Every August brings a fresh start. New backpacks are packed, school supplies are labeled, and families gather for the familiar first-day photo before heading off to another year of learning.

For many of the smiling faces featured on this month's cover, that first day marks the beginning of kindergarten at Lakewood Elementary. While it may feel like the start of something entirely new, these students are stepping into something much bigger—a community that will encourage, support, and celebrate them throughout their school years.

Behind many of the traditions, programs, teacher appreciation events, campus improvements, and memorable experiences that make our neighborhood schools so special are dedicated PTA volunteers. This year, we caught up with the presidents of Lakewood Elementary, J.L. Long Middle School, and Woodrow Wilson High School to learn what they're looking forward to and how families can become part of the excitement.

Lakewood Elementary is celebrating a milestone this year as the school marks its 75th anniversary. PTA President Shannon McKie says the celebration is about honoring the generations who built the school while looking ahead to the future.

"Our theme this year is A Legacy of Learning. A Future of Possibilities," McKie says. "We're encouraging every PTA committee to embrace that message as they plan programs and events that bring our school and the broader Lakewood community together."

The celebration began with the school's "Party Like It's 1951" float in the Lakewood Fourth of July Parade, and anniversary events will continue throughout the school year. For McKie, however, what truly makes Lakewood Elementary special isn't just its history.

"It's the people," she says. "There's a kindness and generosity here that you can feel the moment you step on campus. I love the small-town feel within such a large city."

A few years later, many of those same students will walk through the doors of J.L. Long Middle School, where new friendships are formed and confidence begins to grow. PTA President Pennie Marshall is especially excited to welcome incoming sixth graders from across the Woodrow Wilson feeder pattern and help make the transition to middle school a positive one.

This year, Long is launching its new W.E.B. (Where Everybody Belongs) program, pairing eighth-grade student leaders with incoming sixth graders to help them feel connected from day one.

Marshall says J.L. Long's greatest strength is its people.

"Our nearly century-old building is special," she says, "but what truly makes Long remarkable is the beautifully diverse and genuinely welcoming community of families, teachers, and neighbors who all share a commitment to our students."

She also encourages families not to underestimate the impact of getting involved.

"Whether it's attending a PTA meeting, volunteering at an event, or simply introducing yourself to another parent, those first small steps make school feel like home much faster."

At the end of the feeder pattern is Woodrow Wilson High School, where students continue discovering new passions while preparing for life beyond graduation. From academics and athletics to fine arts, leadership, and career pathways, Woodrow offers opportunities for every student to find their place.

"What makes Woodrow special is the people," says PTA President Jennifer Mira. "Students are encouraged to explore all of their passions, and our engaged alumni and families create a community unlike any other."

This fall also marks the arrival of new principal Alex Merritt, whose enthusiasm and dedication have already energized the campus community. The PTA is also introducing Community Partnerships that connect neighborhood businesses with Woodrow while continuing favorite traditions like Meet at the 50, where feeder-pattern kindergarteners stand alongside graduating seniors during Homecoming—a meaningful reminder that every Wildcat's story begins somewhere.

Although each campus has its own traditions and priorities, the message from all three PTA leaders is remarkably consistent: get involved.

Join the PTA. Attend a meeting. Volunteer when you can. Cheer at a game, performance, or school event. Every hour given, every connection made, and every act of support helps create the schools that make Lakewood such a special place to call home.

As another school year begins, the students on our cover are taking their very first steps into that community. Thanks to countless parents, teachers, staff, and volunteers, they'll have an entire neighborhood cheering them on every step of the way.

"There's a kindness and generosity here that you can feel the moment you step on campus." — Shannon McKie, Lakewood Elementary PTA President

"Those first small steps make school feel like home much faster." — Pennie Marshall, J.L. Long PTA President

"Once you're part of the Woodrow Wildcat Family, you're always part of the Wildcat Family." — Jennifer Mira, Woodrow Wilson PTA President