PTA/PTSA

What is it?

Parent Teacher Student Association is a major and valuable connection between school and home. A true and dedicated organization where parents, teachers and students work together to provide the best education and support for everyone involved.

Who's involved?

School PTSA members include parents, some students, most district teachers, administrators and other supporters. PTA/PTSA units are our primary sources of volunteers, and organizers of collective efforts to benefit the schools and students. Each school unit is represented on the district PTSA council. It sponsors community programs and Staff Appreciation Week, and is a support system for units. Monica Hacker is council president.

Why should I become involved?

Each school PTSA unit helps parents/guardians stay informed of what's happening at school and to be involved with the education of their children. PTSA groups are also great ways to stay connected to your child, to become involved in what they're learning and help provide a supportive transition through these difficult intermediate years. You will also have the opportunity to meet and socialize with many of our heartfelt, crazy and fabulous teachers!

Where do I sign up?

If you are interested in joining PTSA or are simply interested in volunteering in your child's classroom, there are a couple ways to go about it. One way is to contact Drum's PTSA presidents, Cheryl Cavanagh or Sharon Yergler, at 566-5660. Another way is to stop in, call or e-mail your child's teacher and let them know you'd like to be involved. Most teachers send home a newsletter or volunteer form at the beginning of the year, so be looking for that. There may also be parent volunteer opportunities in the library or computer lab, and we can always use an additional set of hands for special activities throughout the year.

Caution: Intermediate school urban legend

Many parents often feel as though their help is not welcome at the intermediate schools, or that as their child gets older they should let go and step back from their education entirely. Both are false. Drum staff welcomes parents with open arms and embraces them as a part of the school and community. No where will you meet a more friendly, reliable and supportive staff as the Drum family. While it is true that as children grow older parents must gradually let go, the intermediate years are by far the most crucial years in a child's life. With hormones in full force, the students need to know their parents are still involved and will be there to help them transition into an older, more mature individual.

_{District Office 3717 Grandview Drive W. University Place, WA 98466 Phone: 566-5600 Fax: 566-5607}