other student clubs. These activities not only enhance the educational experience but also instill critical life skills that serve our students beyond their years at St. Norbert.
OUTSTANDING CHARACTERISTICS: With a solid foundation in academics, moral values, and leadership, our students are uniquely equipped to serve, lead, and succeed within and beyond our school community.
LAKE FOREST ACADEMY
WEBSITE: lfanet.org
NUMBER OF STUDENTS: 452
GRADES: 9-12 grades
2025-26 TUITION: Day Student: $54,950/Boarding Student: $75,975
DEAN/HEAD TEACHER: Tom Johnson, Interim Head of School
RELIGIOUS AFFILIATION: N/A
ADMISSIONS: Application requirements are on the Apply Page at www.lfanet.org. We require standardized testing including the SSAT or ISEE, a student interview, transcripts, teacher recommendations and essays from the students and parents. Application deadline for the 2026-27 academic year is in January 2026.
CONTACT: Carolyn Gorowski, Dean of Admissions
EMAIL: admissions@lfanet.org
ABOUT US: Founded in 1857, Lake Forest Academy is a coed boarding high school serving academically bright and motivated students from across the globe. The school's mission of educational excellence is founded on the four pillars of character, scholarship, citizenship, and responsibility.
ACADEMICS: LFA’s academic program is individualized for our students’ development and prepares them for college-level courses. In addition to regular graduation requirements, all students must participate in Health, Wellness & Community courses with members of their class.
ARTS & ATHLETICS: Instrumental artists can join Orchestra, Jazz Band, and chamber groups while singers perform in an a capella group and Choir. Theater Tech runs the logistics behind every performance, Morning Meeting, All-School Meeting, and special events as well as the fall play, winter musical, and spring student showcase. Visual arts courses include ceramics, design, glass, photography, and woodworking.
LFA’s athletics program promotes sportsmanship and participation. Student-athletes come from a wide variety of backgrounds and skill levels and can participate in one of the 27 varsity teams or 10 physical education options.
CULTURE & COMMUNITY: LFA fosters a vibrant culture and close-knit community that values inclusivity and encourages global perspectives. Faculty engage students in small classes, nurturing individual potential. LFA's culture celebrates diversity, fosters academic rigor, and cultivates lifelong connections.
OUTSTANDING CHARACTERISTICS: LFA welcomes students from diverse backgrounds that include 47 local communities, 19 states, and 40 countries. The Academy offers rigorous collegepreparatory education with dedicated faculty, small class sizes, and advanced courses, preparing students for success in higher education. LFA values inclusivity and fosters a close-knit community where students feel supported and connected and also focuses on instilling values like integrity, respect, and responsibility, nurturing well-rounded individuals.
ADDITIONAL INFORMATION: Average class sizes of 12 students and a 7:1 student/faculty ratio with 24 AP courses and 73 percent of faculty live on campus to provide support before, during, and after the school day.
North Shore ®
JUST BOUGHT & SOLD WITH CORY
“From the outset, Cory promised “number 1” priority service in the sale of my real estate. He far exceeded even those top standards, if possible. Any question asked any hour of the day was promptly answered within secondsno exaggeration. He was available 24/7 and then some. His knowledge of the real estate sales process and current market conditions - particularly in the Ravinia area of Highland Park - was unparalleled by any of the other experts who were involved in this transaction. He should be your number 1 choice as REALTOR®”
—Ann Christoff, Highland Park
RAVINIA
COURTNEY GRIMES’ connection to The Woman’s Board of Northwestern Memorial Hospital started in a long white gown with matching white gloves at the 2006 Passavant Cotillion. Three of her children have since made their “debut” at Northwestern Medicine Prentice Women’s Hospital’s labor and delivery department. “I’ve experienced firsthand the extraordinary level of care that defines this institution,” explains Grimes. “The expertise of Northwestern’s medical team proved invaluable when a perceptive nurse detected a subtle GI issue in my newborn daughter—an early catch that made all the difference in her recovery.” Through her own journey of motherhood and witnessing the diverse paths others take, she’s come to deeply understand that reproductive healthcare isn’t onesize-fits-all. Each woman’s story is unique, making her passionate about the board’s mission—ensuring that every woman, regardless of her path, has access to the highest standard of care during their reproductive lifetimes. As co-chair of The Woman’s Board fundraiser, “Summer Soiree, La Dolce Vita,” at Saddle & Cycle on May 30, the “on the Italian Riviera” theme evokes daydreams of sunny days and dining al fresco after a long winter. “Envision stepping into a dreamy Italian summer evening, where the warmth of the Mediterranean comes alive,” she explains. Elizabeth Meador floral arrangements will help create a captivating scene featuring sun-ripened lemons nestled among warm-hued blooms, fresh herbs, and olive branches with the menu bringing authentic Italian flavors to life. Live music under the stars creates the perfect ambiance of an Italian terrazzo at sunset with spritzes in hand.
#ON MY NIGHTSTAND
I am in the middle of Ina Garten’s Be Ready When the Luck Happens: A Memoir. I have been a fan for ages, and I love her message in embracing authenticity, cultivating meaningful relationships, and finding joy in life’s journey. Next up on my list is The Wedding People by Allison Espach.
With three little kids, I want our home to feel like a safe and happy space for our family. I love looking at @emilymsturgess for interior design inspiration and can’t wait to see the Ladies Office she is creating for the upcoming @lfshowhouse. I also love @paigespearinstudio who is one of my favorite artists. Her distinctive watercolor paintings bring me so much joy! Particularly her charming bunny paintings that are whimsical and resonate with both adults and children. I look to @geminidesigns for landscape ideas and seasonal pots that get me in the spirit for the upcoming season.
#IN MY EARBUDS
I love music! It is always an instant mood booster. To get inspired for our “Summer Soiree, Le Dolce Vita,” I have been listening to the Italian Summer Hits and Italian Cooking Music playlist on Spotify. When I have one of my kids in the car, we are usually belting out songs from the Wicked soundtrack.
#ON MY MOBILE
EDITED BY REDDING WORTH ILLUSTRATION BY TOM BACHTELL
BLACK CREATIVITY GALA
The Griffin Museum of Science and Industry (MSI) hosted its annual Black Creativity Gala, a vibrant and extraordinary evening celebrating the remarkable achievements of Black artistry and innovation. This year, the event raised over $700,000 for various targeted, culturally relevant STE(A)M education programs. The special night welcomed 750 guests and showcased the Black Creativity Juried Art Exhibition, which has been displayed annually at Griffin MSI since 1970 and is the country’s longestrunning exhibition of African-American art. msichicago.org
PHOTOGRAPHY COURTESY OF GRIFFIN MUSEUM OF SCIENCE AND INDUSTRY
JONATHAN JACKSON, CHRIS WELCH, RASHOD JOHNSON
CYNTHIA PETERSON, NICOLE ROBINSON, MELODY M. MILLER, NICOLE REED
A MEMBER OF THE SOUTH SHORE DRILL TEAM ROSEMARY SUMMERS
RASHOD JOHNSON
IRISH BARMBRACK
BY MONICA KASS ROGERS FOOD EDITOR THE NORTH SHORE WEEKEND
Although St. Patrick’s Day is behind us, Easter weekend is the perfect time to bake this beautiful barmbrack (bairin breac or “speckled loaf” in Gaelic) a fragrant Irish bread studded with whiskeyand-tea-soaked dried fruit. Although many of the barmbrack recipes circulating out there today are actually cakes (like date or banana breads) barmbrack was originally a yeasted bread. Our recipe sticks with that tradition and yields a fragrant, lightly sweet bread that’s very good eaten right out of the oven or toasted the next day and spread with plenty of Irish butter.
Interestingly, like Mardi Gras king cakes, which come with good luck tokens hidden inside (coins, rings, plastic baby figurines), Irish barmbrack is also often baked with trinkets in it that follow Druidic fortune-telling traditions—coins for good fortune, thimbles predicting spinster or bachelorhood, beans portending poverty etc. We’ve kept our recipe trinket-free, figuring that the whiskey-soaked fruit is treasure enough.
MAKES:
1, 9 X 5-INCH
LOAF
INGREDIENTS
FOR THE WHISKEY-SOAKED FRUIT
• 1 ½ cups hot water steeped with 2 teabags of good Irish black tea
• ½ cup Irish whiskey
• ½ cup golden raisins, snipped or chopped in half
• ½ cup Thompson seedless (black) raisins, snipped or chopped in half
• ½ cup your choice of chopped dried cherries, dried cranberries, dried apricots, or dried pineapple, or a mixture of all of the above
• 2 cups bread flour, plus ¼ cup more for dusting work surface
• ½ tsp salt
• ¼ cup superfine (caster) sugar
• ½ tsp ground cinnamon
• ¼ tsp ground clove
• ¼ tsp ground mace
• 3 Tbsp unsalted butter, softened, plus 1 Tbsp for greasing the loaf pan
• 2 cups soused fruit from above
METHOD
SOAK DRIED FRUIT: Combine black tea with whiskey in a medium bowl. Add all of the dried fruit and soak for 6 hours, or, overnight. Drain and squeeze liquid from soaked fruit and either discard liquid, or save it for another use (it’s delicious!). Set soaked fruit aside while you make the dough.
MAKE DOUGH: Warm milk until quite warm but not hot and whisk with yeast in a small bowl. Place bowl in a warm spot to allow yeast to bloom. Once bloomed (takes about 10 minutes) whisk egg into the yeast/milk mixture. Set aside.
Whisk flour, superfine sugar, salt, and spice together. In the bowl of a stand mixer with paddle attachment, add flour mixture plus butter and beat to incorporate the butter. Add reserved yeast/egg/milk mixture to the dry ingredients and continue beating until dough gathers up.
Remove ball of dough from bowl and place on floured work surface. Using your hands, smush the drained fruit into the dough ball and knead. Add a little more flour to work surface as needed until you have worked the dough into a smooth ball with the fruit studded throughout. Shape into a log. Grease the sides and bottom of the loaf pan with butter. Press dough into loaf pan and level. Loosely cover pan with greased plastic wrap. Place a clean kitchen towel over the top. Set loaf pan in a warm place. Allow dough to rise for about 2 hours or until nicely domed above the top over the loaf pan. With oven rack in center position, preheat oven to 350 degrees. Bake bread for 45 to 50 minutes until bread is deeply brown and sounds hollow when sharply tapped. Remove bread to a cooling rack to cool slightly. Slice and serve while warm, or toast the bread the next day and serve spread with Irish butter.
BITTER KISS OF ITALIAN SUMMER
The Negroni is not sweet. It’s not shy. It’s the tailored suit of cocktails—cut sharp, Italian, and ever so slightly dangerous. Sip it like you’ve been places. Sip it like you’ve got stories to tell.
MAKES ONE INGREDIENTS
• 1 oz London Dry Gin
• 1 oz Campari
• 1 oz Sweet Vermouth
• Orange peel (for garnish)
METHOD
In a mixing glass filled with ice, stir all three spirits until chilled but not over-diluted—about 30 slow turns. Strain into a rocks glass over a single large cube or many rocks. Express an orange peel over the top, then drop it in like a calling card.
MISSION: IMPOSSIBLE –THE FINAL RECKONING
The seventh and final chapter of a popular action film franchise starring Tom Cruise plays it too safe to thrill.
BY FELIX MCMILLAN,
BACHTELL
VERDICT: Arriving in theaters next month, The Final Reckoning is thrilling, relentless, and exhaustingly slick—an operatic curtain call for a franchise that mastered motion, but dodged meaning.
For nearly three decades, the Mission: Impossible franchise has chased its own ghost—reinventing, recalibrating, and out-running its own irrelevance with a near-mystical devotion to escalation. The Final Reckoning, its seventh and supposedly final chapter, arrives with all the polish of a legacy finale and most of the substance of a glossy farewell tour.
Tom Cruise, now in his early 60s but sprinting like it’s still 1996, returns as Ethan Hunt—super-agent, self-sacrificing adrenaline prophet, and the last man alive who can disarm a nuclear core while hanging from the wheel well of a mid-air cargo plane. He is, by now, less character than concept—pure velocity with a human face.
The film’s plot is, as expected, a labyrinthine mesh of double agents, world-ending algorithms, and geopolitics as screen dressing. The story doesn’t so much unfold as unspool—dragged forward by set pieces
of staggering technical achievement: a high-speed motorcycle chase through Marrakesh, a glacial train sequence that seems to defy Newton himself, and a deep-sea infiltration stunt that nearly outdoes Ghost Protocol’s Burj Khalifa spectacle.
But spectacle, this time, is both the offering and the distraction.
For all its scale, The Final Reckoning feels curiously weightless. Emotional stakes are hinted at—a lost love, a ghost from Ethan’s past—but they never land. Rebecca Ferguson returns briefly with more gravity than the script deserves, and Hayley Atwell does her best with a character that seems surgically engineered to be just complex enough for two films, not seven.
McQuarrie directs with customary crispness, but the film ultimately confirms what the franchise has long suspected: Ethan Hunt cannot die, because he was never truly alive.
MAN ABOUT FILM ILLUSTRATION BY TOM
S a v e u p t o $ 1 2 0 0
THE WITNESS BENEATH THE RIVEN SKY
He’d seen men break, and watched them bleed,
The cries, the pleas, the final need—
The centurion, cloaked in Roman pride,
Had stared down death with eyes stone-dried.
A soldier’s soul, in iron bound, He’d nailed the Christ without a sound,
Another cross, another name—
A stranger’s fate, a rebel’s shame.
But then the air grew thick with dread,
As Heaven shook and earth lay dead.
The sun withdrew its ancient flame,
And silence fell like weighted shame.
The veil was torn. The dead arose.
The temple trembled in repose.
The hills split open, graves unsealed—
The very bones of truth revealed.
No spear could pierce what pierced him then—
A tremor not of earth, but men.
The logic snapped, the heart unmasked,
What force, what fault, had he unasked?
He gazed upon the broken form,
A king undone by brutal storm, And all at once, with breath restrained, He knew this death was preordained.
No Caesar held such silent power,
No myth had stirred the final hour.
No mortal frame could thus unfold
The prophecy the ancients told.
He dropped his sword. His voice grew low,
As awe gave shape to what he'd know:
"Truly," he cried, though late and flawed, "This man—this man—was the Son of God."
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Yes, Highland Park’s Marie-Andrée (Aimée) Laberge, the wife of a former newsman, makes news herself, receiving a prestigious medal from the Consul General of France.
BY BILL MCLEAN ILLUSTRATION BY BARRY BLITT
The recent recipient of a Knighthood (arts and letters) from the government of France swims at the Recreation Center of Highland Park, sweeps the ice in front of a delivered stone at the Chicago Curling Club in Northbrook, and rents a local psychologist’s office several times a week to work on her third novel.
Whip-smart, funny, humble, and preternaturally engaging, author/artist and former Alliance Francais de Chicago Program
Director Marie-Andrée—also known as Aimée—Laberge sits across from me at a table in a Highland Park bakery and café.
The name of the cozy establishment?
That Little French Guy.
Her choice. Perfect.
She orders a spiral French pastry.
“Known as an escargot pastry,” Laberge says. “See? It’s snail-shaped.”
She smiles.
The conversation shifts to something inedible, something precious—the striking Knighthood medal she’d earned after promoting and sharing French culture as director of hundreds of programs during her 15 years (2009-2024) at the Alliance Francais de Chicago.
“It takes an army to receive such a medal,” says the 66-year-old of the prize, bestowed upon her in Chicago by Consul General of France Yannick Tagand on March 17. “It takes support from family, friends, and colleagues. My army was with me for so many years. The people I worked with at the Alliance are family to me.
“I was surprised, delighted, and honored when I found out I would receive the medal,” adds the native of Québec City and the Highland Park resident—with husband Kevin Tibbles, the retired, award-winning NBC News correspondent—since 2000.
Before the start of her tenure at the Alliance, Laberge was an author and soccer/hockey mom, sometimes poring over
manuscripts from a chilly seat in a hockey rink while her son, Andreas, skated in games.
“I started writing in English when we lived in London (1995-2000), and my confidence in English writing grew from there,” says Laberge, a former graphic artist whose first novel, Where the River Narrows, was published in 2004. “Our chil dren (they also raised a daughter, Marguerite) have British accents.”
Laberge and Tibbles first met on the set of a Toronto television station. She was a graphic artist, creating overthe-shoulder artwork for segments featuring a reporter.
Tibbles was a cub reporter back then.
“Kevin was working on a
move from Toronto to Edmonton, back to Toronto, then to Calgary and Montreal, where he worked for the Canadian Broadcasting Corporation. London became home ahead of Tibbles’ NBC News transfer to the Chicago
“People loved Kevin when he was on the air because he was curious,” Laberge says. “Curiosity drew people to him. Kevin never made the story about him; the focus was always on the story.
“His job, with all of our moves, took me out of my comfort zone often,” she continues.
“But that was a good thing. I looked at our moves as adventures. They weren’t always easy; Kevin reported from war zones.”
They both love to battle in curling games
It takes an army to receive such a medal. It takes support from family, friends, and colleagues. My army was with me for so many years.
story about buffalo meat burgers,” Laberge recalls. “It was a last-minute assignment, with Kevin wondering what I’d come up with before the broadcast.”
A courtship followed. They got married in 1988, and Tibbles’ work made the couple
CONTRIBUTING EDITORS
at the Chicago Curling Club in nearby Northbrook.
“It’s an amazing sport, from the strategies involved to the physics of it,” says Laberge, who also enjoys skiing. “You know what else is great about it? The broomstacking. Have
CONTRIBUTING WRITERS
Cheyanne Lencioni, Bill McLean, Redding Worth
you heard of that? The broomstacking happens after the games, when you sit around and socialize with other curlers.”
As a senior in high school, Laberge sat at a table with poets and actors in Canada when she heard the play (or sketch) she had written for her French class had won a contest.
The artists at her table had served as contest judges.
“It was a three-character, non-traditional play; put it that way,” says Laberge, who has completed three Ragdale artist residencies in Lake Forest. “That French teacher was my favorite teacher. He had taken an administrative position after teaching for a while but later returned to teaching because he missed the classroom so much.”
Retirement has given Laberge plenty of time to plug away at crafting chapters for her third novel. Usually, three times a week she escapes to the psychologist’s office that she rents.
“When I find the time to swim, I’m thinking about the scenes in my book while doing my laps,” Laberge says. “Swimming helps me as a writer, helps me unlock things.”
French culture stirs her.
“I love and appreciate all aspects of it, and that’s why I loved my opportunity to work at the Alliance Francais de Chicago,” Laberge says, adding 800 such alliances exist worldwide, including 115 in the United States and her favorite one abroad—Shanghai’s. “French food and wine, French films, French fashion, French theatre, everything French.
“Americans,” she adds, “love and appreciate French culture, too.”
The Alliance Francais de Chicago’s mission is to be Chicago’s center for French language and Francophone cultures, promoting exchange, understanding, and friendship between Americans and French-speaking people.
Laberge threw her energy into fulfilling it for 15 years.
