“The Finn Hill Middle School PTSA strives to strengthen the learning environment for every student, to be a relevant resource for our families, teachers, staff and administration, and to be a staunch advocate for the education and welfare of every child.”
Parents, Caregivers, Friends-
The Finn Hill Middle School PTSA is a 503c non-profit organization run by volunteers whose mission is written above. According to WA State laws, to be a non-profit organization, you need a minimum of four officers: A President, Vice President, Secretary, and Treasurer.
The PTSA is in need. Without a full board, we can no longer operate as a non-profit organization by the WA state law. By July 1, 2022, we need to elect a President first and foremost. We also have two Vice President positions that need to be filled, but without a President, that will be a moot point.
What happens if we don’t have a President for the 2022/23 School year?
I’m so glad you asked! The PTSA supports the school in many ways, but here are some of the main things that would go away:
· Student planners
· Field Day
· Staff classroom grants
· Library grants
· Staff volunteer support
· Staff appreciation
· School play support
· Alumni Scholarships
There are other community helping opportunities that would also go away including needs drives, pantry pack support, and Reflections art competition. We would also lose committees such as Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion, Special Education committee, sustainability/beautification, and emergency preparation.
On the surface, these may not seem like a big loss all on their own. However, if you get down to the nuts and bolts of it, your student’s day will look very different without the resources PTSA provides.
What do I get out of participating in the board?
You will be able to enhance your resume. A non-profit board position is valued as an employment opportunity. Even though it is a volunteer position, it is still a working position that is appreciated as a work commitment by a hiring individual. I have personally given recommendations that have led to employment opportunities for former board members.
Another main benefit to being a board member is the ability to decide how the PTSA continues to support the students and staff. You also will be the first to know what the goings on at the school may be. You will have a significant working relationship with administration, and you will also have a close working relationship with staff members.
The time commitment is a significant decrease compared to elementary school. This means that often our board is comprised of working adults and members who serve in other ways at the elementary or high school.
We ask you to sincerely consider how you can actively help the FHMS PTSA. If you or another of your student’s caregivers can offer your gift of time and join our board, we ask that you reach out ASAP for more information.
Thank you for your time and consideration-
Sarah Mertel
