I have been a member of the Lakewood School District community for over 30 years, as a resident, a taxpayer, a parent of two Lakewood graduates and one child to begin school at Lakewood in the fall.  I have had the privilege of being a teacher and librarian for Lakewood School District since 1977. This is my community, my home, and I love living and working here. This fall I have been reminded that Lakewood is a great place by community participation in several venues.

First, our high school football team was an awesome force this year, taking the school to the playoffs for the first time in 17 years. This is due in part to the immense support of the community. This year’s team was incredible. What made it more incredible was the community’s focus on the school, the team, and the coaches throughout the entire season. I think Lakewood may be one of the only school districts around where all the schools wear the high school team colors. We wear them proudly.

Second, as librarian at English Crossing and Lakewood Elementary Schools, I have lived through incredible times in the last year. We took a K-2nd grade school and a grades 3-5 school, redrew lines within the district and transformed both schools into K-5 configurations. This was accomplished by the amazing work of teachers, support and facilities staff, many who worked without pay for countless days this summer. The people who choose to work at Lakewood are special. They give 150 percent, because they love this place and the people here. I’m truly proud of the people I work with, and grateful to be a part of the team.

Third, I recently finished running two book fairs during conference week. Not only were parents supportive in helping out, we sold a record number of books for kids to read and raising more money to help stock the newly reconfigured libraries. Seeing our parents visiting the book fair reminded me again how lucky we are to have such a wonderful community. My sincere thanks to the community for a wonderful book fair.

Molly Pearson

Stanwood