Claire Lynch

Junior Claire Lynch can do it all. Most know her from either playing together on the volleyball or basketball court or on the lacrosse turf. However, she is not only known for her athletic abilities. Throughout her three years at LFHS, Lynch has made her best efforts to befriend anyone who comes her way.

Lynch has been committed to volleyball, basketball, and lacrosse since her freshman year. She is a dedicated player and is always making other people’s days a little bit brighter, and her cheery disposition does not go unnoticed by her teammates.

Junior, Arianna Ranallo, considered herself incredibly lucky to play volleyball with Lynch this year.

“Claire Lynch is the type of person who makes every practice and game so enjoyable. Whether we are on the bench or playing next to each other in the game, she is always cheering and bringing so much energy to the team. Claire’s positive attitude is contagious, and no matter the situation, she never fails to brighten the mood. At practice, she puts in her best effort while having fun, and pushes the team to be better every day. Claire is the definition of a great teammate, supportive, positive, and always there to hype everyone up.”

Junior, Kacey Goodman, has recognized Lynch’s kindness and hardworking attitude throughout the ongoing basketball season.

 “Claire always has a positive attitude. She makes everyone around her have a great time while genuinely being one of the hardest workers. She shows she cares about basketball, yet she is always there for me whether that be on or off the court.”

Spending time with Claire is always the best; she strives to be the best version of herself while still making time for athletics and academics. One of her greatest qualities is the value she puts into her friendships.

Ella Nanini, Junior at LFHS, is one of Lynch’s closest friends, 

“Claire is genuinely the funniest person I know. She is the friend I go to when I need to laugh, or when I just need to talk. Everyone deserves a friend like her,” said Nanini.

Señora Tinoco

As an essential member of the Spanish Department, Señora Tinoco brings such energy and enthusiasm that makes every lesson feel like a celebration of language. 

Sra. Tinoco teaches Spanish 2 and 3, as well as SLA. There’s never a dull moment in her classroom;  she’s truly a funny teacher, and her class is always filled with laughter and enjoyable moments.

Sra. Tinoco incorporates a variety of games that help develop her students’ Spanish-speaking skills while encouraging them to think creatively and challenge themselves. She’s the type of teacher who refuses to let anyone fail; instead, she works closely with each and every student to ensure they’re fully prepared to advance to the next level of Spanish.

“I had Sra. Tinoco Spanish 3 last year, and I frequently stop by her room to visit. She always makes it a point to say hi and catch up whenever we see each other in the hallways,” junior Sophia Maffioli said.

One of the key units Sra. Tinoco covers sustainability, where students are taught how to care for the environment while practicing their Spanish skills by making posters. Oftentimes, in the warmer spring months, she takes her students on walks during the block days for a mental break from being inside all day.

“Sra. Tinoco is a great colleague to have! She’s been a very kind, welcoming person to me as a new member of the department,” Mrs. Ferraro said. “We’ve collaborated to create common assessments for Spanish 2, she’s really easy to work with and full of great ideas.”

Many students appreciate Sra. Tinoco’s attentiveness, as she regularly checks in on them and asks about their well-being. If you’re enrolled in Spanish next year, you’ll be lucky to have her as your teacher!

Krish Jindal

Tennis player, violinist, computer science novel, mathematician; all of these words describe Sophomore Krish Jindal. Krish is known around for his intellect, but beyond the accolades and top grades, Krish’s friendly disposition makes him a standout member of the LFHS community. 

“My favorite times with Krish are from when we went camping,” remarked sophomore Marcus Ridgeway. “It’s always a good time. He’s always cracking funny jokes and making intelligent references” 

Amongst other things, Krish excels at mathematics, taking AP Calculus BC in just his second year at the highschool. He is also involved with the LFHS math team. Math team coach and teacher Andrea Lemke can attest to his penchant for the subject: “Krish is a critical member of the sophomore squad for Math Team. He has an excellent approach to problem-solving: he demonstrates determination, flexible thinking, and the ability to combine disparate ideas into new contexts. He also takes the time to recognize his teammates’ good thinking and progress toward solutions which adds positively to the experience of other students on the team.”

Adding to his impressive list of extracurriculars, Krish has been playing the violin since the age of 3, and his skill with a bow is exemplary for such a young student. Senior Kashyap Prasaad praised the sophomore: “Krish and I have been homies since he came to orchestra. He’s a great violinist but humble as well.”

In addition to all of his cerebral and artistic pursuits, Krish also tackles sports– specifically tennis. Last year as just a freshman, he played an integral role on the high school JV team as both a player and a teammate. This year, Krish is looking forward to continuing to develop his game in the upcoming tennis season. 

Despite the numerous engagements that fill his schedule, Jindal still manages to make time for his friends, who hold him in the highest regard. When asked about Krish, sophomore Paul Helms responded, “He’s a light that brightens everyone’s day.”

Cate Lee

Over the years, senior Cate Lee has done so much to benefit her community. From serving as chairwoman of CROYA to being a key contributor to the varsity lacrosse team, Cate truly enhances the lives of those around her with her leadership and dedication.

As chairwoman of CROYA, she is responsible for ensuring that everything runs smoothly every week. Cate plays a pivotal role in reaching out to high schoolers and working to bring the community together. She has been an active member of CROYA since her freshman year, and her passion and commitment to the organization have been evident throughout her time there.

“Cate gives so much to our community in such a unique way,” said senior Michaela Barry. “She contributes so positively, and I love working with her on the CROYA executive board. She has done an amazing job as chairwoman!”

Cate also showcases her leadership skills on the lacrosse field. After making varsity her freshman year, she has displayed levels of leadership and dedication that few can match. Cate’s commitment to the team extends beyond her personal achievements; she consistently inspires her teammates to push their limits and support one another.

“Cate’s leadership on the field is truly inspiring. She not only leads by example but also lifts everyone around her with her dedication and spirit,” said teammate Lilly Walsh.

As her high school years come to a close, Cate has not only strengthened the Lake Forest community through her leadership but has also made a lasting impact on the people around her. Through her involvement in activities she loves, Cate leaves behind a legacy of service, dedication, and a spirit that will continue to inspire others long after she graduates.

Mac Atzeff

Freshman Mac Atzeff, also known as Matzeff Media, is a phenomenal photographer. He makes an effort to make it to as many games as possible. Mac works with LFHS New Media throughout the school year as he contributes to the video work for the football games. Being just a freshman, it’s hard for Mac to have a big impact in New Media, but that didn’t stop him from being a great contributor to some awesome videos. 

Mac is a funny, energetic kid who always makes people laugh with his charm. Mac especially impresses his brother’s friends the most though. “He’s a good kid and has a lot to learn. His quirkiness mixed with his knowledge of American jam bands makes for an interesting conversation maker,” said junior Cole Pezza.

Mac succeeds in learning about new music, fashion, and culture. A fun fact about Mac is that he goes under an alias… his real name is actually James. He goes by his middle name which is just another aspect of his mysterious aura. The word on the street is Mac knows how to shred; the kid is a man of many talents. Mac lights up a room when he walks in, and he knows how to make someone’s day better as he is a very down-to-earth person. “Mac, where do I even start? Another gem to come out of the Atzeff family honestly. His enthusiasm coupled with his eccentric nature is the perfect embodiment of a well-rounded, guitar-slinging, girl-obsessed, blonde-haired little boy,” said junior Maxim Cusack.

Mac is constantly trying to master a new song and doesn’t stop trying until it’s perfect. With the hard work and effort he puts into music, he will be a star one day.  “He always is grinding in the basement and making a ruckus,” said his brother, junior Teddy Atzeff.