Lakewood Middle School has been honored with the Civic Advocacy Network award, a recognition that underscores the school’s commitment to community service and civic engagement. The award highlights the many opportunities Lakewood students have to share their skills and knowledge through actions that benefit Salina and beyond.

Students have embraced service-based learning projects, applying their classroom knowledge to real-world situations. For instance, on Earth Day 2023, students cleaned Lakewood Park as part of a science project that incorporated lessons on the water cycle, biodiversity and human impact on the environment. The school's Student Council has also led various fundraising initiatives including a successful campaign for the Love Chloe Foundation.

The Lakewood Civic Engagement Club, now in its second year, adopts impactful projects focused on service-based learning and community volunteerism. Activities include participation in the Salina Fall Cleanup Day and organizing donations of winter clothing for local charities and schools. The club, working with Student Council, brought joy to residents of a local nursing home by delivering cards and candy, playing games and introducing them to puppies.

Lakewood's Civics Club sponsor, Chelsey Crawford-Cline, presented about Lakewood’s commitment to civics education at the Dole Institute of Politics on Civic Engagement during the summer of 2024.

“We are proud of our students and their dedication to making a difference,” said Scott Chrisman, Lakewood Middle School principal. “This award recognizes their hard work and also encourages us all to keep striving for excellence in service and learning.”