Lake Forest Academy

Outstanding school with excellent leadership, teaching, and results. The college placements this year were as strong as any school in the country. As a parent I am very pleased with everything LFA does.
--Submitted by a parent

Strudwick does not engage with the parents. For the tuition I paid, he should be sucking up more. People need to be aware that MANY of the teachers at the school are NOT even certified to teach. Very few teachers actually have a degree in education. The college counselors at this school are not helpful or available. My daughter asked several of her teachers to write recommendations and there were a few who were receptive. For example, Edward Shaughnessy was a terrible advocate for her. He is unprofessional and rude. I hope parents consider their options when selecting to send their child to a private school.
--Submitted by a parent

I think LFA is an excellent school, and it was a great experience for both our daughter and our family. Our daughter got into her 'first choice' college and is thriving. The campus is beautiful, and the opportunities were excellent. Students looking for athletic college scholarships may do better at a larger public high school, but students who would benefit from small classes and close teacher-student relations will excel here. We found that our daughters teachers always worked hard with her to help her succeed. Like any school, some teachers were better than others, but overall we felt it was a great experience. The zero tolerance policy is very rigid. Volunteer opportunities for parents are good.
--Submitted by a parent

Academics challenging to all students' capabilities. Teachers required to hold office hours for student questions. Small school environment allows more involvement in student leadership. All students required to participate at some level in sports (assistant to coach fulfills requirement in certain instances). Dedicated and involved art department head. School spirit great. Zero tolerance to drugs and alcohol. Our two children who graduated are at top schools. Overall fabulous experience for our children and family. Beautiful, private campus for boarders and commuters.
--Submitted by a parent

I can't put enough words down to say how great this school is. My child was partial financial aid. There was no discernible difference in the way she was treated versus full paying students. The teachers and staff ALL care about the PERSONAL development of the students and show it in everyway. If you want a school that feels more like a GOOD family, this is your school.
--Submitted by a parent

Overall, academics good to excellent depending on teacher. Teachers could do a better job of responding to parent e-mails and phone calls. LFA has large number of sports and clubs for kids to choose from. School needs to work on diversity training for their teachers and students.
--Submitted by a parent

I am a bona fide Caxy, and I graduated from LFA in 2003; I had an absolutely amazing experience. LFA is a place where community comes alive. It is a laid back boarding school. Academics are challenging and outstanding, and the teachers are extremely caring and intelligent; the boarding experience allows students to become worldy and more cosmopolitan. LFA has a great mission; it develops each student's potential through academics, athletics, friendships, and leadership positions through various extracurricular activities. I was able to graduate cum laude and I serve as the class agent, participated in student council, edited the newspaper, served as a model un delegate, played two sports, served on the judiciary board, and participated in countless other extracurricular activities. I was well prepared for college; in fact, I find college (I attend Northwestern University) a lot easier than LFA. LFA produces leaders and solid citizens!
--Submitted by a student