October 30, 2026

The 2026 Illinois Report Card highlights the continued strength of academic performance at LFHS:

• 88.8% of assessed students met or exceeded state standards in English Language Arts.

• 80.7% met or exceeded standards in Mathematics.

• 86.3% met or exceeded standards in Science.

• Student academic growth reached the 61st percentile in English Language Arts and the 61st percentile in Mathematics, exceeding the statewide benchmark of 50.

• Our graduation rate rose to 98.5%, up from 95.9% in 2025.

As the longstanding benchmark for state accountability, 11th-grade achievement has remained a priority at LFHS and our students are making substantial progress. Our juniors led all Board-comparable high schools in ELA proficiency (90.6%) and mathematics growth (62.2%). Year over year, ELA proficiency rose from 85.5% to 90.6%, while mathematics proficiency increased from 77.6% to 84.4%, demonstrating meaningful gains in student achievement.

These results reflect strong academic performance while reinforcing our commitment to continuous improvement.

Academic achievement is central to our mission, but we also recognize that preparing students for the future extends beyond test scores.

LFHS provides a comprehensive educational experience that includes Advanced Placement and dual-credit coursework, career exploration, fine and performing arts, competitive athletics, student organizations, and meaningful service opportunities.

During the 2025–26 school year:

• 95.7% of LFHS students participated in at least one of 98 school-sponsored activities and opportunities.

• Students contributed more than 7,430 hours of community service.

These locally tracked measures reflect the breadth of opportunities available to our students. Through these experiences and our Portrait of a Learner, we seek to develop critical thinking, effective communication, adaptability, empathy, citizenship, and confidence.

While we celebrate these results, we also recognize that strong schoolwide performance does not mean every student is achieving at the same level.

Not every student has yet met state proficiency standards, and achievement varies across grade levels and student groups. Understanding those differences is essential to our commitment to meeting the needs of every learner.

Our faculty and staff regularly examine academic achievement, student growth, ACT performance, attendance, and other measures to identify strengths, address learning needs, and strengthen instruction and support.

This work includes the introduction of Scout Profiles and our internally developed ACT Strategies Tool, designed to provide additional information to guide student learning and academic preparation. As we implement these resources, we will continue to evaluate their effectiveness and refine our approach.

Our goal is not simply to maintain an Exemplary designation. It is to ensure that every student has the opportunity to make meaningful progress and graduate prepared for what comes next.

The 2026 Illinois Report Card offers much to celebrate. It also provides valuable information to guide our work ahead.

I extend my sincere thanks to our students, faculty, staff, families, Board of Education, and community partners. Academic excellence is the result of sustained effort, high expectations, strong relationships, and a shared commitment to student success. Each of you contributes to that work in meaningful ways.

We remain committed to sharing our progress openly, listening to our community, and continually improving the educational experience we provide.

I encourage you to explore the complete 2026 Illinois Report Card at IllinoisReportCard.com, including detailed academic results and performance across student groups.

Thank you for your continued partnership and support of Lake Forest High School.