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Author: Communications

Meet the People Who Make It Happen

Ever wonder who (or how or WHY) gets all this PTA work done? Well, we’re introducing you to the volunteers behind Whittier PTA — the real humans (with jobs, carpools, laundry piles, and group texts) who keep this 100% volunteer-run nonprofit functioning. In each column, we’ll break down what a specific role actually involves in plain English, how much time it realistically takes, and how that person fits PTA work into an already very full life.

We’ll also be honest about why we’re doing this. We are actively recruiting for next year’s board, and it’s not going well. Right now, Whittier PTA is missing essential positions for next year. Without people to serve in those roles, the nonprofit can’t legally operate — which means even if we raise every dollar, there would be no board to manage, allocate, and distribute those funds. That impacts the daily specialist schedule, our literacy specialist, additional nurse hours, Massive Monkees, and all the “extra” programs that quietly make a big difference in our kids’ days.

This series is here to demystify the work, not to guilt anyone. PTA leadership isn’t a secret club or a second full-time job. It’s caregivers like you — people who raise their hands, learn as they go, and rely on each other.

If you’ve ever wondered, Could I actually do that? — the answer is probably yes.

Learn more as we spotlight different roles, and if you’re even a little curious, reach out to vp@whittierptaseattle.org to see what positions are open and how you can help.

Aisling (Ashling) McCarron – Events Chair / Spring Fling Volunteer

Hi! I’m Aisling (Ashling) McCarron, mom to Marina (2nd grade) and CeCe, a rising Kindercat — watch out, Whittier! I’m an endoscopy RN (schedule that colonoscopy!) and I play banjo and guitar when I can. As Events Chair, I support the incredible volunteers who run Fall Carnival, Book Fair, Move-a-thon, and more — helping with planning, problem-solving, and cheering everyone on. The role ebbs and flows, with busier weeks around events and lighter weeks in between, usually just a few hours at a time. Being part of PTA makes me feel deeply connected to our community — and yes, I cried at Massive Monkees — because I get to help create moments that matter for our kids.

Brian Wold – Treasurer

I’m Brian Wold, dad to a 1st and 3rd grader, and I’ve been part of the PTA since our family started at Whittier. I began with quiet setup and cleanup roles — I’m a “see a need, fill a need” introvert — and eventually stepped into Treasurer. The job comes in waves: budgeting, writing checks, answering questions, and keeping things tidy usually adds up to about 5–10 hours a month. Most of the work can be done in short weekly chunks, which makes it manageable alongside work and parenting. It fits my love of numbers and organization, and I’m proud to support my kids’ school in a way that plays to my strengths.

Haydee Wali – Equity, Diversity & Inclusion Committee / Room Rep

Hi! I’m Haydee Wali, and Whittier is a choice school for our family. Our first grader is in the FOCUS program, which is what drew me to the PTA’s Equity, Diversity, and Inclusion committee. This is my second year working with a group of thoughtful caregivers focused on access, inclusion, and bridging general and special education communities. We meet monthly (in person and virtually), and the commitment truly works at your own pace. I’m proud to be part of a team that centers belonging for all Whittier students and families.

Sara Lukas – Hosted Parties / Spring Fling Co-Chair / Back to Business Co-Chair / Room Rep

I’m Sara Lukas — mom to Whittier grad Judah and 4th grader Ezra — and I’ve been involved with PTA since 2018 (!!!). I first joined Spring Fling because it seemed like a fun way to meet people, and I’ve basically never left. These days I focus on Hosted Parties, which is a lighter lift during most of the planning season but ramps up in the month before Spring Fling to several hours a week. PTA has given me as much as I’ve given it — especially community and camaraderie during these parenting years when the village really matters. Showing up year after year has created friendships and connections I truly rely on.

Katie Stiver – Ballpark Chair

Hi! I’m Katie Stiver, Ballpark Chair, and mom to Lauren (6th grade) and Molly (3rd grade). Three years ago, when the PTA was looking for someone to coordinate a community baseball event, I jumped at the chance — I love baseball and love Whittier. The role involves a few hours of planning in the fall and ticket coordination in the spring, making it a manageable seasonal commitment. When I’m not working as a NICU nurse at Seattle Children’s, I’m often volunteering around school. Being involved helps me stay connected to our mission of building a thriving community for kids, families, and staff.

Laura – After-School Programs Co-Chair / Spring Fling Art Coordinator

Hi, I’m Laura — Alexander’s mom (5th grade) and After-School Programs Co-Chair for the past three years. We joined Whittier post-COVID when I was craving connection, and stepping into PTA leadership turned out to be the biggest bucket-filler. I coordinate enrichment programs throughout the year — working with vendors, organizing volunteers, managing scholarships, and being on site to keep things running smoothly. Registration seasons are the busiest (10–15 hours a week for a short stretch), but most weeks are just a few hours and flexible around my part-time work. Getting to help kids sew stuffies, build robots, and discover new interests — while giving families a little breathing room — makes it incredibly rewarding.

John Shaw – Tech Chair / Spring Fling Tech Support

I’m John Shaw, dad to Imogen (3rd grade) and Rowan (1st grade), and I’ve volunteered with the PTA since 2022. I initially joined to meet more families — especially since we live on the edge of the Whittier zone — and quickly discovered a bigger community than I realized. As Tech Chair, I handle the website and technical needs, with quiet months under an hour a week and busier stretches around Annual Give, Spring Fling, and summer transitions. The work is mostly independent and flexible, which makes it manageable alongside a full-time job and occasional travel. Volunteering helps me contribute meaningfully and better understand the decisions that shape our school.

Kate Lindsay Scher – PTA President / Spring Fling Co-Chair / Room Rep

Hi, I’m Kate Lindsay Scher — parent to three Wildcats (two 4th graders and a 1st grader) — and I’ve been involved in the PTA since my twins were teeny tiny Kindercats. I joined the board sight unseen as Communications Chair, which tells you either I’m optimistic or mildly unhinged (both can be true). These days, as PTA President, I help oversee the big picture (supporting board members, partnering with school leadership, keeping fundraising and programs aligned with our mission, and making sure the nonprofit side of things stays functional and compliant) and the small picture (like creating agendas, fence signs, and meeting presentations filled with memes). The role runs year-round, with heavier weeks (right before meetings, end of summer planning, as event planning kicks off, etc) and lighter stretches in between — but it’s woven into my daily life in small check-ins, meetings, and a steady stream of emails.

I fit this into my already busy life (I’m a children’s museum designer/design agency operations lead) because I care deeply about what our kids experience at school every single day. Serving in this role gives me a front-row seat to the tradeoffs, challenges, and possibilities facing our community — and a chance to help make sure our kids get the best elementary school experience possible. It’s not always tidy, and it’s definitely not perfect, but it’s meaningful. And for me, that makes the juggle worth it.

Emily Schweiger – Outreach Chair & EDI Committee

Hi! I’m Emily Schweiger, caregiver to a 4th and 3rd grader, and I’ve served as Outreach Chair for three years and on the EDI committee for two. I originally joined PTA to meet people, and I’ve stayed because fostering belonging truly matters to me. Outreach focuses mainly on welcoming new families — hosting Kindercat events over the summer and organizing the Helping Hands gift card drive in the fall and winter. The work is seasonal, with a few concentrated hours of planning followed by lighter monthly coordination. I love helping families feel connected before school even starts and creating space for everyone to feel part of our community.

Megan Wildenradt – Website Editor & EDI Committee

Hi, I’m Megan Wildenradt, and I’ve been involved with the Whittier PTA since 2020, when my oldest was in kindergarten and we were brand new to the community. Thanks to COVID, my first several years on the Board were entirely online — but during those isolated days, the PTA felt like a lifeline. I served as Advocacy Chair for three years, which gave me a deeper understanding of how schools operate and how families can have a voice. When it felt like the right time, I stepped back to make room for new leadership, but I’ve stayed active on the EDI committee and now serve as the PTA’s website editor. With my youngest in 1st grade, we have many years left at this beloved school, and I’m committed to supporting it however I can.

I love the website role because it’s flexible and largely behind the scenes. Most of the work can be done independently on my own schedule, and while some familiarity with WordPress helps, it’s intuitive and there are great trainings available. The time commitment is light — typically under five hours a month, depending on what needs to be posted. It’s a small but meaningful way to help keep our community informed and connected.

Dafna Amster Kahn – Co-Secretary & Back to Business Co-Chair

Hi, I’m Dafna Amster Kahn, mom to Tamar (3rd grade, Baldi), and I’ve been volunteering with the Whittier PTA since last year when I started as a day-of helper at various events. After seeing firsthand how much PTA fundraising and community-building efforts shape our kids’ school experience, I decided to take on a more active role this year as Co-Secretary and Back to Business Co-Chair. As Co-Secretary, I attend monthly PTA meetings, take notes on discussions and votes, prepare meeting minutes, review financial reports for audit requirements, and help manage a few annual administrative tasks like renewing our insurance. Outside of meetings, the role typically takes about 1.5–2 hours per month, making it a very manageable commitment.

I balance PTA work alongside a full-time job as a general counsel for a tech company and parenting two kids by appreciating the predictability of the role. The work comes in small, planned increments every couple of weeks, and sharing responsibilities with a co-secretary provides helpful flexibility when schedules get busy. Volunteering has been a meaningful way to contribute to the school community while staying connected to what’s happening at Whittier.

Lunch Menus: February 2026

Week of February 2–6

Monday, Feb. 2
Lunch:

Veggie Burger or Cheeseburger with Fries (wheat, milk, soy)

Grab & Go – Turkey and Cheese Wrap (wheat, milk, soy)

Fresh Fruit – Pear

Tuesday, Feb. 3
Lunch:

Gullah Geechee Crab Rice (shellfish)

Grab & Go – Bagel Lunchbox (wheat, milk)

Fresh Fruit – Banana

Wednesday, Feb. 4
Lunch:

Pasta with Plant-Based Bolognese & Wheat Roll (wheat, soy)

Grab & Go – Protein Lunchbox (milk, soy)

Fresh Fruit – Peach Cups

Thursday, Feb. 5
Lunch:

Chef Jose’s Beef Picadillo or Plant-Based Picadillo with Rice and Beans (soy)

Grab & Go – Yogurt Lunchbox (milk)

Fresh Fruit – Apple

Friday, Feb. 6
Lunch:

Turkey Meat Lovers Pizza, Turkey Pepperoni Pizza, or Cheese Pizza (wheat, milk, soy)

Grab & Go – Soybutter & Jelly Sandwich (wheat, soy)

Fresh Fruit – Fruit Cup

Week of February 9–13

Monday, Feb. 9
Lunch:

Lemongrass Chicken with Steamed Rice or Vegetable Yakisoba (wheat, soy)

Grab & Go – Turkey and Cheese Wrap (wheat, milk, soy)

Fresh Fruit – Pear

Tuesday, Feb. 10
Lunch:

Jerk Chicken with Coconut Rice and Peas and Sweet Plantains (none)

Grab & Go – Bagel Lunchbox (wheat, milk)

Fresh Fruit – Banana

Wednesday, Feb. 11
Lunch:

Birria or Bean and Cheese Pupusa with Spanish Rice and Curtido (wheat, milk)

Grab & Go – Protein Lunchbox (milk, soy)

Fresh Fruit – Sliced Peaches

Thursday, Feb. 12
Lunch:

Beef Chili with Honey Cornbread (served with chili toppings) (wheat, milk)

Grab & Go – Yogurt Lunchbox (milk)

Fresh Fruit – Apple

Friday, Feb. 13
Lunch:

Sweet Chili Glazed Chicken Wings or Plant-Based Bulgogi “Beef” with Kimchi Fried Rice and Teriyaki Chicken Bao (wheat, soy, milk)

Grab & Go – Soybutter & Jelly Sandwich (wheat, soy)

Fresh Fruit – Mixed Fruit

Week of February 16–20

Monday, Feb. 16
NO SCHOOL – Presidents Day / Mid-Winter Break

Tuesday, Feb. 17 – Chinese New Year – Year of the Horse


NO SCHOOL – Mid-Winter Break

Wednesday, Feb. 18
NO SCHOOL – Mid-Winter Break

Thursday, Feb. 19
NO SCHOOL – Mid-Winter Break

Friday, Feb. 20
NO SCHOOL – Mid-Winter Break

Week of February 23–27

Monday, Feb. 23
Lunch:

Ciabatta Cheese Melt with Tomato Soup (wheat, milk)

Grab & Go – Turkey and Cheese Wrap (wheat, milk, soy)

Fresh Fruit – Pear

Tuesday, Feb. 24
Lunch:

Creamy Cajun Pasta with or without Chicken and Wheat Roll (wheat, milk)

Grab & Go – Bagel Lunchbox (wheat, milk)

Fresh Fruit – Banana

Wednesday, Feb. 25
Lunch:

BBQ Brisket, Mac and Cheese, and Collard Greens (milk)

Grab & Go – Protein Lunchbox (milk, soy)

Fresh Fruit – Sliced Peaches

Thursday, Feb. 26
Lunch:

Chef Melissa’s Chicken Adobo with Steamed Rice or Roasted Vegetables with Quinoa (soy)

Grab & Go – Yogurt Lunchbox (milk)

Fresh Fruit – Apple

Friday, Feb. 27
Lunch:

Chicken and Waffles (wheat, egg, milk, soy)

Grab & Go – Soybutter & Jelly Sandwich (wheat, soy)

Fresh Fruit – Mixed Fruit

PTA Meeting Agenda (Feb 2026)

Whittier PTA Meeting Agenda

  • February 10, 2026
  • Whittier Library & Zoom (passcode: wildcats)
  • 7:00pm

Agenda

7:00-7:05pm – Welcome & Call To Order

  • Call to Order
  • Table & Zoom Chat Informal Introductions

7:05-7:15pm – President Update

  • Brief PTA Overview (volunteer slate, goals, how PTA meetings work, this month’s to dos, work cadence summary)
  • Dashboard
  • Become a PTA Member
  • Volunteer Opportunities
  • Family Dance & Game Night Update
  • Updates & Discussion on Community Safety
  • 2026-2027 PTA President Reminder
  • Revised Role Recommendations for 2026-2027

7:15-7:30pm – Update from Principal Watters

7:30-7:50pm – Belonging Practice

7:50-8:10pm – Chair Updates

  • Event Update: Kraken, Move-a-thon
  • Secretary: January meeting minutes
  • Treasurer Report & Revised Budget & Budget Committee
  • VP: Reflections Art Contest, Nom Com Update
  • Spring Fling Chairs: Event Updates
  • Programs Update
  • Legislative Rep: Funding Talk
  • Hospitality: January Appreciation Report, March Appreciation plan

8:10-8:15pm – Voting

8:15-8:20pm – Kudos & Thank Yous

  • Spring Fling team – Planning and so much other stuff!
  • Brian – Checks & Check Signing & Revised Budget
  • Megan – Website Updates
  • Hospitality – January appreciation
  • Laura & Natalie – Programs volunteering and winter programs coordination!
  • Ellen & Andrew – Wildchat!
  • Secretary – Minutes! Minutes!
  • Move-a-thon Chairs – Planning!!
  • Anika – Reflections Art Contest
  • Nom Com team – work on 2026-2027 board recruitment
  • John – (the tech support never ends)
  • (Did we miss someone? Contact president@whittierptaseattle.org!)

8:20-8:30pm – Open Floor for Community

8:30pm – Adjourn

Post-Meeting Gathering at Phinney Station

Resources

PTA Meeting Agenda (January 2026)

Whittier PTA Monthly Meeting

  • January 13, 2026
  • Whittier Library & Zoom (passcode: wildcats)
  • 7:30pm

Agenda

7:30-7:35pm – Welcome & Call To Order

  • Call to Order
  • Table & Zoom Chat Informal Introductions

7:35-7:45pm – President Update

7:45-7:55pm – Update from Principal Watters

7:55-8:15pm – Chair Updates

  • Event Reviews: Ice Skating, Book Fair
  • Event Update: Kraken, Family Dance & Game Night, Move-a-thon
  • Secretary: November meeting minutes
  • Treasurer Report & Budget Update
  • Outreach: Helping Hands Report
  • Fundraising: Day of Giving results, Annual Give updated totals
  • VP: Reflections Art Contest, Nom Com Update
  • Spring Fling Chairs: Event Updates
  • Programs Update
  • Legislative Rep: Funding Talk
  • Hospitality: November Appreciation Report, January Appreciation

8:15-8:25pm – Community Survey Results

8:25-8:30pm – Voting

8:25-8:30pm – Kudos & Thank Yous

  • Bonnie & Event Volunteers – Ice Skating!!
  • Snigdha & Volunteers – Book Fair!!
  • Emily – Helping Hands coordination!
  • Brian – Checks & Check Signing
  • Megan – Website Updates
  • Hospitality – November appreciation
  • Laura & Natalie – Programs volunteering and winter programs coordination!
  • Ellen & Andrew – Wildchat!
  • Renee & Allie – Annual Give
  • Anika – Reflections Art Contest
  • John – (the tech support never ends)
  • (Did we miss someone? Contact president@whittierptaseattle.org!)

8:30pm – Adjourn

Post-Meeting Gathering at Phinney Station

Resources

Breakfast and Lunch Menus: January 2026

Week of Jan. 5–9

Monday, Jan. 5

Lunch:
Chicken Teriyaki (soy, wheat);
or Turkey & Cheese Wrap (milk, wheat);
with Apple

Tuesday, Jan. 6

Lunch:
Shredded Beef Burrito (wheat, milk);
or Sunbutter & Jelly Sandwich (sunflower, wheat);
with Orange

Wednesday, Jan. 7

Lunch:
Pasta with Beef Bolognese & Wheat Roll (wheat, milk, soy);
or Turkey & Cheese Sub Sandwich (milk, wheat);
with Pear

Thursday, Jan. 8

Lunch:
Crispy Chicken Sandwich with Fries (wheat, egg, soy);
or Bagel Lunchbox (wheat, milk);
with Apple

Friday, Jan. 9

Lunch:
Ciabatta Cheese Melt with Tomato Soup (milk, wheat, soy);
or Yogurt Lunchbox (milk, wheat);
with Fruit Cup

Week of Jan. 12–16

Monday, Jan. 12

Lunch:
Lemongrass Chicken with Steamed Rice (soy)
or Vegetable Yakisoba (wheat, soy);
or Turkey & Cheese Wrap (milk, wheat);
with Pear

Tuesday, Jan. 13

Lunch:
Butter Chicken (milk)
or Vegetable Samosas (wheat) with Steamed Rice;
or Bagel Lunchbox (wheat, milk);
with Banana

Wednesday, Jan. 14

Lunch:
Birria (milk)
or Bean & Cheese Pupusa (milk, wheat) with Spanish Rice & Curtido;
or Protein Lunchbox (milk, soy);
with Sliced Peaches

Thursday, Jan. 15

Lunch:
Beef Chili with Honey Cornbread (wheat, milk);
or Yogurt Lunchbox (milk);
with Apple

Friday, Jan. 16

Lunch:
Sweet Chili Glazed Chicken Wings (soy, wheat)
or Plant-Based Bulgogi “Beef” (soy) with Kimchi Fried Rice (soy);
or Sunbutter & Jelly Sandwich (sunflower, wheat);
with Mixed Fruit

Week of Jan. 19–23

Monday, Jan. 19
NO SCHOOL – Martin Luther King Jr. Day

Tuesday, Jan. 20

Lunch:
Salmon Escabeche with Rice & Beans (fish);
or Bagel Lunchbox (wheat, milk);
with Banana

Wednesday, Jan. 21

Lunch:
Creamy Pesto Pasta with Garlic Bread (milk, wheat, tree nut);
or Protein Lunchbox (milk, soy);
with Sliced Peaches

Thursday, Jan. 22

Lunch:
Vegetable Pozole with Tortillas (wheat);
or Yogurt Lunchbox (milk);
with Apple

Friday, Jan. 23

Lunch:
Cheese Pizza (milk, wheat, soy)
or Turkey Supreme Pizza (milk, wheat, soy);
or Sunbutter & Jelly Sandwich (sunflower, wheat);
with Mixed Fruit

Week of Jan. 26–30

Monday, Jan. 26

Lunch:
Ciabatta Cheese Melt with Tomato Soup (milk, wheat, soy);
or Turkey & Cheese Wrap (milk, wheat);
with Pear

Tuesday, Jan. 27

Lunch:
Creamy Cajun Pasta with or without Chicken & Wheat Roll (milk, wheat, soy);
or Bagel Lunchbox (wheat, milk);
with Banana

Wednesday, Jan. 28

Lunch:
BBQ Brisket, Mac & Cheese, and Collard Greens (milk, wheat, soy);
or Protein Lunchbox (milk, soy);
with Sliced Peaches

Thursday, Jan. 29

Lunch:
Chicken Adobo with Steamed Rice (soy)
or Roasted Vegetables with Quinoa (no major allergens);
or Yogurt Lunchbox (milk);
with Apple

Friday, Jan. 30

Lunch:
Chicken and Waffles (egg, milk, wheat, soy);
or Sunbutter & Jelly Sandwich (sunflower, wheat);
with Mixed Fruit

Breakfast and Lunch Menus: December 2025

Week of Dec. 1-5

Monday, Dec. 1

Breakfast:
Scrambled Eggs, French Toast, Hashbrown;
or English Muffin w/ Egg Patty & Cheese – (egg, dairy, wheat, sesame, soy);
or Assorted Cereal (Wheat).

Lunch:
Chicken Tenders (soy, egg, wheat); Glazed Carrots; Fries;
or Wowbutter & Jelly (soy, wheat, sesame, dairy);
with Salad Bar (possible sesame, dairy) and Apple.

Tuesday, Dec. 2

Breakfast:
Blueberry Muffin;
or Bagel w/ Cream Cheese (egg, soy, dairy, wheat, sesame);
or Assorted Cereal (Wheat).

Lunch:
Chicken Mole & Corn Arepas – (egg, soy, milk);
or Turkey & Cheese Wrap (wheat, dairy, sesame);
with Spanish Rice (soy), Beans, Salad Bar (possible sesame, dairy), and Orange.

Wednesday, Dec. 3

Breakfast:
Scrambled Eggs, French Toast, Hashbrown;
or English Muffin w/ Egg Patty & Cheese (egg, dairy, wheat, sesame, soy);
or Mini Football Pancake Bites (soy, milk, egg, wheat);
or Assorted Cereal (Wheat).

Lunch:
Hot Dog (soy, wheat, sesame); Tots;
or Turkey Sub Sandwich (gluten, dairy, sesame, soy);
with Salad Bar (possible sesame, dairy) and Pear.

Thursday, Dec. 4

Breakfast:
Chocolate Muffin;
or English Muffin w/ Butter (wheat, sesame, dairy, soy);
or Assorted Cereal (Wheat).

Lunch:
Teriyaki Chicken w/ Yakisoba (gluten, soy, sesame, corn);
or Bagel Lunchbox (dairy, gluten, sesame, soy);
with Salad Bar (possible sesame, dairy) and Apple.

Friday, Dec. 5

Breakfast:
Assorted Cereal (Wheat).

Lunch:
Drumstick (sub Chicken Wings: wheat); Mashed Potatoes (soy, dairy); Corn on the Cob;
or Yogurt (dairy, gluten, soy);
with Salad Bar (possible sesame, dairy) and Fruit Cup.

Week of Dec. 8-12

Monday, Dec. 8

Breakfast:
Scrambled Eggs, French Toast, Hashbrown (egg, wheat, soy);
or Assorted Cereal (Wheat).

Lunch:
Cheese Pizza (wheat, dairy);
or Turkey Meat Eaters Pizza (wheat, dairy);
with Salad Bar (possible sesame, dairy) and Apple.

Tuesday, Dec. 9

Breakfast:
Bagel w/ Cream Cheese (sesame, gluten, dairy);
or Assorted Cereal (Wheat).

Lunch:
Pasta Marinara (wheat, dairy);
or Beef or Plant-Based Entrée;
with WW Roll (wheat, sesame), Salad Bar (possible sesame, dairy), and Orange.

Wednesday, Dec. 10

Breakfast:
Scrambled Eggs, French Toast, Hashbrown;
or English Muffin w/ Egg Patty & Cheese (egg, dairy, wheat, sesame, soy);
or Mini Football Pancake Bites (soy, milk, egg, wheat);
or Assorted Cereal (Wheat).

Lunch:
Cheese Burger (wheat, sesame, dairy, soy);
or Veggie Burger (wheat, gluten, soy, sesame);
with Fries (wheat), Salad Bar (possible sesame, dairy), and Pear.

Thursday, Dec. 11

Breakfast:
English Muffin w/ Butter (wheat, sesame, dairy);
or Assorted Cereal (Wheat).

Lunch:
Walking Taco;
or Plant-Based Meat (soy, corn);
with Salad Bar (possible sesame, dairy) and Apple.

Friday, Dec. 12

Breakfast:
Assorted Cereal (Wheat);
Breakfast Pastries.

Lunch:
Corn Dog (eggs, soy, wheat, gluten);
or Chef’s Choice;
with Tots, Salad Bar (possible sesame, dairy), and Fruit Cup.

Week of December 15-19

Monday, Dec. 15

Breakfast:
Scrambled Eggs, French Toast, Hashbrown (egg, wheat, soy);
or Assorted Cereal (Wheat).

Lunch:
Chicken Tenders (soy, egg, wheat);
or Veggie Pizza (wheat, dairy);
with Fries (wheat), Salad Bar (possible sesame, dairy), and Apple.

Tuesday, Dec. 16

Breakfast:
Blueberry Muffin (egg, wheat, soy);
or Assorted Cereal (Wheat).

Lunch:
Smoked Turkey Pot Pie (wheat, dairy);
or Wowbutter & Jelly (soy, wheat, sesame, dairy);
with WW Roll (wheat, sesame), Salad Bar (possible sesame, dairy), and Orange.

Wednesday, Dec. 17

Breakfast:
Scrambled Eggs, French Toast, Hashbrown (egg, wheat, soy);
or Assorted Cereal (Wheat).

Lunch:
Hot Dog (soy, wheat, sesame);
or Turkey Sub Sandwich (gluten, dairy, sesame, soy);
with Fries (wheat), Salad Bar (possible sesame, dairy), and Pear.

Thursday, Dec. 18

Breakfast:
Chocolate Muffin (egg, wheat, soy);
or Assorted Cereal (Wheat).

Lunch:
Shredded Beef (Brisket) Banh Mi (sesame, soy, wheat);
or Plant-Based Banh Mi (sesame, soy, wheat);
or Bagel Lunchbox (dairy, gluten, sesame, soy);
with Salad Bar (possible sesame, dairy) and Apple.

Friday, Dec. 19

Breakfast:
Assorted Cereal (Wheat);
Breakfast Pastries.

Lunch:
Drumstick (wheat) w/ Mashed Potatoes (soy, dairy) and Corn on the Cob;
or Chef’s Choice;
with Salad Bar (possible sesame, dairy) and Fruit Cup.

PTA Meeting Minutes: 10/14/25

Whittier PTA Board Meeting
October 14, 2025
7:00pm Whittier Library & Zoom

Meeting Called to Order at 7:05 PM

Welcome & Call To Order

  • PTA Dashboard (slide presentation) 
  • Table & Zoom Chat Introductions

President Update

  • This Year’s Overview (Volunteers, Goals, Meeting Structure, To Dos, Work Cadence) 
  • Dashboard Review 
  • Membership Update
    • Currently 95 members
  • Volunteer Update
    • Open volunteer opportunities
    • System change for the volunteer process at SPS. Now the staff have to send us the volunteer information. 
    • Tip: Email your child’s teacher and say you want to be involved and they will add you to the system. 
    • Note: This requirement does not apply to afterschool/PTA 
  • October To-Do List
  • PTA Dashboard
    • Q: You can find this information on the website, correct?
    • A: Yes. We will post the presentation and this information is available on the website
  • Fundraising we are at 33% employer matching is coming in
  • Revised Budget
    • Increased expenses for the Spring Fling
  • Building Leadership Team (BLT) Overview
    • Need 2 new parent members (2-year term) starting 2026-2027
  • Wildchat editors- Ellen and Andrew
  • School Board Meetings & Election
  • STEAM Lab Funding Proposal – $1,300 to update the STEAM Lab

Teacher Panel

  • Principal Waters- Facilitate
  • Mr. Keener (Kindergarten)
  • Ms. Leming (Fourth Grade)
  • Ms. Newcombe (Librarian 0.5 FTE Whittier)
  • Ms. Hansen (First and Second split)
  • Ms. Schelenberger (First Grade)
  • Ms. Lauren Johnson (Social Worker 0.5 FTE Whittier)
  • Question: Is there a 1-pager teachers could share with parents about how they are teaching math. I want to help my kids but don’t want to introduce confusion. 
    • YES: Envision Curriculum provides 1-2 page overview of each topic. Ask your teacher if you haven’t seen it. Look in the teacher’s newsletter for suggestions. Check folder for takehome Tues. 
    • If we see concerns we will reach out about it
  • Question: Are there areas that you see could be improved and how we could support you in that process?
    • Keener- Currently figuring out ways to get parents into the classroom. 
    • Lauren- We have a nice community based program at Whittier. We are a highly academic school. They do a lot of hard things during the day. As a social worker, work with kids that are having a hard time getting the hard things done and break down what is making it hard. 
    • Principal Waters- Would love to get Snorkel painted. 
      • Advocacy- school allocations, city/schoolboard and other priorities
    • Newcombe- Do some of the basic Math games
  • Question: How are families doing with the state of the world?
    • Lauren- Office Care Committee, ways for people to reach us. We have Friday food bags, care closet, community
    • General feelings of anxiety- we focus on social emotional learning
  • Question: Concern about worksheets not completed, what’s the best way to communicate those kinds of concerns?
    • Email and/or TalkingPoints. 
    • We sometimes send home work that we haven’t completely checked. We do have some form of knowledge check that we ask kids to do. 
    • Question framing- what information do you want to know from the teacher? Also, ask your child to tell you about something they brought home, like “tell me about how you did this? On your own, with a group?
  • Question: Incorrect answers or spelling errors, do I correct it as a parent?
    • No. We are trying to minimize the anxiety, so they will make progress, do things/try things and not try to always be perfect. 
    • Goal is for productive struggle, feel small wins meaningfully. 
  • Question: MAP Testing, what is it and how are you leveraging it here? 
    • Adaptive test- so gets harder as you get answers correct. 
    • It’s a part of learning, it’s one piece of information we use. 
    • If your kids are feeling good about it, that’s great
    • If your kids are feeling not good about it, that’s great- lean into that with them. 
    • We use it as a bullet point, it is going to create an anxiety- the MAP test is not necessarily the greatest view of a students ability. 
    • Parent teacher conferences in November with more info about testing/assessments
  • Question: Each grade has a focus of what they are working on, can you each describe that for your class?
    • Keener: Focus on reading and identifying where each student is at. 
    • Waters: Kindergarten, the focus is on how do you be in school. How to be a student.
      • First and Second Grade: How to be a learner, take ownership of your learning, the rigor of the classroom environment is pretty intense. 
      • Third Grade: How do I read to learn
      • Fourth Grade: I am a student, how am I in charge of my learning, how do I have voice, agency and develop habits.
      • Fifth Grade: How do we get you out and ready for what’s next (Practice the skills). 
  • Question: What happens when there is a friendship conflict? How should I support my kid?
    • Approach with curiosity, ask more about what happened, how did it make them feel, what did they do about it? Did they talk to someone at school?
    • Give students choices, calm down and then ask questions so they decide what to do. 
    • We want students to be advocating for themselves. 
      • I’m so sorry to hear that. What do you think would help solve that problem? Please talk to your teacher about it. 
    • Kids are all wanting to be good friends and good humans and this is the place they are learning how to do that. 
  • Question: Do we have grades at this school? Report cards?
    • No grades, there are scored standards. 
    • Teachers spend a lot of time on them
    • Find in the Source
  • Highly Capable: 
    • District standards are now aligned with the state. HC can be advanced in either subject (doesn’t have to be both)
    • Looking for volunteer math tutors- to sign up, see the email
  • Question: Are vibes good or are vibes bad?
    • Construction was a challenge
    • As a district we are a little bit adrift w/o leadership at the top.

Chair & Lead Update

  • Treasurer’s Update (Bryan) 
    • Annual Give and a few expenses (Taproot Theater, Kindercat Pizza and tshirts) – net of about $60,000
  • Hospitality Update (Melissa)
    • Sept provided dinner to the staff on curriculum night
    • Room Rep Coordinator (Kathleen)
      • Fifth Grade Appreciation is needed
  • Outreach (Emily)
    • Helping Hands annual gift card drive to support families. Starts in November
    • Multicultural belonging group getting together for dinners, whatsapp group
    • Caregivers of neurodiverse- meetup on playground
    • Caregivers of diverse youth
  • EDI (Rachel)
    • Disability awareness month
    • Highlighting the special ed teachers and program and wishlist to fill need gaps to support them 
    • Invite everyone to monthly meetings- third Tuesday at someone’s house. edi@whittier.seattle.org
  • Fall Carnival
    • Need volunteers to sign up
  • Fundraising (Allie)
    • Annual fund is at about $84,000 going to stop sending out emails. Matching should come in- goal is $130,000. 
  • Spring Fling (Kate) 
    • March 7. Class bucket and class art volunteers. 
      • Laura and Emily are coordinating class art
      • Hanni is coordinating the buckets
      • Next planning meeting is on Oct 22 at Laura’s house
  • Ice Skating event (Bonnie)
    • Signup coming soon, last year 180 people showed up. Wednesday of Thanksgiving Break
  • Book Fair (Snigdha)
    • Same time as the parent teacher conferences
  • Programs (Emily)
    • Need volunteers on Monday
  • STEAM Lab (Kate)
    • TBD

Voting (for PTA members) 

  • Approval of September 2025 Meeting Minutes
    • Noelle motioned to approve
    • Allie seconded
      • Approved
  • 2025-2026 Revised Budget
    • Katheen motioned to approve
    • Snigdha seconded
      • Approved
  • STEAM Lab Funding Proposal
    • Katie motioned to approve
    • Megan seconded
      • Approved

Kudos & Thank Yous

Many kudos and thank yous given (on slide)

Meeting Adjourned 8:35 pm



 

Breakfast & Lunch Menus: November 2025

Monday, November 3

Breakfast: English Muffin w/ Egg Patty and Cheese – (egg, dairy, wheat, sesame, soy); or Assorted Cereal (Wheat).

Lunch: Chicken Tenders – (soy, egg, wheat); or Wowbutter and Jelly (Soy, Wheat, Sesame, Dairy); with Salad Bar (Possible Sesame, Dairy) and Apple.

Tuesday, November 4

Breakfast: Bagel w/Cream Cheese – (Egg, Soy, Dairy, Wheat, Sesame); or Assorted Cereal (Wheat).

Lunch: Chicken Mole & Corn Arepas (Egg, Soy and Milk); or Turkey and Cheese Wrap (Wheat, Dairy, Sesame); with Spanish Rice (Soy) and Beans, Salad Bar (Possible Sesame, Dairy), and Orange.

Wednesday, November 5

Breakfast: English Muffin w/ Egg Patty and Cheese – (egg, dairy, wheat, sesame, soy); or Assorted Cereal (Wheat).

Lunch: Hot Dog (Soy, Wheat, Sesame); or Turkey Sub Sandwich (Gluten, Dairy, Sesame, Soy); with Tots, Salad Bar (Possible Sesame, Dairy), and Pear.

Thursday, November 6

Breakfast: English Muffin w/ Butter – (wheat, sesame, dairy, soy); or Assorted Cereal (Wheat).

Lunch: Teriyaki Chicken w/Yakisoba (Gluten, Soy, Sesame, Corn); or Bagel Lunchbox (Dairy, Gluten, Sesame, Soy); with Veggie Yakisoba (Gluten, Soy, Corn), Salad Bar (Possible Sesame, Dairy), and Apple.

Friday, November 7

Breakfast: Assorted Cereal (Wheat).

Lunch: Chicken Wings (Wheat) w/Mashed Potatoes (Soy, Dairy) and Corn on the Cob); or Yogurt (Dairy, Gluten, Soy); with Chefs Choice, Mashed Potatoes (Soy, Dairy) and Corn on the Cob, Salad Bar (Possible Sesame, Dairy), and Fruit Cup.

Monday, November 10

Breakfast: Scrambled Eggs, French Toast, Hashbrown (Egg, Wheat, Soy); or Assorted Cereal (Wheat).

Lunch: Cheese Pizza (Wheat, Dairy); or Turkey and Cheese Wrap (Wheat, Dairy, Sesame); with Salad Bar (Possible Sesame, Dairy) and Apple.

Tuesday, November 11

NO SCHOOL

Wednesday, November 12

Breakfast: English Muffin w/ Egg Patty and Cheese – (egg, dairy, wheat, sesame, soy); or Assorted Cereal (Wheat).

Lunch: Cheese Burger (Wheat, Sesame, Dairy, Soy); or Turkey Sub Sandwich (Gluten, Dairy, Sesame, Soy); with Fries (Wheat), Salad Bar (Possible Sesame, Dairy), and Pear.

Thursday, November 13

Breakfast: English Muffin w/ Butter (Wheat, Sesame, Dairy); or Assorted Cereal (Wheat).

Lunch: Walking Taco; or Bagel Lunchbox (Dairy, Gluten, Sesame, Soy); with Salad Bar (Possible Sesame, Dairy) and Apple.

Friday, November 14

Breakfast: Breakfast Pastries; or Assorted Cereal (Wheat).

Lunch: Corn Dog (Eggs, Soy, Wheat, Gluten); or Yogurt (Dairy, Gluten, Soy); with Tots, Salad Bar (Possible Sesame, Dairy), and Fruit Cup.

Monday, November 17

Breakfast: Scrambled Eggs, French Toast, Hashbrown (Egg, Wheat, Soy); or Assorted Cereal (Wheat).

Lunch: Chicken Tenders (Soy, Egg, Wheat); or Turkey and Cheese Wrap (Wheat, Dairy, Sesame); with Fries (Wheat), Salad Bar (Possible Sesame, Dairy), and Apple.

Tuesday, November 18

Breakfast: Blueberry Muffin (Egg, Wheat, Soy); or Assorted Cereal (Wheat).

Lunch: Chicken Pot Pie (Wheat, Dairy); or Wowbutter and Jelly (Soy, Wheat, Sesame, Dairy); with WW Roll (Wheat, Sesame), Salad Bar (Possible Sesame, Dairy), and Orange.

Wednesday, November 19

Breakfast: Scrambled Eggs, French Toast, Hashbrown (Egg, Wheat, Soy); or Assorted Cereal (Wheat).

Lunch: Hot Dog (Soy, Wheat, Sesame); or Turkey Sub Sandwich (Gluten, Dairy, Sesame, Soy); with Fries (Wheat), Salad Bar (Possible Sesame, Dairy), and Pear.

Thursday, November 20

Breakfast: Chocolate Muffin (Egg, Wheat, Soy); or Assorted Cereal (Wheat).

Lunch: Shredded Beef (Brisket) Bahn Mi (Sesame, Soy, Wheat); or Bagel Lunchbox (Dairy, Gluten, Sesame, Soy); with Fries (Wheat), Salad Bar (Possible Sesame, Dairy), and Apple.

Friday, November 21

Breakfast: Breakfast Pastries; or Assorted Cereal (Wheat).

Lunch: Drumstick (Wheat) w/Mashed Potatoes (Soy, Dairy) and Corn on the Cob; or Yogurt (Dairy, Gluten, Soy); Salad Bar (Possible Sesame, Dairy), and Fruit Cup.

Monday, November 24

NO SCHOOL

Tuesday, November 25

NO SCHOOL

Wednesday, November 26

NO SCHOOL

Thursday, November 27

NO SCHOOL

Friday, November 28

NO SCHOOL

PTA Meeting Minutes: 9/9/25

Whittier PTA Board Meeting
September 9, 2025
7:00pm Whittier Library & Zoom

Meeting Called to Order at 7:04 PM

Welcome & Call To Order

  • PTA Dashboard (slide presentation) 
  • Table & Zoom Chat Introductions

President Update

  • This Year’s Overview (Volunteers, Open positions, Goals, Schedule, Programs/Services, Meeting Structure)
  • September To-Do List 
  • PTA Work Cadence (Oct-May)
  • Dashboard Review – 58 members today (over charter minimum, less than last year’s 166); Annual Give update
  • PTA Membership and Volunteer Refreshers
  • Standing Rules Updates – voting on WA State and National PTA recommended changes
  • Revised Budget – voting on changes to approved budget due to change in cost of Spring Fling 
  • Communications Chair – implications of this role not being filled
  • Event Planning Worksheet – made available to members planning PTA events
  • Community requested update – Plymouth housing development community meeting request 
  • School Board – meetings and elections information
  • District Superintendent – info re Superintendent search

● Principal Watters’ Report –By Morgan Leming (4th Grade teacher) and Trilby Cohen (Reading Intervention Specialist) in Principal Watters’ absence.

  • Update on how the first week of school went. Construction disruption has been minimal and full playground access is expected October 6.
  • New staff – Devlyn Habib (He/She) is the new enrichment coordinator and math intervention and extension coordinator. STEAM lab will be used by teachers at their election for specific units with Devlyn’s support. Use of the STEAM lab will be communicated to parents in the teacher’s weekly communication.
  • Math intervention and extension will be run by the classroom teacher with Devlyn facilitating volunteers. Teachers may choose to have volunteers run Gen Ed, while the teacher works with kids who need intervention in small groups, on a unit by unit basis.
  • Math agency was not extended for an additional year because it did not meet community needs. We were not required to make the last payment in the amount of $20,000, which per PTA approved budget will be used to fund this new staff position for the 2025-26 school year.

 

Belonging practice

Overview of the purpose they served in last years meetings and what they included. It was led by EDI Co-chair last year but can be taken up by any community member.

Chair & Lead Update

  • Treasurer’s Update (Bryan) 
    • Intro – Bryan is the new treasurer.
    • The only expense during the summer was Konstella renewal. 
    • Once the new board members are approved in today’s meeting signors can be updated in the bank account
    • Financial review was completed. Report must be signed by reviewers who should contact Bryan.
  • Hospitality Update (Jess)
    • Report on pre-school start activities – staff room restock, back to school gifts to staff, meals for staff for back to school tri days, tears and cheers
    • First staff appreciation is in September – Chipotle 
    • Next month will be 5th grade, signups will be sent
  • Outreach (Emily)
    • Report on pre-school activities – Kindercat popsicle playdate, Kindercat welcome Pizza party
    • Mentorships – 14 families volunteered to mentor new whittier families. The office will assign families to mentors and new families will have the choice if to reach out.
  • EDI (Emily)
    • EDI committee meets every third Tuesday except this month which will be Wednesday. 
    • EDI meetings work on belonging groups to address different groups within our community with unique experiences. To receive the first meeting information reach out to Emily.
  • Room Rep Coordinator (Sara)
    • Room Reps still needed for Baldi and Leming classes. 
    • Room reps coordinate communications from the teacher, staff gifts etc.
  • Fundraising (Aliie)
    • Annual Give will be condensed to September this year.
    • Moved to fully digital, with raffles every Friday.
    • Currently at $32,082 (25% of goal). 
    • Employer matching welcome.
  • Spring Fling (Kate) 
    • Still no char, the event requires two co-chairs.
    • In the past we had a block party, which is no longer an option. Due to the move to a venue, we also need to have a caterer. Kate and Allie researched options and found Stoneway Auto and Pyramid catering to be the least expensive option that still meets community needs.
    • Other options considered were too mall, too expensive, already booked for the desired date etc.
    • Due to the increased cost of hosting the event, ticket prices will need to increase, but this is accounted for by food provided, as opposed to food available for purchase when the event was a block party with food trucks.
    • The event would still require a $7,000 budget increase, and a corresponding fundraising goal increase, which is reflected in the amended budget.  
  • STEAM Lab (Kate) Once Devlyn is fully onboarded we will have work parties for volunteers to help prepare the room in coordination with Devlyn. We are hoping this will be ready to preview on curriculum night, September 25.

Voting (for PTA members) 

  • Approval of 2025-2026 Board: 
  • Katherine Lindsay, President 
  • Anika Anand, Vice President 
  • Dafna Amster Kahn & Mary Ann Rozance, Co-Secretaries 
  • Brian Wold, Treasurer 
  • Allie DeLong Thomas & Renee Hartnett, Fundraising Co-Chairs 
  • Melissa Ivancevich & Jess Twardzik, Hospitality Co-Chairs 
  • Emily Schweiger, Outreach Chair 
  • Aisling McCarron, Events Chair 
  • Laura Zingg-Wadsack & Natalie Gromoff, Programs Co-Chairs 
  • Kyle Hiatt, Legislative Rep 
  • Seeking Volunteer, Membership Chair 
  • Kristin Laughlin, Volunteer Chair 
  • Rachel Wold & Jill Muscatel, EDI Co-Chairs
  • Sara Lukas motioned to approve
  • Theresa Miranda Blockney seconded
    • Approved
  • Approval of May 2025 Meeting Minutes
    • Ashley Schiavone motioned to approve
    • Anika Anand Blockney seconded
      • Approved
  • Approval of the amended 2025-2026 Standing Rules
    • Theresa Miranda Blockney motioned to approve
    • Kristin Laughlin seconded
      • Approved
  • Approval of the 2024-25 Financial Review Results
    • Snigdha Rege motioned to approve
    • Kristin Laughlin seconded
    • Approved

Kudos & Thank Yous

  • Brian – Summer Treasurer on-boarding 
  • Financial Review committee members 
  • STEAM Lab Volunteers – Curriculum planning 
  • Dafna, Sara, and Aisling – Back to Business planning 
  • Back to Business day-of volunteer crew! 
  • Emily S. – Popsicle Playdates & Kinder Welcome 
  • Hospitality – Staff Lounge Restock, Welcome lunch and staff gifts 
  • Laura & Natalie – Summer Programs planning!




Meeting Adjourned 8:30 pm