Important Message from Dr. Lenart

March 9, 2023

Dear Students, Staff, Parents and Community Members,

Last Spring, the D115 Board of Education adopted the One Lake Forest High School Vision Statement. In doing so, there was a promise to ensure that every single student is seen, heard, and valued.

Recently, a video was circulated on social media alongside a narrative suggesting a specific room at LFHS is being used to serve a secretive and exclusive LGBTQ+ gathering place. This is untrue.

The video depicts one of several publicly posted and optional counseling sessions that are aligned to our One Lake Forest Vision Statement. These meetings offer discussion of a variety of topics including grief and trauma, are open to all students, and are not associated with any particular extracurricular clubs or activities.

This type of social media noise is distractive at best and divisive at worst. I am saddened that adults have once again taken to the keyboard and social media to portray our beautiful high school community, committed staff, and students in the manner in which they have over the last couple of days. The repercussions of the online activity have led to a feeling of anger, disrespect, uneasiness, and fear among many of our students. This is unacceptable.

Lake Forest High School offers support groups, clubs, and activities that speak to the passions, interests, and needs of our students. We stand by our One Lake Forest High School Vision Statement, which says “Our district is better for all students and staff when we embrace and value the diversity that exists.” I stand by a Lake Forest High School that lives the promises of One, and continuously strives to embody its values in our day-to-day mission and vision.

I ask that you consider joining me in condemning this rumor mill and online behavior in our community and living the values that all of our students matter and belong, and most importantly that We. Are. One.

All my best,

Erin/Dr. L.