Ranch Reflections are articles written by students who want to share their experiences, thoughts, and concerns. This is a great opportunity for students to branch out beyond traditional news stories. (LAKEWOOD RANCH, FL) – The 2016-17 school year officially comes to an end for the seniors on Saturday, May 20.

(LAKEWOOD RANCH, FL) – Mustangs have just wrapped up state End of Course (EOC) testing as the 2016-17 school year comes to an end. LRHS Freshman Halle Bujnowski said, “I’m so happy EOC exams are finally over; now I can relax and continue on with my normal school routine.”. LRHS Sophomore Rheana White said, “I actually like testing.

(LAKEWOOD RANCH, FL) – In her 16th year of teaching, LRHS science teacher Tammy Harper was nominated for the Congressional Teacher Award presented by local Congressman Vern Buchanan. The Congressional Teacher Award was initiated by Buchanan three years ago to recognize teachers for achievement in helping students succeed.

(LAKEWOOD RACH, FL) – Third quarter report cards are available to students and parents on Focus. Students such as sophomore Sarah Merzak are excited about the online version of report cards. “I prefer my report cards to be online rather than on paper because it helps save the environment,” said Merzak.

(LAKEWOOD RANCH, FL) – The LRHS varsity basketball team’s season ended Friday at the Lakeland Civic Center with a 54-49 state semi-final loss to Tampa Sickles. Fan buses drove home filled with heavy hearts but the loss still did not kill their Mustang pride. “Despite the loss, I am still proud of the team for making it this far and all that they’ve accomplished this season.

(LAKEWOOD RANCH, FL) – Friday a fan bus is scheduled to depart at 11:30 a.m. for the FHSAA State Boys Basketball Finals. The LRHS boys varsity basketball team will be traveling to the Lakeland Civic Center to take on Tampa Sickles at 2 p.m. In the state semifinal game. To sign up to go on the fan bus, basketball fans should go to the administration office to gather a form and return it to school along with $25.

(LAKEWOOD RANCH, FL) – Tomorrow the LRHS Technology Student Association (TSA) will compete in the TSA State Conference. Thirty-eight students along with three advisers will head to the Doubletree Universal Orlando, FL resort and staying Wednesday-Sunday. “I am excited to go to my sixth TSA State Conference,” said LRHS Junior and TSA Vice President Holden Scarbrough.

(LAKEWOOD RANCH, FL) – The LRHS Parent Association (PA) is sponsoring a Spirit Night fundraiser 5-9 p.m., Wednesday, Dec. 14 at Tijuana Flats, 5215 University Pkwy. Twenty percent of the proceeds will be donated back to the PA, which funds activities for LRHS staff and students including: Parent Association officials urge Mustangs to mention LRHS when they check out in order for the school to get credit.

(LAKEWOOD RANCH, FL) – On Tuesday, Dec. 2, Lakewood Leaders will head to Daughtrey Elementary School to give students a day to remember. Members of the community service club will be guiding Kindergarteners as they decorate Christmas cookies, play kickball, watch a Christmas play, and open presents such as toys and necessities donated by students here at LRHS.

(LAKEWOOD RANCH, FL) – Mustangs who want to compete for the Golden Herald, an award presented to seniors who go above and beyond in their community service, must turn in paperwork by the application deadline of Nov. 17. The forms are available starting this week. Applicants must fill out the forms and complete a personal interview with a panel of judges from the business community.

(LAKEWOOD RANCH, FL) – Wednesday’s scheduled 2016 underclass picture day has been postponed until further notice. LRHS yearbook adviser Greg Klein said the re-scheduling was due to a clerical error. Some Mustangs were actually happy to hear about the re-scheduling. “I totally forgot we even had picture day so now it’s better for me because I have more time to prepare” said junior Faith Schyck.