Review/Update Winter 2013 - Lake Forest Academy

I am happy to report on such a healthy stateof the school, but I also want to emphasise thatLFA is always searching for ways to improve.Dr. John StrudwickHead of SchoolThe current and on-going events in the United States and the world make aquality education of paramount importance to today’s high school students. It isvital that schools and educators guide students in meaningful, challenging, andsupportive ways not just in the classroom, but on the fields, on the stage, and inresidential life. I am very pleased that Lake Forest Academy incorporates theseobjectives in its mission of educational excellence.As we embark on a new strategic planning process, and having recently celebratedthe 156th anniversary of school’s founding, I am extremely proud ofLFA. From a financial perspective, we are committed to balanced budgets andto using wisely every dollar we raise in tuition and annual support. In addition,the Campaign Update shows that we continue to garner support for the futureof the school. I am most grateful to all of our donors for their generosity. Inregard to facilities, we are dedicated to the ongoing improvement of the campusbuildings and grounds. The entire school is excited at the prospect of openinga new Science Center and upgraded academic space in August 2013. In academics,we continue to experience more competitive admissions and outstandingresults in college placement, both of which reflect the quality of the school’seducational program.On top of our challenging academics, I am also proud that an LFA education providesopportunities for a broad range of extremely qualified students, preparingthem to be people of character and responsible, global citizens. As demonstratedin the feature article, an active and supportive boarding school philosophy hasalways been the foundation of an LFA and Ferry Hall education. That philosophyis still an integral element in the LFA experience for all current students andfaculty, and it is a feature that distinguishes LFA from most other schools.I am happy to report on such a healthy state of the school, but I also want to emphasisethat LFA is always searching for ways to improve. Some of the questionswe are considering at present are: What are the best ways to stimulate and exciteall of our students in their learning? How can we continue to build communityand strengthen the non-classroom educational experience? How can we utilisetechnology and online opportunities in the most meaningful and effective ways?How can we ensure the safety and security of our campus and our students?As we develop LFA’s next strategic plan, it is important not only to reflect onour successes, but also to consider these and other questions within the school’svision going forward. In that way, we will respect the legacy of our institutionand secure its future. These are exciting times in the Academy’s history and I amhonoured to be its Head of School.letter from the head of school 3