Held at the beautiful Memphis Botanic Garden on November 14, 2025, this year’s Lakeland Prep PTO Gala welcomed approximately 100 attendees for an evening that represented years of growth, vision, and refinement.
This gala has been evolving steadily, as the PTO has worked to carve out a meaningful place in the “adults-only” fundraising space—one that complements, rather than competes with, the long-standing success of the PTA’s annual auction. Over the past several years, the team has experimented with timing and format to avoid the rush of back-to-school season while staying ahead of the holidays. The goal has always been to create an event that maximizes fundraising opportunities in a way that feels fresh, relevant, and respectful of existing traditions.
This year’s approach focused on auction items tailored specifically to parents of teenagers, helping the event stand apart. Through thoughtful planning, generous sponsorships, and a well-curated auction, the fundraising team delivered the largest and most successful PTO fundraiser to date.
Organizers say fundraising at the middle and high school levels presents unique challenges—students are involved in countless sports, clubs, and organizations, and families often feel “fundraised out.” Because the PTO supports the entire student body, the full faculty and staff, and the school facility as a whole, the organization continues to adapt and innovate in order to meet the growing needs of the school community.
A key focus over the past two years has been preparing for and supporting the school’s first senior classes. The PTO’s Traditions Committee has played an advocacy-driven role, helping student organizations and school leadership establish meaningful high school experiences from the start. This included championing ideas such as:
- Senior parking spot painting
- Senior-only events
- Teacher participation opportunities
- Prom fundraising support
- Senior food truck days
- Class competitions like the Clash of Classes and Lion’s Cup
These efforts were shaped by early feedback from parents who wanted to ensure that students transitioning from middle to high school—while in the same building—experienced a true shift in culture and tradition.
The PTO also purchased a time capsule for the senior class, allowing students to contribute meaningful items throughout the year. Initially created for the first graduating class, it may become a new annual tradition.
Looking ahead, the PTO’s mission is to continue building strong fundraising momentum so it can support student-driven traditions as they emerge organically. A recent example is last year’s student council–led Color Run, a new tradition celebrating juniors moving into their senior year. Because it was a new event, the student organizers reached out for help funding the Ice Truck—and the PTO was proud to step in and elevate their vision.
Ultimately, the PTO hopes to remain a supportive partner—providing financial backing, volunteer power, and encouragement—while giving students the freedom and autonomy to create the traditions that define their high school experience.
