2/8/22 – PTSA Meeting Summary

The PTSA Board discussed plans for an in-person and online fundraising auction, and staff appreciation events at its Feb. 8 meeting via Zoom.

The fundraiser is tentatively scheduled for the evening of May 7, at the indoor/outdoor event space on a top floor of the Murano senior living apartment tower, according to event Co-Chair Paige Stockley and PTSA Vice President Sara Dickerman. The downtown location offers spectacular views of Seattle – including Garfield – and is less costly than many venues. We know the auction will offer in-person as well as online options, but more details are to come soon. Help make this event a success: volunteer for procuring items or other tasks by contacting us at info@garfieldptsa.org

Staff Appreciation Week is May 2-6, and the PTSA is still learning whether volunteers will be able to be in the school to coordinate activities. In past years, the PTSA has organized food, flowers and surprises to show the community’s gratitude to the 140-plus staff members. New ideas and volunteers are welcome – contact PTSA Events Chair Daniella d’Louhy via info@garfieldptsa.org.

Other news from the meeting:

• Grad Night Chair Linda Casey reported that a contract has been signed with the company that arranges the activities and surprise venue for the annual sendoff of the Class of ’22. Tickets for the June 13 event will be available in late winter.
• Giving to the Annual Fund has reached $117,000, nearing its goal of $130,000, according to Annual Fund Chair Tracy Reed. (The PTSA 2021-22 budget is over $300,000, with other support from the auction and possible spending of reserves.) New Annual Fund leadership is needed for 2022-23, and Tracy would be happy to tell potential volunteers about the very flexible set of tasks. Contact her through info@garfieldptsa.org.
• Treasurer Mary Murray said that PTSA spending is under budget in several major categories, especially teacher stipends and small grants. The Board leadership will touch base with administrators about further publicizing to staff the support that’s available.
• The Board is assembling a Nominating Committee that will recruit 2022-23 candidates for President and other leadership positions. (PTSA members will elect the Board Officers in spring.) If you might be interested in a PTSA role next year, contact us at info@garfieldptsa.org.
• The PTSA hopes to provide translations of its materials in the top five non-English languages spoken by parents and caregivers. Board President Kayla Epting will investigate how this work might be contracted out to school staff, community members or professional services.