08/12/2026
This time of year makes me reflect on how much our schools have shaped my experience in Park Ridge. For kids, school is where they learn, grow, make friends, and figure out who they are. But I’ve also found that school is where so much community happens for parents, too. It’s where we meet people, build friendships, get involved, and start to feel more connected to our home town (especially for transplants like me 21 years ago!). For me, getting involved was one of the best ways to feel connected to my community. Sometimes it’s simply showing up, volunteering, or attending an event. Those little moments turned in meaningful relationships and a real sense of belonging, and that resulted in life long relationships with some of the people I call my best friends!
As a new school year begins, I’m wishing all the kids and parents a wonderful year ahead. Here’s to learning, growing, getting involved, and finding connection along the way.
