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As Lake Park's Lancer Way Committee helps celebrate November with an "attitude of gratitude" our school community recognizes many opportunities to give thanks. Students have been participating in an activity similar to "The Power of Positive" campaign that kicked off this school year. Classes have been viewing a short video followed by students writing something they are grateful for on a sticky note to be posted on a gratitude tree at each campus. The goal of this universal lesson is to help define the concept of gratitude and encourage students to identify at least one thing in their lives for which they are grateful.
Furthermore, this weekend provides an opportunity for Lake Park to thank our elected officials and provide special recognition as "School Board Members Day" is celebrated statewide on November 15, 2015. This annual designation was created to thank the nearly 6,000 elected school board members in Illinois and build a stronger relationship between school board members and the community. Lake Park is fortunate to have Board of Education members who demonstrate leadership, discuss relevant issues and make responsible decisions that best serve our students and communities.
Additionally, during the week of November 16-20, Lake Park will recognize the National Education Association's 94th annual American Education Week. The week is dedicated to celebrating public education and honoring individuals who are making a difference in ensuring every child receives a quality education. Thank you to our licensed educators and staff members who help support students every day!
This month has also included numerous examples of Lancers giving back to others through special events and fundraising drives, including more than $3100 collected by juniors and seniors in the community on Veterans Day to benefit the "Give to the Yanks" Foundation supporting VA hospitals. As always, I am proud of Lake Park's culture of generosity and helping people in need.
Our upcoming Thanksgiving holiday break provides students and staff quality time to spend with their families. Although the next edition of our bi-weekly LP Link should be delivered on Friday, November 27, the distribution date will be deferred until Friday, December 4, providing two issues next month to highlight holiday concerts, the end of semester schedule and more.
Thank you for supporting Lake Park. I wish you and your family a healthy, happy Thanksgiving season!
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The Lake Park High School Community Relations Office publishes the LP Link bi-weekly during the school year to highlight the latest news at Lake Park. If you have any questions or comments, please contact Sherri Anderson, director of communications, at sanderson@lphs.org.
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Music Department Accolades and Upcoming Events 
Congratulations to the Lake Park Marching Band for earning 2nd place honors during preliminary competition of the Class 6A 2015 State of Illinois Invitational Championships. The band also received awards for Best Crowd Appeal and Best Music Performance. In finals competition, Lake Park was awarded 4th place overall in the State Contest. The band has advanced to finals at the State Contest each year since the early 1980's.
Good luck to our students, Director Steve Pyter, and his entire staff as they compete this weekend against some of the strongest marching band and color guard programs during the Bands of America Grand National competition at Lucas Oil Stadium in Indianapolis. Track the band's progress as their first performance gets underway at 8:00 p.m. tonight.
Congratulations to Andrew Anderson (11), Ben Barbanente (11) and Alex Park (11) for recently performing in the ILMEA Choral Festival and Tori Kerfman (12) for playing clarinet during the ILMEA District 9 Band Festival. Results from the annual ILMEA District 9 Music Festival will be announced next month.
Lake Park's Band and Choir Programs have also been busy preparing for the annual Holiday Festival of Music on Tuesday, December 8. The special tradition continues of inviting all Lake Park choral alumni to take the stage and sing Handel's "Hallelujah!" Reserve your tickets early for this crowd favorite event that sells out every year. The joint performance begins at 7:00 p.m. in the West Campus Auditorium, and doors open at approximately 6:30 p.m. for first-come, first-served seating. Ticket prices are $3 for adults, $2 students (other high schools and college), and free for senior citizens, Lake Park students and children under 13.
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Theatre Department Takes the Stage
The first performance of the renowned drama Picnic by William Inge opened last evening, sharing a story of love found and lost, friendship, betrayal and family.
Support Lake Park's theatre department by attending additional performances this weekend in the East Campus Dice Auditorium beginning at 7:00 p.m. tonight and Saturday, November 14.
Admission is $5 for adults, $3 for non-Lake Park students; and senior citizens and Lake Park students are free. Tickets are available at the door or by pre-ordering at lptheatreboxoffice@lphs.org.
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Future Lancers to Take Explore Exam
Incoming students in the Class of 2020 are scheduled to take the Explore assessment test to begin preparation for class placement. Each student planning to attend Lake Park next fall must take these tests, which will provide the counseling staff with information about students' skills in English, Reading, Math, and Science reasoning. The schedule for each middle school follows:
Session 1- November 7, 2015
Medinah Middle
Peacock Middle
Spring Wood
Trinity Lutheran
Session 2 - November 14, 2015
Roselle Middle
Westfield Middle
St. Luke
St. Philips
St. Walter
Queen Of The Rosary
Students should report to East Campus by 7:45 a.m. and enter the building through the front main entrance by the flag pole. Parents can use the Bus Parking Lot in front of the main entrance to drop-off and pick-up your students. Testing begins promptly at 8:00 a.m. and will end at approximately 11:00 a.m. Students must be checked into their test room and ready to begin prior to 8:00 a.m. Unfortunately, students cannot be admitted to the testing area after 8:00 a.m. Each student should bring two #2 pencils, an eraser and a calculator. Please encourage your student to get a good night's rest and to eat a healthy breakfast before the test.
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Financial Aid Program to Address Paying for College
The Lake Park Counseling Department will host a workshop for parents called "Paying for College" on Tuesday, November 17 from 7:00 to 9:00 p.m. in the West Campus auditorium. The FAFSA, loans, and scholarships will be discussed at this informational meeting.
The featured speaker will be Mark Anderson, Associate Director of Financial Aid at Lake Forest College, a position he has held since 1995. His primary responsibility is working with incoming freshmen and transfer students. He is a 1986 graduate of Luther College (Decorah, IA) with a degree in Business Administration.
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Social Studies Movie Night Series Continues November 18
Make plans to attend the the next screening in the "Social Studies Movie Night" series on Wednesday, November 18 at 6:30 p.m. in the East Campus Auditorium. Students, families and community members are invited to this free opportunity to enjoy a historical-based film, selected by movie-goers last month during the series premiere. (Extra credit will be available; students should see a social studies teacher for more details.)
Europe in the Middle Ages is a topic covered by World History classes at Lake Park. One of the most beloved legends of this time period is the English story of Robin Hood. As students watch "Robin Hood," they will be able to analyze the many negative characteristics of the feudal system in Medieval Europe, as Robin Hood "steals from the rich to give to the poor."
Watch for more movies during second semester rotating between West Campus and East Campus!
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Comedy Troopers Return to the Stage for Improvedy
Join over 25 students and staff members who will participate in the quick-paced, laugh out loud "Improvedy" on Friday, November 20. This annual faculty vs. thespians improv show starts at 7:00 p.m. and will be hosted on stage in the East Campus Dice Auditorium. In the spirit of Star Wars, "The Faculty Strikes Back" by trying to overcome a 0-7 record from recent years. And back by popular demand: lip-sync battles made famous by Jimmy Fallon! With new and veteran members on both teams, the event promises to be another great night at the theatre. Admission is $5.00 and the proceeds will benefit Toys for Tots, a project of the Woodfield Area Children's Organization.
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Community Connection
Through a continued partnership with Glenbard High School District 87, Lake Park families are invited and welcome to attend the Glenbard Parent Series (GPS) Navigating Healthy Families. Programs are free and open to the public; no registration is required.
Tuesday, November 17, 7:00 p.m.
Skills to Succeed: Mastering the Tools to Thrive in a High-pressure Culture Now and in the Future with Ken Ginsburg at the College of DuPage in the McAninch Arts Center. Guests are encouraged to arrive at 6:15 p.m. for a Wellness Expo in the foyer.
Every parent wants to raise children who are successful, happy, hard working, compassionate, creative and innovative. To help parents, Ginsburg answers two crucial questions:- How do I give my children the unconditional love needed to thrive while holding them to the highest expectations needed for success?
- How do I protect my children while letting them learn life lessons?
Wednesday, December 2, 7:00-900 p.m. Glenbard South High School Auditorium, 23W200 Butterfield Road, Glen Ellyn, 60137
In this presentation Dr. Marc Brackett, director of the Yale Center for Emotional Intelligence, will review the research on why emotions matter and describe the theory of emotional intelligence and its impact on important life outcomes. Educational psychologists agree that emotional intelligence has more influence on a child's lifelong success than their IQ. Emotional intelligence helps cultivate happiness, and grit. It is the ability to manage emotions to become self-aware, form healthier relationships, overcome challenges and relieve stress. Emotional intelligence can decrease aggression, bullying, and enhance problem solving skills, empathy and academic performance. These skills are an essential component of every child's learning and lead to a more fulfilling life.
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ACT Exam Preparation Course Available
In preparation for the ACT test dates available next spring for juniors, Lake Park will begin offering a course in January 2016 to develop the study skills to improve ACT scores. In addition to English, science, reading and mathematics preparation, the course emphasizes test-taking strategies and techniques. Students will gain exposure to ACT testing situations, practice and remediation, and explanations about ACT style correct questions and types of answers meant to distract from the correct response.
Students can choose to take this course either on Saturday mornings, or Tuesdays and Thursdays after school. Registration before December 18 is $190; after December 18 is $210. Registrations are accepted until the January 4, 2016 deadline or until all spots are filled. View the course brochure for additional details and to complete an application.
The Lake Park High School Educational Foundation provides a limited number of scholarships to students whose families have a financial need. If your student wishes to apply for a scholarship, contact Sheila Finstein at (630) 295-5321 or sfinstein@lphs.org.
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Pride in Performance Winners Announced
Congratulations to our Pride in Performance winners for the first grading period:
East Campus
Academics: Kassandra Buff is an "A+" student who has a rigorous schedule including competing as a varsity swimmer. She has a great attitude, character and is excelling in all areas.
Achievement: Shiane Ralls-Spate is one of the most improved students of the year. She has demonstrated a positive attitude and become a leader in the classroom. Shiane is currently an "A+" student and was instrumental in organizing her peers to win the Homecoming Decorating Contest.
Activities: Brianna McAloon is an amazing person and goes above and beyond in many aspects at school. Bri is an athlete, Student Council Officer and took part in Lake Park's inugural "Make a Difference Day." She truly inspired many as she was seen in an interview receiving a hug from one of the residents she was visiting. The video went viral at school and served as an inspirational moment for all to see.
Athletics: Abby Rodriguez and Alyssa Sturino are freshmen on the Varsity Cross Country Team. They have pushed themselves all season and are consistently in the top three Lake Park finishers. Abby and Alyssa are always smiling, extremely polite and respectful, and are both excelling in the classroom.
West Campus
Academics: Sam Little is currently the top student in Advanced Placement Chemistry. He has earned this distinction through hard work and attention to detail. Sam not only balances school and extracurricular activities, but also serves as a model for other students. He is kind, helpful and has a great sense of humor.
Achievement: Gianna Mazeska has continually shown her dedication to Lake Park through her involvement in Lancettes. As senior leader and captain, Gianna has been given the responsibility of leading her team through the season, and has done an amazing job so far. She constantly demonstrates what it means to be a dedicated student and athlete. Gianna possesses many outstanding qualities, including her maturity, compassion and optimistic personality.
Activities: Sofie Defino is an incredible person. She kicked off the year delivering an inspiring message to teachers on opening day, has been part of the LPTV announcements numerous times and her teachers recently selected her as Homecoming Queen. Sofie cares about others without reserve and inspires everyone she meets.
Athletics: Skye Palumbo is an exemplary student and athlete. She balances her academic rigor with excellence, while achieving at the highest level in her sports of tennis and badminton having qualified for State competition in both sports. Skye's accomplishments are impressive, and she is a very dedicated and determined person.
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Employment Opportunity for Substitute Teachers
Have you ever considered working with high school students? Do you want to get back into a classroom? Lake Park is recruiting substitute teachers to serve the District in the same capacity as a regular classroom teacher during the absence of that teacher. The position is on-call; subs are paid a daily fee for services rendered. Qualifications include:
- Bachelor's degree or higher from an accredited college or university
- Professional Educator Licensure with any subject teaching endorsement, or a substitute teaching license
- Licensure registered in DuPage County (contact the DuPage County Regional Office of Education for details)
- Proficient with PCs, tablets, and other mobile electronic devices
- Demonstrated aptitude for the work to be performed
- Demonstrated aptitude as a self-starter who works with minimal supervision
- Effective communication, human relations, and problem-solving skills
- Strong customer service skills
Qualified substitute teachers are placed on a list of individuals eligible to substitute within the District and are contacted as jobs become available. Visit the district website for a position overview, job requirements and compensation. Interested candidates should complete an on-line application.
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Purchase Culinary Samplings and Theatre Tickets Today
 The Lake Park Educational Foundation invites you to an evening of culinary samplings and theatre. The excitement begins on Friday, December 11 at 5:00 p.m. at East Campus with an elegant winter taste testing menu, prepared by our culinary students. The Lake Park Jazz Combo and choral groups will provide holiday entertainment while guests shop for unique holiday gifts at the event's silent auction. After dinner, guests will be treated to one of the most beloved holiday shows of all time - "It's a Wonderful Life."
This event is anticipated to sell out, so reserve your seats! Tickets are $35 per person. Make your online reservation today or download the invitation and pay by check.
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Deadline Nears for Distinguished Alumni Nominations 
Each year, as part of its Spirit of Excellence Program, the Lake Park Educational Foundation recognizes Lake Park graduates who have distinguished themselves by virtue of their accomplishments in life. If you know of a Lake Park alum who deserves to be considered for Distinguished Alumni recognition, please complete the Distinguished Alumni Nomination Form and return it to the Foundation's Executive Director, Jennifer Jungel, by Friday, November 30, 2015. If you would like to nominate an alum but do not have all the information to complete the form, provide Jennifer Jungel with as much information as you can and the Foundation will try to locate the individual you nominate.
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Important Dates
Nov 13-14 Theatre Production of Picnic
Nov 14 Class of 2020 Explore Placement Exam
Nov 17 Financial Aid Workshop
Nov 18 SMART Day
Nov 23 Board of Education Meeting
Nov 25-27 Thanksgiving Break
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