Forest Bluff School

Learn about this cause: What are the reviews? Is it Legit? Do I like the mission? What is the CEO's salary?

EIN: 363188563 ✦ Lake bluff, IL ✦ Designated as a 501(c)(3)

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Overview

What is Forest Bluff School?

Forest Bluff School is a private elementary institution situated in Lake Bluff, Illinois, drawing its educational philosophy from Montessori principles. Serving the communities of Lake Forest and Lake Bluff, this school promotes a learning environment that fosters personal growth and independence in its students. By adhering to Montessori principles, the school emphasizes hands-on learning, self-directed activities, and fosters a love for learning among its pupils.


Official website here: www.forestbluffschool.org

What are the reviews and ratings of this charity?

Charity Navigator Rating: 54% (One-Star out of Four Stars)

Forest Bluff School has received a low rating of 54% from Charity Navigator, indicating significant concerns regarding its accountability and financial practices. The school only has 33% independent board members, which does not meet best practices for governance, and it lacks key policies such as a conflict of interest policy and a whistleblower policy. Furthermore, the absence of financial statements raises doubts about the transparency of its financial operations.

Despite these governance issues, Forest Bluff School does exhibit strengths in its financial health indicators. The organization has a low liabilities to assets ratio of 15.37%, suggesting sound overall financial stability. Additionally, a high program expense ratio of 84.57% indicates that a large majority of its expenses are directed towards its programs, reflecting a commitment to its mission.

Overall, while Forest Bluff School demonstrates a focus on its core educational programs, it needs to address significant governance and accountability shortcomings to improve its rating and build trust with stakeholders. The lack of proper financial documentation and policies could hinder its ability to attract support and ensure long-term sustainability.


This AI summary has been generated from information found on Charity Navigator.

Is Forest Bluff School legitimate?

Forest Bluff School is a legitimate nonprofit organization registered as a 501(c)(3) entity. Forest Bluff School submitted a form 990, which is a tax form used by tax-exempt organizations in the U.S., indicating its operational transparency and adherence to regulatory requirements. Donations to this organization are tax deductible.


Heare are some key statistics you may want to consider:

Executive Compensation: $198,555
Professional Fundraising Fees: $0
Other Salaries and Wages: $1,229,287

For more financial information, click here


Official website here: www.forestbluffschool.org

What is the mission statement of Forest Bluff School?

Forest Bluff School, as a private elementary institution, is grounded in Montessori educational principles. Its mission is geared towards providing quality education to the Lake Forest/Lake Bluff communities in Illinois. The school is committed to fostering a learning environment that aligns with the Montessori philosophy, aiming to develop each student's unique potential. It strives to create a nurturing environment that encourages intellectual, social, and emotional growth, preparing students for their future endeavors.


Official website here: www.forestbluffschool.org

Who is the CEO of Forest Bluff School?

Helen Lynn Jessen is the Vp Secretary Admissions Dir of Forest Bluff School.


Official website here: www.forestbluffschool.org

What is the revenue of Forest Bluff School?

Forest Bluff School's revenue in 2023 was $2,927,209.


Official website here: www.forestbluffschool.org

Who are the executives of Forest Bluff School and what are their salaries?

The average compensation at Forest Bluff School during 2023 was $41,995. There are 34 employees at Forest Bluff School.


Here are 6 key members and their salaries:


Laura Earls Smyczek (Head Of School)
  • Compensation: $110,000
  • Related: $0
  • Other: $0
Helen Lynn Jessen (Vp Secretary Admissions Dir)
  • Compensation: $57,125
  • Related: $0
  • Other: $0
Margaret Jessen Kelley (Vice President)
  • Compensation: $31,430
  • Related: $0
  • Other: $0
Mark Ahern (Director)
  • Compensation: $0
  • Related: $0
  • Other: $0
Ned Jessen (Director)
  • Compensation: $0
  • Related: $0
  • Other: $0
Paula Lillard (Treasurer)
  • Compensation: $0
  • Related: $0
  • Other: $0


Official website here: www.forestbluffschool.org

Where can I find the form 990 for Forest Bluff School?

Forest Bluff School's most recent form 990 was submitted in 2023 and can be accessed here.


Official website here: www.forestbluffschool.org

Learn more at the official website: www.forestbluffschool.org

Mission Statement of Forest Bluff School

Forest Bluff School, as a private entity, is dedicated to providing elementary education based on Montessori principles. Situated in Illinois, this institution serves the communities of Lake Forest and Lake Bluff, offering a unique educational approach that fosters growth and development in its students. By adhering to Montessori education principles, Forest Bluff School seeks to create an environment that encourages independence, self-discovery, and a love for learning in its pupils.

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Impact




October, 2024

Forest Bluff School significantly impacts the Lake Forest and Lake Bluff communities in Illinois through its commitment to Montessori education principles. By providing a nurturing and engaging learning environment, the school fosters individual growth and curiosity among its students. This approach not only cultivates academic excellence but also develops critical thinking, creativity, and social responsibility.

The school's emphasis on self-directed learning allows children to explore their interests and learn at their own pace, encouraging a lifelong passion for education. Forest Bluff School's focus on collaboration and community involvement helps to build strong relationships among families, staff, and local resources, further enriching the educational experience.

As students progress through their formative years at Forest Bluff School, they emerge as confident, capable individuals prepared for future challenges. Their experiences often inspire a broader impact within the community, as graduates carry forward the values and skills they’ve gained, contributing positively to society.




This information is meant to be a general summary of Forest Bluff School. Please take the time to review official sources before making any decisions based upon the content provided here.


Financials

This financial information is from Propublica.

Revenue
$2,927,209 (2023)
Expenses
$2,303,012 (2023)
Efficiency

Other financial information:

This information is from the most recently submitted tax form from this organization, which was in 2023.

  • Investment Income: $659,233
  • Program Service Revenue: $2,192,431
  • Gross Receipts: $6,539,125

Assets and Liabilities:

  • Total Assets: $14,167,663
  • Total Liabilities: $2,177,827
  • Net Assets: $11,989,836

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Programs

Programs are reported by nonprofits in their tax forms and are normally their tax-exempt activities.

Tuition and Fees

Revenue

$2,192,431

Organization Details

Founding Year

1982

Principal Officer

Helen Lynn Jessen

Main Address

8 W Scranton, Lake Bluff, IL, 60044

NTEE Category

Code: B24 - Education

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