And They're Off!

Yesterday, Facebook was abuzz with photos of the "1st Day of School".  What fun to see all the posts of eager Wildcats, from our little PreK cubs to our 8th grader 'big' cats - smiling (in most cases:) and decked out in new outfits and backpacks.  Despite the hectic pace involved in the transition from summer to school, seeing the students, and reading the pride of the parents in those posts reaffirms what the mission of the PTA is all about.  Although our group is comprised of varying personalities, and each person brings different skills to their volunteerism, at the end of the day, it's all about the kids.

Here is Tyler, Gaige, Sydney and Paiden displaying their Grades

I'll be the first to admit that when my daughter entered WCS, I held that stereotypical view that joining PTA meant helping with lots of bake sales.  (and I can't bake).  Cut out box tops? No time.  My eyes were opened after the first meeting when I learned of the incredible work done, much of it behind the scenes, in the form of giving time to run the Bookfairs, voting on and funding most of the transportation costs for field trips, hosting Holiday dances, preparing trays of colorful foods in conjunction with Wellness Committee events, and supporting Woolwich staff in countless ways; from helping teachers get kids organized for Picture Day to purchasing school supplies.  I also saw first hand (from the District Level) the cuts to transportation, facilities and supplies that no bake-sale will come close to covering.  (Although we do have very talented bakers in our mix...thank goodness!)

The most telling example of the good work PTA does came shorty after the Sandy Hook tragedy.  Despite us occupying a new building with a very secure entrance, the windows on the classroom doors had no means to block looking in . The WCS PTA approved 100% of the cost of having blinds made to cover the windows of every classroom door to better secure the safety of kids and teachers.

Mom photo-bombs the shot! Erica with Hollis and Peyton

The fringe benefits of being a member of the PTA are overwhelming.  New friendships and a sense of kinship are fostered, letting us all know we're not alone in this thing called "child rearing..."  Being a member does not mean attending every meeting or volunteering at every event.  It could mean lending some muscle and 30 minutes of time to move tables at our Shop-Till-U-Drop Craft fair.  Or staying after a dance to help clean-up the gym.  Perhaps you are a webmaster.  One member is a yogi, and gifted our staff with a yoga class during Teacher Appreciation week.  No matter what level of volunteering you can bring, know that it makes a huge difference.  We wish you a great school year! - please do email or reach us on Facebook with any further questions.

Lorna Ryan, Woolwich Central PTA