As you may know, one of Lake Forest Academy’s most exciting traditions is the Senior Retreat. Each year the seniors venture to a lakeside camp to bond and have an enjoyable experience. A lot of graduates will say that one of their most memorable moments at LFA was spending time with their classmates on this trip. For the past couple of years, including this one, the graduating class has been going to Covenant Harbor on Lake Geneva for their final high school retreat.
Covenant Harbor is a 52-acre piece of waterfront land located on Lake Geneva’s North Shore. There are multiple cabins for students to sleep in, as well as a gym facility, dining hall, \and many other buildings. They provide a multitude of activities, such as archery, rock climbing, pickleball, along with much more. Teachers on the trip also set up many fun bonding exercises, including a giant jump rope and water balloon fight. Erin English, The Director of Experiential Learning, and Health, Wellness & Community Department Chair, said that she “designed the retreat activities to blend intimate small-group sessions with inclusive activities that engage all students. From meaningful discussions among close friends to collaborative activities that foster school spirit, connection, and reflection, each senior the retreat leaves with cherished memories and a tangible keepsake, inspired to leave their mark on our school community.” Unfortunately, the seniors had to miss out on the water activities, due to a harmful algal bloom on the lake.
The teachers also made the controversial decision to confiscate students’ phones right before they boarded the buses. This was done to have students converse with each other for entertainment, rather than just stare at their screens. While some students protested, most agreed with the move. Emma Swanson ‘25 agreed with this rule and said, “I am so happy they took our phones.” She continued saying, “I think people would have isolated themselves more and activities such as playing cards would have never happened.”
Dennis Troha ‘25 was one of the senior students who went on the trip. He said that it was “more than just fun” and a “great way to connect with my peers and be physically away from school.” He recalled that his favorite moment was “sitting by the bonfire with the whole grade roasting s’mores and talking about our feelings.”
After the final closing activities at the camp, students loaded onto their assigned buses to head back to campus. Those who boarded the Infinity bus were in for a long ride home. On the bus, the air conditioning was broken, the heat was blasting in through the back, and the windows could not open. There was also a heat advisory in place making the ride even more miserable. Saige Chaseley ‘25 remarked, “I recall getting off the bus shaking, throwing up in a trashcan near the tennis courts.”
Despite the unforeseen bus ride, the retreat this year was extremely amazing for all the students who went, and it will continue to be a treasured LFA tradition.
