America recognizes Hispanic Heritage Month Sept. 15 - Oct. 15 every year.  According to the Library of Congress the observation started in 1968 as Hispanic Heritage Week under President Lyndon Johnson and was expanded by President Ronald Reagan in 1988 to cover a 30-day period starting on September 15 and ending on October 15. It was enacted into law on August 17, 1988.  The period histories, cultures and contributions of American citizens whose ancestors came from Spain, Mexico, the Caribbean and Central and South America.  Lakewood Ranch High School recognizes the Hispanic heritage of students and teachers during this period, and this edition of the "Mustang Ahead" podcast shares some of their thoughts and ideas.

Lakewood Ranch High School (LRHS) seniors have many ways to remember their final years of high school.  Traditions such as prom and homecoming are familiar across the nation, but some Mustangs have more individual ways to enjoy the year.  Creating unique memory boxes, parking sports and backpacks can help students celebrate their individuality as well as their academic accomplishments.  This episode of the "Mustangs Ahead" podcast highlights several LRHS seniors who share different ways to commemorate their participation in the class of 2026. 

The LRHS class of 2025 leaves campus with memories, accomplishments and awards.  As these 600 seniors step into the future, underclass Mustangs reflect on their relationships with these graduates.    Over four years Mustangs shared experiences as teammates, classmates and friends and now must accept different roles in life.  Mustangs still in school count of advice and lessons from their graduating friends, families and classmates to help smooth their own paths into senior year.  In this podcast both the graduating and younger Mustangs share their thoughts and feelings on these distinct relationships.

LRHS has some of the district's best teachers.  Members of the school's staff have been recognized locally, state-wide and even nationally, so it's hardly surprising that many staff members establish long-term careers at the school.  One group of high profile teachers are enjoying their ten-year anniversaries at LRHS.  Some of these highly-involved staff members share their thoughts and stories on this edition of the "Mustangs Ahead" podcast.

Mustangs are registering for their 2025-26 classes.  The school offers a wide variety of academic and elective courses, so students the choices students make can affect their LRHS experiences through graduation.  In this episode of the "Mustangs Ahead" podcast, Mustangs discuss their registration decisions and offer advice and reflections that can help fellow students pick classes that can help them achieve their academic and personal goals.

Two Mustangs hosted a civic literacy workshop to educate fellow students on the basics of American government and politics.  Julia and Melissa Bendramini invited Family, Career, and Community Leaders of America (FCCLA) juniors to learn more about the subject, afraid some students may not be ready to cast knowledgeable votes when they turn 18.  This was the sisters' FCCLA Students Taking Action with Recognition (STAR) Event.  In this episode of the "Mustangs Ahead" podcast the girls share their thoughts and goals on the matter.