Reese Harper

Editor-in-chief Reese Harper’s witty humor and enthusiasm make her the type of person everybody wants to be around.

You may know her from her basically famous YouTube channel, Tik Tok, or The Ohio State Dance Team instagram, but most know her as a hardworking and outgoing friend. Because, honestly Reese can be friends with anyone. 

“One thing I’ve always admired about Reese is how driven she is. She puts her heart and soul into everything and it pays off. I’ve known her for years and she hasn’t changed one bit; she always takes it upon herself to go the extra mile to be the best version of herself. She works really hard to not only make those around her proud, but to make herself proud,” senior Clara Collis said. 

Dance has always been a vital part of Reese’s life that contributed to her work ethic, determination, problem solving, and gracefulness. From a young age she portrayed a mature dancer fueled by the passion for her sport. This passion carried over into her vital role on Lake Forest Dance Team and eventually her position as captain her senior year. 

“Getting to be captain with Reese was so fun because she made all the tasks enjoyable. Even the busy work. Reese always had a calm approach to chaos, which was perfect for keeping the team on track. I could count on Reese to have quick ideas and conclusive decisions when deciding on the small things revolving the team which was always the best,” co-captain Blakely Rice said. “Reese is a very easy going person, and will always listen to my random ideas. She was perfect to work with and has such natural leadership skills!” 

Reese has left a lasting impression on the team and continues to be a role model for dancers for years to come. Her legacy on the dance team is definitely not coming to an end, especially considering she’s a new addition to The Ohio State Dance Team. 

“I’m going to miss her so much, but I can’t wait to watch her live her dream on THE Ohio State Dance Team,” said junior Mia Konkol.

Additionally to her dance accomplishments, the Forest Scout was lucky enough to have Reese guide the way as an Editor-in-chief. The publication was run with enthusiasm, passion, and creativity thanks to Reese’s bubbly and outgoing personality inspiring the staff. 

“She’s definitely a perfectionist, but that’s part of her charm. She truly is one in a million and a hidden gem at LFHS,”  co editor-in-chief Collis said. 

Whether it’s at a football game, practice, school dance, or a weekend, there’s a high probability you have seen Reese with her vlog camera in hand. 

“I’ve always looked up to Reese as a dancer, so having the opportunity to be on the same team as her and creating a tight friendship has been a dream come true. She always brings such fun energy to practices- especially with her vlogging! Reese makes sure to capture every special memory, and her vlogs are so fun to look back on when reminiscing about old memories,” said Konkol. 

Grace Donovan

This fall, video editor Grace Donovan will attend University of Southern California, the number one film school in the country to study Media Arts + Practice. To put this accomplishment in perspective: They only take 15 students out of 12,000 applicants worldwide.

The remarkable journey to LA started just two years ago.

“Grace came into New Media as a sophomore, up for the adventure, and quickly embraced the fun of collaboration and creation. The fall of her junior year, they went to NYC for the All American High School Film Festival. Over the three days of competition and the next three of college and career exploration, Grace found her passion,” New Media teacher Steve Douglass said.

That trip opened Grace’s eyes to a new future, he said.

“She stepped up into the role of producer and loved thinking two and three steps ahead to make the experience better for her peers. Grace has always been, well, gracious and kind, but I think she connected that weekend she could do this the rest of her life. So she dedicated more time on her projects, but especially everyone else’s, learning from talented mentors around her, she recognized the key skills of producing,” Douglass said.

Grace participated in eight film festivals throughout her time in New Media, and she won the “Outstanding Achievement in Cinema” award for her silent film in the Chicago Student Silent Film festival.  The win was featured in the Chicago Tribune.

New Media  student Anna Daniel said that Grace is an “amazing producer.”

“Grace is not just an amazing friend but she is also crazy hardworking and talented, especially when we work on films together on different sets,” she said.

It was no surprise when Grace was given the opportunity to write, direct, film, and edit a 10-minute introductory video that promoted the 35 acts that premiered for a sold out audience across three consecutive nights for the Talent Show. 

“Grace is always amazing to have around in New Media. It can be really stressful and chaotic, but she’s there to get the set organized and make everyone laugh. In the classroom she’s always on top of it, helping others and doing great on projects!” senior Chip Bailey said.

Grace’s caring, hardworking, and loving heart carries into her service.  Grace is the Co founder of “Grace’s Gift Giving Drive” her Christmas drive for families at the church of Nuestra de Guadalupe Church in Waukegan. Where she and her partner help 150 people receive gifts for Christmas.

“Grace and I have been working together as directors of our annual Christmas drive for over 4 years now. I can safely say that she is one of the most kindhearted people I know and it truthfully wouldn’t be able to run without her,” senior Kat Yakes said.

Her annual work trips with First Pres in Lake Forest have been 50+ hours spent building a deck, fence, and re-shingling a roof. No matter how she is feeling, she has always been present making relationships with those she help as well as those she is working with.

 Grace year as Junior class president she fundraised, planned prom, initiated a gradewide newsletter, and established a food drive for North Chicago Community Partners. All these things attest to Grace’s willingness to not only lead, but do it with purpose.

“Grace is an effortless leader. Her buoyant personality, ease of engagement with anyone at the table and her desire to encourage and support those around her is natural and clear every day,” said Douglass.

Lyla Carney

If you see an amazing article from the Forest Scout every Friday, chances are it was written by editor in chief Lyla Carney. Lyla’s driven, strong-willed attitude inspires just about everyone on staff.

Lyla has become a beloved classmate and student in school.

“The best part was that she enjoyed learning; you could see it in the expression on her face, on her commitment to succeed, and in the products (whether in the form of a paper, project, or exam) she produced,” social science teacher Mrs. Flangel said. 

Lyla pours her heart into everything she does, constantly always giving more than asked. 

Lyla is also a crucial part of the Lake Forest Varsity Dance Team. Her motivation and humor make the team bond closer than ever! 

“Lyla is such a light to any room she walks in. She is always by my side to make me laugh even during the hardest of practices. Dancing with her was such an honor, and she’s the perfect balance of hard work and fun,” junior Maggie Jarvinen said. 

Lyla is also involved in Student Council, Scout Buddies, Student to Student, and NHS. 

Despite Lyla’s jam-packed busy schedule, she remains a remarkable friend, which her best friend can testify to.

“Lyla is one of the most supportive and genuine people I know. I truly have never laughed harder with anyone else. I always feel like when I talk to her she is really listening,” senior Finely Karr said. “Her support and encouragement does not go unnoticed. I am so lucky to have her as one of my best friends.” 

Lyla is a card of all trades and is truly a bright light in everyone’s life. She will be studying biology and pre-pharmacy at Boston College this fall and the TFS family will truly miss her amazing energy in the classroom! Go Eagles!

Mckenzy Hoopis

Mckenzy Hoopis is constantly in motion — clocking in at one of her jobs, heading to practice, finishing her homework before midnight, and showing up not because she has to, but because people count on her. 

“Mckenzy is such a kind and hardworking person. I am so grateful to have been friends with her for such a long time,” senior Maeve Farrell said. “She works hard at everything she does. Whether it’s school, sports, or work, she always puts her best foot forward and is so inspiring to so many people.” 

The Forest Scout has been lucky enough to have Mckenzy keeping the social media page active and engaging. If you’ve come across an Instagram story or post, chances are it’s Mckenzy working her magic behind the screen upholding our dedication to the publication.

Her peers say they acknowledge the hard work she puts inside and outside the classrooms.  

“Mckenzy is the best person to work with, whether it’s bouncing ideas off of each other, staying on top of her work, or bringing her spunk, she makes me excited to come to class every day. And it helps that every story or post she writes is so fun to read,” Social Media Editor Michaela Barry said.  

Her hardworking nature extends far beyond the classroom — it’s reflected in her work ethic, her sports and how she nurtures her friendships. One thing about Mckenzy is that she gives her all in everything so does — and she does a lot!! 

“Something I admire about Mckenzy is her faith, you can see it in everything she does.” Farrell said. 

Hoopis’s bubbly personality and caring attitude extend far beyond her friend group.

“Even when I didn’t know her as well at the start of the season, I would always hear her cheering me on no matter what. She would always genuinely seem happy to see me do well,” sophomore and track teammate Eliya Cummins said. 

Although she joined the tennis team this year with little experience, she still showed up and showed out, leaving a positive impact and legacy on the team. 

“Mckenzy has unconditional positive regard when it comes to anything and everything. She made both tennis practice and matches so fun. She is super easy to talk and get close to,” junior Vail Bayly said.  

Now that all her hard work and dedication has paid off, Mckenzy will be furthering her education studying psychology at Auburn University. War Eagle!! 

Ryan Valentincic

Senior Ryan Valentincic, a member of the football and baseball teams, brings his passion for athletics to his job as sports editor for The Forest Scout. 

Throughout his time writing and editing for The Forest Scout, Valentincic has assisted many of his fellow writers with story ideas, edits, and constructive feedback.

“Ryan is an awesome student-athlete. He excels both in the classroom and on the diamond, and I am fortunate to have gotten to know him in both areas,” English teacher Mr. DelFava said. “The hallways will seem empty next year with him gone.”

Valentincic’s love for the game is recognized as he leads his baseball team as one of this year’s captains. 

“Ever since we were kids Ryan has always been a very supportive and helpful teammate. His passion for the game has translated to his ability to be a great captain,” co-captain Bink Hartline said. “The best thing about Ryan as a captain is that he isn’t afraid to call out his teammates to make them better or to give his team some fire, and he always knows when to be loose and fun and when it is time to be serious.”

Both this year and last year, Valentincic was an integrated wellness TA, where he participated in activities, went on field trips and played both educational and fun games, all while forming lasting friendships and special bonds with the students in the class. Valentincic was part of creating a positive environment where making students feel comfortable and confident was a priority.

Valentincic is the first to set differences aside and create long-lasting friendships. 

“Ryan Valentincic is an amazing football player, and he always helps in integrated wellness,” junior Maria Alzamora said. “He is the smartest, kindest and most athletic person I have ever met.”

His constant energy and radiant personality is deeply appreciated by his peers. 

It is quite a challenge to find someone who is both genuine and fun, but also a strong leader, athlete and journalist.

“I feel like Ry V is one of the most genuine guys you can meet at LFHS. He is an all around amazing person, and it completely shows whether he is on the field for sports or in the classroom,” said senior Graydon Duncan. “I’m definitely super lucky to have known him for so long, and there’s no doubt in my mind he’ll continue to do great things at Clemson next year.” 

Valentincic will be heading off to Clemson University this fall to study data science. Clemson is very lucky to have a guy like Ryan V. 

Kallista Schneiderman

Senior Kallista Schneiderman brings passion to all that she does. From her academics to her work in LFHS Theater, she makes sure to have results that she can be proud of.

This has been something her directors have taken note of since day one.

“One thing that I love about Kallista is that she puts it all out there,” Director Sara Dreiling says. “And she gives it everything she has, and that’s been consistent from the moment that she stepped on stage.”

However, Schneiderman’s preparation for a show goes far beyond the rehearsals.

“Kallista is a director’s dream in terms of the fact that she does all of the back work before she even gets to rehearsal,” Dreiling says.  “If the piece necessitates something like historical research, she’s already done that.”

Schneiderman has continued to show that drive through recently finished through her final performances at LFHS in this year’s musical, Cinderella.

“She puts so much effort into all of her performances,” sophomore Rex Morrison says. “And even when she sprained her ankle during intermission, she still pulled through for the second act of Cinderella.”

Even though her final shows didn’t go exactly as planned, Schneiderman put on a performance that left everyone in awe.

“I went to see her on Saturday, and she was still so good,” senior Megan Lawniczak said. “You wouldn’t even know she sprained her ankle, you couldn’t tell at all. She was just so good and I loved it.”

Though mishaps during live performances can cause extra anxiety, Schneiderman worked like a true professional to keep those around her ready to continue on with the show.

“She was so perseverant,” freshman Jess Kavanaugh said. “She just pushed through, and she just had like a smile on her face that said, ‘I can do it. I can push through even if everyone is super scared. I can be a rock, even though I’m having this hard time in this situation.’”

From beyond the stage, Schneiderman brings her joy and passion to those around her. 

“She is one of the funniest people I know,” sophomore Nico Caputo said. “Anytime she makes a joke, I’m on the floor, laughing. And I just absolutely love her because she can lift up the mood in any room she walks into.”

Outside of her performances on the Little Theater and RMA stages, Schneiderman is a leader in the theater department and works to inspire the underclassmen and other aspiring performers.

“She’s a big role model to me for sure,” Kavanagh says. “I really strive to be like her because she’s just so happy and so talented and so sweet to everybody.”

Schneiderman works to make sure that everyone is welcome in the LFHS community and she strives to share her passions with the people around her. She has left a lasting impact on everyone she meets and she has inspired the people following in her foot steps.

“I’ve definitely spent a lot of time with her this year,” Morrison says. “And I’ve gotten to know her a lot better through all the shows. I’ve gotten to student direct for her, act alongside her. She’s a beautiful person and I’ll miss her dearly.”