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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.
Plan Ahead: When to Expect Financial Asks Throughout the School Year
Please see below for a typical list of financial asks by SPS, Whittier, and Whittier PTA throughout the school year. This list includes completely optional events. If your family would like to learn more about scholarships and other financial assistance, please reach out to office.whittier@seattleschools.org.
| SEPTEMBER |
| School Pictures (Whittier): Packages start at $30 |
| School Meals account (SPS): $2.25-3.85/meal |
| Whittier PTA’s Annual Give Direct Donation Drive: ~$395/student |
| Field Trip Fee (Whittier): $50 (K-4th Grade) |
| Islandwood Fee (Whittier): 5th Grade only |
| Class Wish List contribution: Varies by class, typically can find items between $10-$50 |
| Whittier PTA Membership: $20/individual |
| Whittier PTA’s After School Programs registration fee(s) – Fall Session: Varies, typically $200-$300/student for 8-week session |
| OCTOBER |
| Whittier PTA Staff Appreciation (5th grade families only): Varies, typically $10-20/student |
| Whittier PTA’s Fall Carnival Concessions and Food Truck meals: Varies from $1-$5/concession item or ~$15/meal for Food Trucks |
| NOVEMBER |
| Whittier PTA Staff Appreciation (4th grade families only): Varies, typically $10-20/student |
| Whittier PTA’s Helping Hands Gift Card Drive: $3000 financial goal, meaning $20-$40/student |
| Whittier PTA’s Wildcats Ice Skate: $12/skater |
| Book Fair (Whittier): 25% of sales are donated to the Whittier Library |
| DECEMBER |
| Staff and Teacher Gifts (varies by class): Varies by class |
| JANUARY |
| Whittier PTA’s Spring Fling donations (buckets, auction items): Contribution asks vary, can be monetary or items |
| Whittier PTA’s After School Programs registration fee(s) – Winter Session: Varies, typically $200-$300/student for 8-week session |
| Whittier PTA’s Staff Appreciation (3rd Grade Families only): Varies, typically $10-20/student |
| FEBRUARY |
| Whittier PTA’s Staff Appreciation (2nd Grade Families only): Varies, typically $10-20/student |
| Valentines’/Friendship Day giveaways: Varies, can be handmade or purchased |
| MARCH |
| Whittier PTA’s Spring Fling: Tickets ($55 incl drink + food), Extra drinks ($8/each), auction participation (varies) and Fund the Need donation (varies) |
| Whittier PTA’s Staff Appreciation (1st Grade Families only): Varies, typically $10-20/student |
| Whittier PTA’s After School Programs registration fee(s) – Spring Session: Varies, typically $200-$300/student for 8-week session |
| Community Giving Drive (Whittier): Varies depending on type |
| APRIL |
| Whittier PTA’s Move-a-thon (ask communication for pledges/donations): $100/student goal |
| MAY |
| Whittier PTA’s Staff Appreciation Week: Bring flowers (can be from garden) |
| Spring Musical tickets (Whittier): Varies, generally $10-12/ticket |
| JUNE |
| Field Day t-shirts (Whittier): Varies, some teachers ask for a white t-shirt to tie dye while others ask students to wear a specific color |
Become a Spring Fling 2026 Sponsor!
We’re inviting you to make a difference for nearly 400 students at Whittier Elementary in Seattle’s Ballard neighborhood by supporting our Spring Fling Auction Fundraiser on March 7, 2026.
Whittier PTA, a 501(c)3 non-profit, bridges the funding gap to provide essential staff and programs our public school wouldn’t otherwise have—extra school nurse time, reading and math support and enrichment, regular arts education, playground supervision, classroom supplies, library books, and STEAM learning for our Wildcat scholars.
We’re seeking donations of goods, services, or experiences for our auction—and inviting local businesses to become event sponsors. Sponsors and donors receive meaningful recognition in our WildChat newsletter, event materials, and community promotions reaching more than 1,500 families, plus visibility to up to 350 attendees at the live event (and maybe even a friendly bidding war for your item!).
| LEVEL | DESCRIPTION | BENEFITS |
|---|---|---|
| Gold Sponsor – $2,500 | Show your support of public school education as the exclusive title event sponsor | ✓ Title placement in all event publicity “Whittier’s Spring Fling, brought to you by [your name],” including school newsletters, neighborhood lawn signs, print flyers ✓ Prominent homepage logo placement on event website and online auction catalog ✓ Exclusive 24 x 36 signage at event entrance |
| Silver Sponsor – $1,000 | Sponsor one of three marquee event booths: – Bar – DJ booth and dance floor – Mystery prize wall | ✓ Title placement on booth signage – e.g. “Whittier Wildcat Prize Pounce, sponsored by [your name] ✓ Exclusive 11 x 17 signage in front of booth ✓ Logo on event website and auction catalog ✓ Recognition in school newsletters, print flyers ✓ Shared large logo placement on event signage |
| Bronze Sponsor – $250 | Join dozens of local businesses in showing community support of a neighborhood public school | ✓ Logo on event website and auction catalog ✓ Shared small logo placement on event signage |
| Goods, Services, or Experiences Donor | Donate a signature service, merchandise (e.g. overstock inventory), or a gift card! Suggested value $50 – $250 | ✓ Logo in online auction catalog ✓ Shared small logo placement on event signage ✓ Logo placement in event promos |
If you’d like to become a sponsor, please contact me at springfling@whittierptaseattle.org. To donate goods or services, please complete our online donation form. Donations and sponsorship applications are due January 31, 2026.
Thank you in advance for supporting our students and celebrating our Whittier Wildcats community—let’s grow a brighter future together!
Whittier PTA is a 501(c)3 organization, and your contribution is tax deductible to the extent allowed by law. The portion of your contribution that is tax deductible is limited to the excess of your contribution over the value of the goods and services provided. Tax ID #91-1479413
Whittier PTA Standing Rules: 2023-2024
Whittier PTA 6.15.370
2023-24 Standing Rules – DRAFT
Approved by the Whittier PTA General Membership on January 9, 2024
Article 1. Name, Purpose and History of Organization
1.1 The name of this unit is Whittier PTA, local unit 6.15.370 (“PTA”). It was chartered in December
- The National PTA number is 23239.
1.2 The PTA’s mission is to partner with and advocate for students, families and teachers of Whittier
Elementary School to provide a safe and inclusive environment, equitable resources, and
engaging opportunities to enable all of our children to reach their full, unique potential.
1.3 PTA is part of the Seattle Council of the Parent Teacher and Student Associations (“SCPTSA”),
Washington State Parent Teacher Association (“WSPTA”) and the National Parent Teacher
Association (“NPTA”), and adheres to the bylaws of those organizations as well as these Standing
Rules.
Article 2. State and Federal Status, Filings
2.1 The PTA was incorporated as a non-profit corporation on November 28, 1988. It is assigned
corporation account number 2-406818-1. The Treasurer is responsible for filing the Annual
Corporation Report by November 30 of each year.
2.2 The Registered Agent for this corporation is the WSPTA.
2.3 The PTA was granted tax-exempt status under section 501(c)(3) on July 13, 1990. The PTA is
registered under the Charitable Solicitations Act, registration Number 5283. The Treasurer is
responsible for filing annual registration by May 31 of each year.
2.4 The Treasurer is responsible for filing the IRS Form 990 prior to November 15 of each year and
providing a copy to the board of directors. Copies of the current and past years’ returns are kept
in the legal document notebooks maintained by the president and secretary.
2.5 The PTA shall purchase appropriate insurance.
2.6 The PTA shall operate in a fiscally responsible manner and comply with the Washington
Nonprofit Corporation Act, the Internal Revenue Code and Regulations and all other applicable
law.
2.7 The PTA will annually review, complete, and implement actions identified on the WSPTA
Standards of Affiliation Agreement.
2.8 The PTA shall keep original copies of all legal documents, including but not limited to the
documents described herein, in a binder maintained by the Secretary and located at Whittier
Approved by the Whittier PTA General Membership on January 9, 2024
Elementary School. All board members shall have access to the contents of the legal documents
binder.
2.9 The PTA shall create a common online database of information relevant to PTA board members,
PTA community members, and Whittier staff. Access to information will be made available to all
parties unless it is deemed necessary by the Executive Committee to limit access (such as
password protected accounts, specific financial information, or private communications.) The
PTA Executive Committee will also manage a centralized database of passwords and financial
account access that will not be made accessible to non-committee members.
Article 3. Membership
3.1 Membership in the PTA is open without discrimination to all parents, teachers, staff,
grandparents, guardians, students, community members, and any other persons who support
the purposes and basic policies of the PTA, upon payment of the required dues.
3.2 The students of Whittier Elementary School shall be considered honorary members of the PTA
but without voice, vote or the privilege of holding office.
3.3 The general membership fees of the Whittier PTA include the combined fees of the NPTA,
WSPTA, SCPTSA, and Whittier PTA. The Whittier PTA portion of the fees shall not exceed $10 for
an individual and $20 for a family. General membership fees for Whittier Elementary teachers
and staff include the NPTA, WSPTA, and SCPTA fees only, and may be set to the next full dollar
amount above the combined non-Whittier fees.
3.4 In the event of any change to the fees charged for membership by the NPTA, WSPTA, or SCPTSA
the total fees charged for Whittier PTA general membership may be adjusted at any time, and
from time to time, by the Whittier PTA Board to reflect those changes.
3.5 The Membership Chair may approve scholarships for individuals, families, teachers and staff in
circumstances approved by the Board and with restricted funds donated for that purpose. In
such cases, the scholarship shall be used to pay the NPTA, WSPTA and SCPTSA fees associated
with the membership, and the Whittier PTA fees shall be waived.
3.6 All memberships extend through October 31 of the following fiscal year.
Article 4. Board of Directors and Committees
4.1 All board members must be PTA members in good standing. To be elected as an officer, a person
must be a member of the PTA.
4.2 The elected officers of the PTA’s Board of Directors are the President, Vice-President, Treasurer,
Assistant Treasurer, Communications Director, and Secretary. This group constitutes the
Executive Committee.
Approved by the Whittier PTA General Membership on January 9, 2024
4.3 The name of each candidate for an elected officer position must be contained in the notice of
meeting to the general membership. During the general membership meeting, which must be
held prior to the WSPTA election deadline, additional nominations may be made from the floor
with the consent of the nominee. Officers shall be elected by a simple majority of the general
membership voting by ballot at a meeting at which a quorum is present. If only one candidate is
nominated for an office, however, the election may be by voice vote. In the event of a vacancy,
the Executive Committee may appoint a member to fill the vacancy until the next general
meeting when the membership shall elect an officer to fill the vacancy following the notice,
nomination and vote requirements herein.
4.4 The PTA Board of Directors consists of the elected officers and the following appointed Directors:
Events Director, Programs Director, Fundraising Director, Outreach Director, Advocacy Chair,
Membership Director, Volunteer Coordinator, Hospitality Coordinator, Equity, Diversity and
Inclusion Chair and Member-at-Large.
4.4a The Member-at-Large position(s) shall be discretionary (optional).
It will be suggested by the Nominating Committee and appointed by the
Executive Committee.
4.5 Once elected, the incoming President shall appoint, and the incoming Executive Committee, by a
vote at a meeting at which a quorum of the Executive Committee is present, shall approve
appointments to the Board of Directors. This action may occur prior to the beginning of the
incoming Executive Committee’s term.
4.6 Elected or appointed positions may be held jointly by 2 people. Each person holding such
position shall be entitled to voice and vote at a Board of Directors meeting. Following the
recommendation of WSPTA, Co-Treasurers are strongly discouraged. A Treasurer with an elected
Assistant Treasurer is a preferred option. It shall be a goal of the PTA, although not a
requirement, to stagger terms where a position is held by two people.
4.7 The School Principal and as many as three staff members are invited to participate in an advisory
capacity at all board meetings (with the exception of when the board is in executive session) and
general meetings.
4.8 PTA board quorum is set at 10 board members. A quorum of the Executive Committee is a
majority of the elected officers.
4.9 This PTA’s Board of Directors will meet approximately monthly on a date and time to be
determined by its current board. Special meetings may be called by the President or upon
written request of the majority of the members of the board consistent with the WSPTA bylaws.
Meetings will generally be open to observation by the general membership, except when the
Board is in executive session; meeting dates, times and locations will be communicated to the
general membership.
4.10 No elected officer may serve in the same board position for more than two consecutive terms. A
term of office is defined as July 1st for one year and until a successor is elected. A board
member having served at least 8 months of a term shall be considered to have served a full
term.
4.11 No member of the PTA Board of Directors, or any of its Committees, shall derive any personal
profit or gain by reason of his or her participation with the PTA. Each individual shall disclose to
Approved by the Whittier PTA General Membership on January 9, 2024
the PTA any personal interest that he or she may have in any matter pending before the PTA and
shall refrain from participation in any discussion or decision on such matter.
4.12 The PTA is a self-governing unit and may take any actions in furtherance of its mission, provided
those actions are not contrary to the laws and policies of the SCPTSA, WSPTA, NPTA, City of
Seattle, Washington State, or the United States. For business to be conducted, a quorum must
be present at a properly called board meeting.
4.13 The PTA will comply with the training requirements necessary to remain in good standing, as
specified in the most current WSPTA bylaws, and will maintain documentation of compliance
with this requirement.
4.14 A Nominating Committee shall be elected at a General Membership meeting in the fall by a
plurality vote; however, if only three candidates are nominated, the three candidates shall be
declared elected. The Vice President shall convene the first meeting of the Nominating
Committee, at which a Chairperson shall be elected by a majority of members. In the event a
member of the nominating committee resigns, the Board may appoint a replacement member.
Nominating Committee members must be members of the PTA for at least 30 days preceding
election to the Committee. A member may serve no more than two consecutive terms on the
Nominating Committee. Neither the President(s) nor the Whittier principal may serve on the
committee. The Nominating Committee shall submit to the general membership the names of a
proposed slate of officers at least 15 days prior to the spring General Membership meeting at
which the election of officers for the upcoming year will be held.
4.15 The final slate of elected and appointed officers shall be submitted to WSPTA no later than the
deadline imposed by the WSPTA.
4.16 Board members shall read and understand the responsibilities and expectations associated with
their position. Job descriptions are available from the Nominating Committee Chair. In some
cases additional tasks may be asked of any board member. It is expected that board members
will attend all board and general meetings. A Board member’s inability to complete tasks and
responsibilities and/or excessive absences from meetings may result in a request for resignation
from the Board.
4.17 A Board Member or a Committee Member can be removed by a simple majority vote of the
board.
4.18 Any agenda items for consideration by the Board of Directors shall be submitted to the President
at least 7 days prior to the scheduled meeting date. Items submitted later than that may be
added or not at the discretion of the President.
4.19 The board may from time to time adopt policies to help the PTA run efficiently and minimize
conflict. Any adopted policies will be maintained by the Secretary with the legal documents in
the PTA office located at Whittier Elementary School and shall be available upon request to all
members of the PTA.
Article 5. Meetings of the General Membership and Quorum
Approved by the Whittier PTA General Membership on January 9, 2024
5.1 General membership meetings shall be held at the direction of the Board of Directors with ten
days’ notice to the general membership. Special meetings may be called as needed with a
minimum of five days’ notice in accordance with the WSPTA bylaws.
5.2 If general membership meetings cannot be held in person, meetings can be convened online as
long as a quorum is reached and the invitation is extended to all members.
5.3 The spring meeting at which officers are elected is designated as the “annual meeting.”
Members must have a minimum of 50 days’ notice prior to the annual meeting.
5.4 The following shall take place at General Membership meetings: adoption of the budget (spring
meeting), adoption/revision of the standing rules (first meeting of the fiscal year), election of the
nominating committee (fall meeting), election of officers (spring meeting). Additionally, the
Treasurer shall present to the General Membership the monthly financial report at each
meeting, and the financial review committee shall present its report to the General Membership
once approved by the Board.
5.5 Any agenda items for consideration by the General Membership shall be submitted to the
President at least 7 days prior to the scheduled meeting date for the President, in his or her
discretion, to include. Items submitted later than that may be added or not at the discretion of
the President.
5.6 When meetings are held electronically (in whole or in a hybrid form of in-person and electronic
attendance), members in good standing and in attendance may cast a vote via the platform
shared by the board.
5.7 Quorum at a General Membership meeting shall be 10 members.
Article 6. Budget and Finance
6.1 It is highly recommended that a survey of the General Membership’s funding priorities be
conducted each spring, prior to the budget process. This survey should ask questions regarding
how PTA funds should be spent, which PTA sponsored activities should be continued, and for
overall comments and suggestions.
6.2 The PTA shall approve its annual operating budget in the spring of each year for the following
fiscal year. Updates to a fiscal year budget may be voted on in the fall at a General
Membership meeting
6.3 Planning for the next year’s budget should begin in February. This committee is chaired by the
Treasurer, and should include the President. While input from the school staff (including the
Principal) is helpful, it could create a conflict of interest to have any school staff member on the
Budget Planning Committee.
6.4 The Board Treasurer(s) shall provide a monthly financial report to the Board during the school
year.
6.5 All checks must be signed by two authorized Executive Committee members, other than the
recipient of the funds. Only members of the Executive Committee shall be signers on the PTA
Approved by the Whittier PTA General Membership on January 9, 2024
bank account. Once elected, but prior to the beginning of the new fiscal year, the incoming
executive committee shall appoint three of its members as signers on the PTA bank account.
6.6 No debit, credit or ATM cards may be used for PTA purposes. Online banking is allowed.
6.7 All reimbursement requests for authorized expenses must include a receipt or invoice. All
requests for reimbursement shall be submitted to the Treasurer within 60 days of purchase and
shall be received by June 1st. Any exceptions to the processing of reimbursement requests after
60 days are at the discretion of the Treasurer.
6.8 Once the budget is approved it can be amended by a vote of those present at a meeting of the
membership. The Executive Committee has the authority to reallocate funds within the
approved budget up to $1000 without a vote of the board or general membership. This option
shall not be exercised more than twice a year. The Board of Directors has the authority to
reallocate funds within the approved budget up to $5000 without a vote of the General
Membership.
6.9 All monetary donations become part of the general fund, unless funds are raised as part of a
defined fundraising campaign.
6.10 The PTA shall conduct a financial review at the close of the fiscal year, which is June 30. A
financial review committee with a minimum of 2 members shall be appointed by the President in
the spring. There is no limit on the number of years a member may serve on the financial review
committee; however, members of this committee shall not include the Treasurer or any person
authorized to sign on the PTA bank account for the period being reviewed or any individuals
living in their household. Records must be submitted to the committee for this financial review
no later than 30 days after the end of the fiscal year. The report of the financial review
committee must be approved by the Board and presented to the members at a General
Membership meeting.
6.11 The PTA’s monthly bank account statements shall be provided unopened to a board member
appointed by the Executive Committee. This appointment shall take place at the beginning of the
fiscal year (July 1). Once elected, but prior to the beginning of the new fiscal year, the incoming
executive committee shall appoint a board member to review such statements. The statement
reviewer shall not be a signer on the account. The reviewer shall report any concerns or
discrepancies identified in the review to the Executive Committee in writing. If there are no
concerns, the reviewer shall sign the statements prior to providing the statements to the
Treasurer for reconciliation.
6.12 The PTA may not enter into financial obligations extending beyond the fiscal year except as
approved by the membership. The membership’s approval of the annual budget in spring
authorizes such spending for the following fiscal year, and the membership need only re-approve
for revisions that exceed the reallocation limits provided in Section 6.7.
Article 7. Funding Proposals
Approved by the Whittier PTA General Membership on January 9, 2024
7.1 Any Funding Proposal over $1000 made to the Board shall be presented to the General
Membership for approval. The board shall review the Funding Proposal and vote whether or not
to recommend approval at the next General Membership meeting. The Funding Proposal may
be presented to the General Membership whether or not it has earned the Board’s
recommendation. Funding Proposals shall be received by the President at least one week prior
to the scheduled meeting date. Funding Proposals received after this deadline may or may not
be included on the agenda for the upcoming Board Meeting, or may be added to the meeting
agenda for the following month, at the discretion of the President(s).
7.2 Requests for funding up to $1000 shall be considered and voted on by the Board. If declined by
the Board, a funding requestor may ask to be included on the agenda for the next General
Membership meeting to present their proposal.
7.3 All approved Funding Proposals shall align with the Whittier PTA’s mission. Preference will be
given to requests that fund projects, programs or activities that support a broad group of
Whittier students; a small number of Whittier students with targeted, identified needs; or have
multi-year benefits. Funding Proposals are not intended to be used to supplement yearly
classroom supplies, or be used for single use items for an individual classroom.
Article 8. Awards
8.1 One or more Golden Acorn Awards shall be presented annually at the spring General Meeting to
an outstanding volunteer(s). A committee chaired and appointed by the Vice President shall
select the recipient. The committee shall determine the number of recipients as well as which
awards are presented.
Article 9. Conference and State and Local Representations
9.1 The vote of this PTA for the position of WSPTA Area Vice President shall be determined by the
Board.
9.2 The voting delegates to the SCPTSA, annual WSPTA convention and WSPTA legislative assembly
shall be determined by the Board. The Board shall determine the number of delegates to be
funded by the PTA to each event.
Article 10. Standing Rules
10.1.Whittier PTA’s Standing Rules shall be presented annually and adopted by a majority vote at the
first General Meeting.
Approved by the Whittier PTA General Membership on January 9, 2024
10.2.The Standing Rules may be amended at any time by a vote of the General Membership. If the
membership has been given 7 days notice prior to the date of the meeting of the intended
change, then the change may be approved by a majority vote of the members present (if a
quorum has been established). If no notice was given prior to the meeting, a two-thirds vote of
the members present is required (if a quorum has been established).
Article 11. Dissolution Statement
11.1. In the event that the Whittier PTA Seattle Council 6.15.370 should dissolve, any PTA funds
remaining on deposit and any accounts receivable shall go to any subsequently organized 501(c)
Whittier PTA organization.
See Attached Appendix A (Anti-Harassment Policy)
Approved by the Whittier PTA General Membership on January 9, 2024
Appendix A
Anti-harassment Policy and Response Procedure
The Whittier PTA Board strives to maintain an environment that is free from violence, harassment, and
bullying. Incidences of violence, harassment and bullying are considered forms of prohibited conduct
and are counter to the board missions to support the creation of a safe, healthy, and connected Whittier
school community. The board is aware that violence, harassment and bullying often impact not only the
individual(s) who experience the harm but also the broader community they are a part of.
● The term “violence” refers to acts or threats of physical violence.
● The term “harassment” refers to unwelcome verbal, visual or physical conduct creating an
intimidating, offensive or hostile environment that relates to a person’s membership in or
perceived membership in a state or federally protected class*.
● The term “bullying” refers to repeated inappropriate behavior, either direct or indirect, whether
verbal, physical or exclusionary.
All individuals are encouraged to raise issues of violence, harassment, or bullying:
● When possible, the board encourages individuals who believe they are being subjected to
prohibited conduct to promptly advise the offender that their behavior is unwelcome and
request that it be discontinued.
● Anyone who believes they are being subjected to prohibited conduct, or who has witnessed such
conduct, is encouraged to share the information with the Whittier PTA board president(s) so that
they can take appropriate responsive actions. If the complaint involves the PTA board
president(s), individuals are encouraged to raise the issue with additional Whittier PTA Board
leadership.
● The PTA board president(s) will work with the impacted party to identify an appropriate
response plan.
● Complaints alleging prohibited conduct on the part of board members will be addressed
promptly and as confidentially as possible.
● Any board member who engages in prohibited conduct towards another individual or group of
individuals is subject to removal from the Board.
*Federal and state protected classes include but are not limited to; age, ancestry, color, disability, marital
status, national origin, parental/family status, race, religion/creed, sex, sexual orientation, gender
identity and gender expression.
Approved by the Whittier PTA General Membership on January 9, 2024
May 2023 Lunch Menu
May’s breakfast offerings are $2.25 and lunch offerings are $3.25. An a la carte menu is also available throughout the year. For more nutrition information and breakfast menus, please view menus at: https://family.titank12.com/menu/LPX5UV
| DATE | LUNCH ENTREÉ 1 | LUNCH ENTREÉ 2 | ENTREÉ 3/VEGETABLE | SEASONAL FRUIT |
| MON, MAY 1 | Cheese Burgers w/Fries | Bean and Cheese Burrito | Seasonal Vegetables | Seasonal Fruit |
| TUES, MAY 2 | Creamy Pesto Pasta w/WW Roll | Sunbutter & Jelly Sandwich | Seasonal Vegetables | Seasonal Fruit |
| WED, MAY 3 | BBQ Pulled Turkey Sandwich | Yogurt Lunchbox | Seasonal Vegetables | Seasonal Fruit |
| THURS, MAY 4 | Chicken Burger & Fries | Bagel Lunch Box | Seasonal Vegetables | Seasonal Fruit |
| FRI, MAY 5 | Chicken Tinga with Rice | Chef’s Choice | Seasonal Vegetables | Seasonal Fruit |
| MON, MAY 8 | Chicken Nuggets (chunk) w/Fries & WW roll | Hummus Lunchbox | Seasonal Vegetables | Seasonal Fruit |
| TUES, MAY 9 | Beef and Bean Chili | Bagel Lunchbox | Seasonal Vegetables | Seasonal Fruit |
| WED, MAY 10 | Chicken Burger with Fries | Yogurt Lunchbox | Seasonal Vegetables | Seasonal Fruit |
| THURS, MAY 11 | Chicken Fajita | Caesar Salad | Seasonal Vegetables | Seasonal Fruit |
| FRI, MAY 12 | Turkey Pinwheel | Sunbutter & Jelly Sandwich | Seasonal Vegetables | Seasonal Fruit |
| MON, MAY 15 | Chicken Nuggets (chunk) w/Fries & WW roll | Bagel Lunchbox | Seasonal Vegetables | Seasonal Fruit |
| TUES, MAY 16 | Korean Beef BBQ w/Rice and Veggies | Yogurt Lunchbox | Seasonal Vegetables | Seasonal Fruit |
| WED, MAY 17 | Grilled Cheese w/Tomato Soup | Sunbutter & Jelly Sandwich | Seasonal Vegetables | Seasonal Fruit |
| THURS, MAY 18 | Sliced Turkey & Gravy with Mashed Potato | Tuna Salad Sandwich | Seasonal Vegetables | Seasonal Fruit |
| FRI, MAY 19 | Mozzarella Breadstick with Marinara Sauce | Hummus Lunchbox | Seasonal Vegetables | Seasonal Fruit |
| MON, MAY 22 | Tuna Melt Sandwich | Yogurt Lunchbox | Seasonal Vegetables | Seasonal Fruit |
| TUES, MAY 23 | Pasta w/ Beef Meatball Marinara | Bagel Lunchbox | Seasonal Vegetables | Seasonal Fruit |
| WED, MAY 24 | Chicken Burger with Fries | Sunbutter & Jelly Sandwich | Seasonal Vegetables | Seasonal Fruit |
| THURS, MAY 25 | Chicken & Chickpea Tikka Masala with Flat Bread | Turkey Ham & Cheese Sandwich | Seasonal Vegetables | Seasonal Fruit |
| FRI, MAY 26 | Beef Burrito | Chef’s Choice | Seasonal Vegetables | Seasonal Fruit |
| MON, MAY 29 | NO SCHOOL | |||
| TUES, MAY 30 | Chicken Sandwich w/Fries | Yogurt Lunchbox | Seasonal Vegetables | Seasonal Fruit |
| WED, MAY 31 | Broccoli Cheddar soup w/WW Roll | Soybutter & Jelly Sandwich | Seasonal Vegetables | Seasonal Fruit |






Discounted tickets are still available for Whittier Night at T-Mobile Park on May 1! Gather your friends and family for an evening of baseball, community, and fun. 









