PTAs Strive to Build Better Schools
They say it takes a village to raise a child. One important component of Highland Park ISD’s village is the Parent Teacher Association. PTAs provide volunteers, generate extra funds, and remain involved in any possible way within a school district.
Park Cities People asked three PTA presidents what makes up a successful PTA and what the HPISD community can look forward to for the 2016-17 school year.
What are the key components to a successful PTA?
Lisa Kilpatrick, HPHS: The willingness of the parents to volunteer and take an active role in their students’ education.
Gretchen Groves, HPMS: Enthusiasm, professionalism, and passion to serve our schools are key components to a successful PTA.
Kelli Wagner, Hyer Elementary: The work of the PTA executive committee, PTA chairs, and parent volunteers are invaluable and exceed expectations.
Tell me about the fundraising process:
LK: The only fundraiser at the high school is Mad for Plaid. Because of the community’s strong backing of HPISD and our unwavering support for our schools, the community helps cover this deficit through donations to Mad for Plaid.
GG: The dollars raised during our general underwriting campaign, the Raider Challenge, will have an immediate impact in several key areas throughout MIS/HPMS for the 2016-17 school year.
KW: The Hyer Auction and Read On HYER events raise funds to continue to provide an exemplary learning environment for Hyer students. We have very generous parents at Hyer and throughout the district who are willing to help fill in that funding gap, and we are appreciative for their continued support.
How well do the schools cooperate with the PTA?
LK: I believe the relationship between HPISD schools and the PTAs is more like a symbiotic relationship. We have the same goal and the same priorities: the education of our children.
KW: The Hyer PTA is so grateful for Mr. Gilbert’s support and leadership and looks forward to building on this partnership for the 2016-2017 school year, which is themed Team Hyer, Go For the Gold.
What are the goals of your PTA for the 2016-17 school year?
LK: The HPHS PTA, comprised of families, teachers, administrators, and community leaders, is committed to working for our children’s educational success, health, and well-being through strong family and community support and engagement in our school.
GG: All PTA presidents and presidents-elect meet monthly with Dr. Trigg and district personnel to discuss district- and campus-specific issues and initiatives, fostering our mutual goals to best support and meet the needs of our students, faculty, and staff in their efforts to achieve excellence.
KW: Since the opening of Hyer in 1949, the Hyer PTA has been supporting the work of teachers and staff to bring the best possible learning environment to the children who attend Hyer Elementary. Parent involvement has always been essential to the success of Hyer and that tradition continues today.
