PTSA Board Commends College Possible and the Annual Fund Campaign

The PTSA Board at its meeting last night heard about College Possible’s success at Garfield and that the Annual Fund campaign has raised about 65% of its $140,000 goal.

College Possible’s Kayoko Mathews and Lauren Kraushaar explained how the national nonprofit organization’s Seattle office annually helps with college and career plans of several dozen Garfield juniors and seniors. Nearly 700 Bulldogs have been assisted by the program, which is supported in part by PTSA funding, since it was founded as “College Access Now” in 2006. Students are eligible based on family income limits, and a simple application is required.

The strategies include:

• “Near peer” coaches, usually recent college graduates, who help mentor students on academics, test prep, college applications, and more.
• Continued support throughout college, including when students take time off.
• Emergency financial help.

Garfield’s College and Career web page includes further information.

In PTSA business:

• The Annual Fund has reached $87,000 (from 182 donations). To build on the success of the fall fundraising letter sent to families, Co-Chairs Samantha Steinwinder and Katrina Hawking are planning new outreach. They will approach nearby businesses that might be interested in recognition as sponsors of the Grad Night celebration or other programs. Anyone can donate right now!
• Co-Treasurer Mary Murray reported that PTSA finances are stable, and that about$3,000 in PTSA-purchased gift cards were distributed to families in need before Winter Break.
  
• Vice President Sara Dickerman noted the Building Leadership Team (BLT) will soon be making some tough 2023-24 budget choices, and also is planning a new round of Small Grants of up to $300 to some of the smaller student clubs. More info.
• The PTSA is planning new types of outreach to boost ticket sales for this year’s Grad Night, the PTSA-supported celebration immediately after the June graduation ceremony, said Co-Chair Anne-Phyfe Palmer. (Tickets are not yet available.)
  
• The Spring Fundraising event’s date will be either April 22 or 29, depending on a final choice of a venue that can accommodate 250 people. The event’s auction will include silent and live components, and procurement has started. Get involved by contacting garfieldhsptsa@gmail.com.