What’s recently happened?
The junior class of 2024 sponsored River Forest High School (RFHS)’s A Royal Night prom on April 29. This event was hosted at Marquette Park Pavilion and was definitely a night to remember. Everything from the venue to the centerpieces to the little flowers that hung from the walls showed how dedicated this year's prom committee and prom sponsor were to making this year's prom special. The night ended with Darryll Coleman and Citlaly Almaraz being crowned prom king and queen.
Following prom, a group of students and staff made a trip to Six Flags Great America in Gurnee, Illinois where they enjoyed plenty of rides and entertainment.
What’s coming up?
Graduation is rapidly approaching for the seniors and they’re celebrating with a week of fun activities leading up to the big day. Firstly, on May 16, seniors will wake up bright and early at 4 a.m. for Senior Sunrise, where they will be rewarded with a gorgeous sunrise and plenty of treats. On May 17, the seniors will take a final walk through John I. Meister Elementary School and Henry S. Evans Elementary School, which many of them have previously attended. On May 18, seniors will be allowed to enjoy a nice hot meal and fun activities inside of the middle school gymnasium.
Graduation will take place in the high school gym on June 6 beginning at 6 p.m.
Seniors of RFHS are feeling nostalgic as the final countdown begins. Many are taking these final days to say goodbye to some of their favorite teachers, staff, and fellow students. The class of 2023 will surely be missed!
Staff spotlight:
Teacher Christine Barnes has worked at RFHS for a whopping 25 years.
With a passion for her profession and calling, Barnes has pretty much done it all. From starting as a prime-time aide for her first 15 years to building the Little Ingot Pre-K Program and teaching Pre-K as a specialist for the past two years. Throughout the years Barnes has also held numerous positions such as the high school cheerleading coach, working in Title I and Title III Departments, Student Council, Youth and Government, Senior Class Sponsor, Junior Class Sponsor, and Concession Stand Lead. Barnes continues to completely devote herself to her work.
“River Forest has always been about community for me, from servicing the students in our district, along with serving the parents within our community. Family is where it is at!” said Barnes.
These past few years Barnes has been the junior and senior class sponsor, along with the many other jobs she has taken on at RFHS. She made it her mission to completely devote herself to everything that she does.
Barnes is never one to shy away from a challenge. Many would say she is a character of all traits. Through the years she has found a passion for baking. As many students at RFHS know, Barnes Brownies have been sold at nearly every sporting event. Barnes Brownies started out as a small fundraiser and has made roughly over $5000 to help out with all of the things that students have gotten to do over the years. Barnes Brownies has gone towards things such as prom, turnabout, and other activities.
In her spare time, when she's not working with students or changing the lives of others, Barnes loves to travel. She has been to a total of 49 different states.
“I believe you only have one life, so make the most of it. I feel that if I can touch someone, whether it be a student or adult, then I have served my purpose here on earth,” said Barnes.
Student spotlight:
Senior Isabel Hernandez is the most hardworking student you will meet.
After graduation, Hernandez will be attending Indiana University Bloomington to major in Biology. Throughout her years at RFHS, she has taken as many science classes as she could and has grown to love them. After college, she plans to become a gynecologist.
During her time at RFHS, Hernandez has participated in spell bowl, academic superbowl, and NHS and hosted the morning announcements. While taking on many roles at the school, Hernandez has never shied away from putting in hard work and completely dedicating herself to her schooling. As early as her freshman year, Hernandez knew she was meant to be valedictorian.
“Keep working hard but don't stress too much. Have fun with your friends and continue to live your life. Anyone can be valedictorian, you just have to put in the work and be passionate about what you do,” Hernandez said.
Family has always played a big role in Hernandez's drive and motivation. Her siblings were always hard workers who pushed her to strive for more.
“My parents gave up so much for me and I want to do everything in my power to give them the world,” said Hernandez.
Cheer is another central part of Hernandez’s life. She got involved in sixth grade, and has been a part of the sport up until her senior year when she was chosen to be cheer captain. While there were stressful moments, Hernandez has always pushed herself and strived to be the very best.
“Cheer gave me a sense of community where I created strong bonds and friendships that I will miss dearly,” said Hernandez.