Jasmine Scott

Junior Jasmine Scott is known to make your day a little brighter with her infectious smile and laughter. Her positivity is something that her friends say can get them through a tough day. It’s rare to see Jasmine in a bad mood because she tries to find the bright side of everything. She is a caring friend who uplifts those around her.

“She is one of the kindest people I know, always saying hi to people in the halls and going out of her way to do things for others,“ said junior Olivia Niemi. 

Most people know Jasmine for her outstanding athletic ability, being able to excel in basketball, lacrosse, field hockey, diving, and track, but Jasmine is also a star away from sports. She is a determined student who is able to find the balance between athletics and academics.  

“Jasmine is one of the most driven people I’ve seen. She’s always challenging not only herself but also people around her to be the best versions of themselves. She constantly works to be the best she can, whether it’s diving, basketball, or track,” said Niemi.

Jasmine is well liked by many staff members at LFHS and can get along with anyone due to her inviting personality. Her motivation in school helps her stay focused and succeed in many different areas. 

She has an incredible work ethic from being able to maintain school, athletics, and previous jobs. It is evident that she has a strong passion for everything she does. Jasmine has a confident outlook on life and a strong future ahead of herself. 

People admire her for her humbleness and determination. Jasmine is constantly working on herself and helping others get better too. She is very encouraging and selfless in her everyday life. 

“I have known Jasmine since we were in kindergarten, and she’s always been so kind! Her great attitude always brightens everyone’s day!” said junior Lila McBean.

Jasmine has a big heart for everyone around her and loves spending time with close ones. Jasmine is a big family person and enjoys spending time with her 6 siblings, especially her little brother Tyson. 

Jasmine is extremely hardworking and never gives up. She is always fighting to be better in school and sports, creating high expectations for herself. It will be exciting to see what Jasmine Scott does in the future; the possibilities look promising!

Grady Gustafson

Freshman Grady Gustafson is one of those students who immediately stands out– not only for his many talents but also for his ability to be extremely hard-working and humble. As the third of six siblings, Grady is right in the middle, yet he still manages to carve his path and make himself known. Whether it’s his involvement in Boy Scouts, his dedication to his many sports, or just his ability to make everyone laugh, Grady is someone who is always fun to be around. 

“Grady puts so much work into everything he does but at the same time he is still so fun to be around and he always makes me laugh,” said freshman Oliver Sedushak. “As much fun as I have with him, he is also able to take things seriously when it matters, and he always pushes me to be my best.”

Despite his busy schedule, Grady remains a grounded and easygoing friend. His hardworking nature is balanced by his ability to always make people laugh, which makes him a natural in any group.

Grady’s hard work has been a consistent theme throughout his life, which his brother, junior Connor Gustafson, highlighted. “Growing up with Grady, I have always seen how much effort he puts into everything he does. He balances so many things as a freshman– soccer, track, Boy Scouts, school, and so much more while also still managing to have fun.” 

Grady’s maturity and responsibility make him someone that people can always count on, and his kindness and hard work are always appreciated by everyone around him. Grady’s unique personality and ability to balance sports, school, family life, and more ensure that he makes a lasting impact wherever he goes. 

“Grady has a smile on his face every day during class,” said senior Jack Walsh, Grady’s TA. “He never complains and always brings a positive attitude.” 

With his positive outlook and ability to handle everything that comes his way, Grady is sure to continue making a difference in his community for years to come.

Carter Ragsdale

Sophomore Carter Ragsdale is known for always being the light of every room. His contagious and bright personality guarantees a smile on your face when he’s around. You will never find someone more positive than him. You can always count on Carter to have a good time and he will never let you down when it comes to the aux. His impeccable music taste is like no other, and you will for sure be put onto a new song every time you’re with him. 

“He’s super positive, and fun to be around. He’s also one of the most relatable guys and I can always count on him,” said sophomore George Holland.

Carter is always the friend that you can turn to when having a bad day or just want to have some fun. He always brings the vibe and can make you laugh anytime and anywhere.

“His sense of humor, he always knows how to make me laugh,” said his friend, sophomore, Ollie Steiner. 

Carter is not just a great friend but he’s an even greater brother, “He’s the best brother I could ask for. He’s always there for me, he’s like a built-in best friend for life. We share so many of the same interests it’s easy to find something we love to do together. I seriously couldn’t ask for a better brother.” Said his junior brother, Christian Ragsdale. 

Not only outside of school, but inside school you see him with a smile on his face, always trying to make others have a good time. 

“First period is always so fun with him in it, and I can always count on him for help when I need it,” said sophomore Nate Robbins. Sophomore Nathan Tunny said, “He’s a super smart and chill guy, and he’s always there for you.”

Carter is one of the best people to be friends with and it’s assured you will always have a good time when he’s around. 

Anastasia Tegel

Senior Anastasia Tegel is the embodiment of an involved student inside and outside of school grounds. Whether it is at work, teaching Sunday school at her church on Sundays, or during practice for one of her many sports, you can always expect a good time alongside her hard work. 

“Anastasia always knows how to put a smile on my face, whether I’m having a good or a bad day. I’m very lucky to have a best friend like her,” says senior Lola Marsico. 

Tegel has been teaching Sunday School at her church for the past four years. She teaches them the proper way to pronounce their own Greek names, how to receive communion, and aids them in learning about the Gospel. Dedicating her Sundays to influencing little children and teaching them religious stories, she is leaving an impact that hopefully one day they could carry on. 

With Greek Easter around the corner, she is excited to teach the kids about how important Easter is for their religion.

As a senior, Tegel is stepping out of her comfort zone to new experiences. In the past, she had been the captain of the junior varsity dance team, now changing it up by joining the golf team in the fall. She cheered on her fellow teammates while also practicing for matches throughout the week. This spring, she will participate in the Track & Field team for the first time, and she is excited to make memories with her friends on the team!

“Anastasia is always there to cheer on our teammates. Even though it’s her first year on the team she is a positive force to everyone she meets!” says Senior Marisol Roeck, a fellow track member. 

You can also find Anastasia around downtown Lake Forest, commonly working at the local bakery, Gerhards. She started working there this past June, and plans to continue until she leaves for school. She enjoys hanging out with her coworkers and making a customer’s day! 

Next fall, Anastasia plans on heading down to Columbus to study Mechanical Engineering at The Ohio State University!

Mr. Matthew Wilen

“Physics is Phun.”

If you’ve ever heard this saying, you were probably sitting in physics teacher Mr. Matthew Wilen’s class, getting ready for a jam-packed day of learning and labs. Despite the class being challenging, Wilen always finds a way to make it entertaining and “phun,” plastering a large smile on his students’ faces.

“I always look forward to going to physics class— not necessarily because I like physics, but because Mr. Wilen always makes class fun and engaging,” senior Natalie Elliott said.

When students think about Wilen, they picture his funny spirit and kind soul. He challenges his students on the daily, but maintains a fair and understanding attitude towards them.

“Mr. Wilen is genuinely one of the funniest teachers I’ve ever had. He always tries to make physics fun and is always there to help us,” senior Rayanne Attar said. “Although I think physics is really hard, I do enjoy the nature of the class, and having Mr. Wilen as a teacher makes it even more enjoyable.”

Wilen’s co-workers also love his determined work ethic and funny personality.

“I really like working with Mr. Wilen. He’s a true physics “phreak,” even if he’s a Bears fan. Meh, nobody’s perfect,” physics teacher Mr. Matt Lowry said.

Wilen also enjoys teaching robotics, as well as being the head of the robotics team at LFHS, inspiring students and club members to perform to the best of their abilities.

“Robotics was a really fun class. There were a lot of projects and Mr. Wilen always helped a lot with completing them,” senior Tyler Cook said.

Outside of the classroom, Wilen spends his time with his wife and two children, and loves to play soccer and video games. In all facets of his life, Wilen is exemplary of what it means to be a fun-spirited person.