Dear District 115 Parent/Guardian,
I write this on a day that feels less defined by a pandemic and more like springtime. With that in mind, let me share a few updates, opportunities, and resources as we continue e-Learning and look ahead this spring.
We know there are two important upcoming Lake Forest Scout traditions planned for later this spring, and we have worked hard to identify ways to stay true to both graduation and prom.
Prom
Regretfully, we have made the difficult decision to cancel prom this year as it would be unwise to host such a large gathering of our students during this uncertain time. We would like to thank the Junior Class, the APT Prom Committee, parent volunteers, and staff members who have worked so diligently to plan this event.
LFHS Class of 2020 Graduation
Graduation is currently scheduled for Saturday, June 6. Out of an abundance of caution, we have also identified Saturday, July 18 and Saturday, August 1 as potential backup dates. We remain committed to monitoring the situation with the hope of coming together but only if and when it is deemed safe to do so. We will continue to keep you updated.
AP Testing
The College Board announced this week that 2020 AP Tests will be offered online this year, 45 minutes in length and taken at home by students. Details follow below:
- The primary testing dates will be May 11 - 22
- The make-up testing dates will be June 1 - 5
- Each AP Exam will be offered at the same time worldwide. Here is a link to the 2020 AP schedule
- Students with accommodations will be able to use their accommodations.
- For tips on AP Exam preparation, click here
Mandated Testing - SAT/ISA
The annual and federally-mandated spring SAT testing for juniors as well as the Illinois State Board of Education (ISBE)-mandated Illinois Science Assessment (ISA) for juniors have been cancelled for this year.
Locally-Administered STAR Testing
The locally-administered STAR testing will continue as planned. All Freshmen, Sophomores, and Juniors will receive information regarding the completion of the Spring STAR Reading Assessment facilitated through their English courses. Students are expected to complete this remote assessment.
Summer School
Summer School registration is open. Visit the 2020 Summer School Course Guide to learn more or Register and Pay Online. If you have additional questions, please contact Assistant Principal Jim Sullivan (jsullivan@lfschools.net). We have not yet made a final decision whether summer school will be online or in person. We will update students and families when more information is available and appreciate your patience.
New Resources for Students and Families
As the novelty of remote learning wears off and we press on in the semester, we cannot minimize the stamina required by students, staff, and families as we work to sustain engagement and performance in this new learning modality while simultaneously managing the many other aspects of our lives. I am pleased to introduce a new web page called the LFHS Community Corner, a thoughtfully-curated collection of academic, e-learning, social-emotional, family, and wellness resources. There has never been a more important time for us to stay connected as a Scout family and our new Community Corner is a great place to do that.
Stay Home, Stay Safe
As the weather improves it is more important than ever that we all continue to do our part with social distancing. It is the only way we will continue to flatten the curve, reduce the spread of the virus, and eventually return to our normal lives. As a reminder, the City of Lake Forest has closed the beach. Additionally, the Lake Forest Police Department has published the following guidelines: Please limit any non-essential activities outside your home. Walking is permitted; however, unrelated groups meeting in public, even with a 6-foot separation, is not.
Good News
If you haven’t taken a look at the Forest Scout Shout Outs, they are not to be missed! So many are reaching out to help others in our school community. Kudos to all.
And Finally
I hope you’ve seen some of the great work of our New Media students posted on Instagram and elsewhere as they continue to publish stories of the ways they are making the most of their time at home in a series called Inside-N-Out. Chloe says this time at home has given her a chance to rediscover art. As we continue to stay home, I hope you are using some of that found time to enjoy the people and hobbies you love.
Sincerely,
Michael V. Simeck
