Lake Forest Community High School District 115 announced that for the fourth consecutive year, the College Board has awarded the high school Gold distinction on the 2025 AP School Honor Roll for excellence in college readiness.
According to a news release by LFHS, the AP Program at Lake Forest High School is designed to foster college readiness by offering students 21 course options across disciplines such as mathematics, science, and the arts. These rigorous classes offer students the chance to engage in college-level coursework and earn university credits through end-of-year exams. The program aims to equip students with the academic foundation necessary for postsecondary success.
For the 2025 academic year, LFHS demonstrated significant achievement with 601 students completing over 1,400 AP exams. This high level of participation represents 73% of the student body, with 94% of those tested earning a score of 3 or higher. According to LFHS, these metrics have allowed the school to maintain its Gold status on the AP Honor Roll for the fourth year in a row, signaling its continued progress toward achieving the highest Platinum designation.
The College Board states that the AP School Honor Roll recognizes North American high schools that successfully foster a college-going culture and expand Advanced Placement access. To earn Bronze, Silver, Gold, or Platinum distinction, schools must meet specific benchmarks for their graduating class: at least 40% participation in AP exams, 25% scoring a 3 or higher, and 2% spreading five or more exams across multiple grade levels. While no formal application is required, administrators must ensure accurate enrollment data is submitted to qualify for this annual achievement and its corresponding community recognition toolkit.
Lake Forest High School was established in 1935 as a public secondary school in Lake Forest, Illinois, serving grades 9–12. Approximately 95% of its students pursue higher education, supported by personalized instruction and a collaborative school environment. The school emphasizes mutual respect, high expectations, and a sense of belonging while serving the communities of Lake Forest, Lake Bluff, and Knollwood under its motto “Pursuits become habits,” according to Lake Forest Schools.
