Lake Forest Academy

Our experience with St. Mary Catholic School was unfortunately not a positive one. If your child begins their educational journey here from the start, your experience may be different. However, for families joining later or with children who require any form of academic or emotional accommodations, I would advise careful consideration.We found communication with teachers to be lacking, and there seemed to be minimal investment beyond the basics in the classroom. Concerns were often met with blame directed at the student rather than a collaborative effort to support them. For some families, this approach may work, but it was not what we hoped for in a nurturing academic environment.Our experience in the middle school also raised concerns around how bullying is addressed—or rather, tolerated. Additionally, while the current principal (as of two years ago) may be focused on the operational aspects of the school, we found him difficult to communicate with. When concerns were brought up, we often felt dismissed and unheard, with comments suggesting the school's limited resources as justification.If your student fits the mold of a high-performing, independent learner, St. Mary may be a good fit. However, if your child needs a more supportive, communicative, and compassionate environment, I would strongly encourage you to look elsewhere.Regrettably, this was the most difficult and disappointing educational decision we made for our child.