Dear West Ridge Families,

As we begin the 2026–2027 school year, I can hardly believe I am entering my fourth—and final—year as PTO President.

When I stepped into this role in 2023, it was never something I had planned. I had barely volunteered at West Ridge, but after two unexpected vacancies, the presidency found me.

At the time, our school community was still rebuilding after COVID. My goal was simple: to listen, to learn, to be fair, and to bring families and staff together again. There were many concerns about our playgrounds, educational support, arts and music programs, and how PTO funds were being used. I tried to hear every voice and help create a PTO that felt welcoming, transparent, and exciting to be part of.

Together, our PTO boards and volunteers have accomplished so much, including:

• Installing a $200,000 upper-school playground
• Bringing back Ladies’ Night Out and Parents’ Night Out
• Creating a five-day lunch program 
• Reinvigorating mini-grants for teachers
• Renovating the faculty room, Music/GT room, and front lobby
• Updating the PTO and sixth-grade bylaws
• Growing beloved events like Boo Bash and Fall Festival
• Introducing new traditions, including the Sweetheart Dance, Entrepreneur Fair, Candy Grams, Meet the Candidates Night, Donuts with a Dude, and the East/West Mixer

This position found me when I least expected it, and I will always be grateful that it did. It taught me to trust my instincts, lead with compassion, and understand that it is okay to agree to disagree. Most importantly, it gave me the opportunity to become deeply connected to this incredible school community.

Thank you for trusting me, supporting me, sharing your honest feedback, and offering your friendship over these past four years. I have met so many wonderful people through this experience, and I feel incredibly lucky to have served West Ridge.

Here’s to making this final year our very best yet.

Sincerely,
Caley Svensson