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PTA Meeting Minutes: 9/9/25

Whittier PTA Board Meeting
September 9, 2025
7:00pm Whittier Library & Zoom
Meeting ID: 817 3911 8250
Passcode: wildcats

BOARD MEMBERS / CHAIRS IN ATTENDANCE

  • Kate Lindsay Scher – President
  • Anika Anand – Vice President; Year Book Co-Chair
  • Dafna Amster Kahn – Co-Secretary; Back To Business Co-Chair
  • Mary Ann Rozance – Co-Secretary
  • Brian Wold – Treasurer
  • Allie DeLong Thomas – Fundraising Co-Chair
  • Renee Hartnett – Fundraising Co-Chair
  • Jess Twardzik – Hospitality Co-Chair 
  • Aisling McCarron – Events Chair; Back To Business Co-Chair
  • Emily Schweiger – Outreach Chair
  • Laura Zingg – Programs Co-Chair; Student Directory Co-Chair
  • Kyle Hiatt – Legislative Rep
  • Kristin Laughlin – Volunteer Coordinator 
  • Kate Gray – Fall Festival Chair; Member-at-Large
  • Snigdha Rege – Book Fair Chair
  • Ashley Schiavone – Spirit Gear Chair 
  • Janet Kim – Student Directory Co-Chair


COMMUNITY MEMBERS IN ATTENDANCE

  • Morgan Leming
  • Trilby Cohen
  • Bonnie Smith (PTA member; Kraken ice skating event)
  • Katie Stiver (PTA member; Mariners event) 
  • Sara Lukas (PTA Member)
  • Theresa Miranda Blockney (PTA Member)
  • Ellen Pepin-Cato (PTA Member)
  • Noel Frame (PTA Member)
  • Andrea Pungoli (PTA Member)
  • Yelena Nueman (PTA Member)
  • Clara Fajardo (PTA Member)
  • Natalie Gwormoff-Halt
  • Johan Manson (PTA Member)
  • Jessica Brinto (PTA Member)
  • Ben Stein (PTA Member)
  • Stephanie Mylenski – (PTA Member)
  • Jared Cortese – (PTA Member)
  • Dan Marx
  • Jitu Nadine
  • Hartley
  • Hanni

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



 

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

PTA Meeting Agenda (11/4/25)

Whittier PTA Monthly Meeting

  • November 4, 2025
  • Whittier Library & Zoom (passcode: wildcats)
  • 7:00pm

Agenda

7-7:05pm – Welcome & Call To Order

  • Call to Order
  • Table & Zoom Chat Informal Introductions

7:05-7:15pm – President Update

7:15-7:25pm – Update from Principal Watters

7:25-7:45pm – Belonging Practice

7:45-8:05pm – Chair Updates

  • Events: Ice Skating
  • Events: Book Fair
  • Secretary: Insurance Renewal
  • Treasurer Report
  • VP: Reflections Art Contest
  • Spring Fling Chairs: Event Updates
  • Programs Update
  • Legislative Rep: Funding Talk
  • Hospitality: October Appreciation, Planned November Appreciation
  • Fall Carnival: Event Report

8:05-8:20pm – Community Feedback Ideas

8:20-8:25pm – Voting

  • October Meeting Minutes

8:25-8:30pm – Kudos & Thank Yous

  • Kate & Jessica – Fall Carnival
  • Fall Carnival Volunteers!
  • Brian – Checks & Check Signing
  • Dafna & Mary Ann – Insurance renewal!
  • Hospitality – Oct appreciation
  • Laura & Natalie – Programs volunteering!
  • Ellen & Andrew – Wildchat!
  • Renee & Allie – Annual Give
  • Bonnie – Ice Skating planning!
  • Snigdha – Book Fair planning!
  • Emily – Oct Coffee + Helping Hands planning!
  • John – (the tech support never ends)
  • (Did we miss someone? Contact president@whittierptaseattle.org!)

8:30pm – Adjourn

Post-Meeting Gathering at Phinney Station


Resources

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!).

LEVELDESCRIPTIONBENEFITS
Gold Sponsor – $2,500Show 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 – $1,000Sponsor 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 – $250Join 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 DonorDonate 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

Breakfast & Lunch Menus: 10/13 – 31/25

Monday, October 13

  • Breakfast: Eggs, French Toast and Hashbrown (Gluten, Dairy, Soy); or Cereal (Gluten).
  • Lunch: Cheese Pizza (Gluten, Dairy, Soy); or Mac and Cheese (Gluten, Dairy, Soy); or Turkey and Cheese Wrap (Gluten, Dairy, Soy); with Salad Bar (Possible Soy, Dairy) and Apple.

Tuesday, October 14

  • Breakfast: Blueberry Bagel w/ Cream Cheese (Egg, Wheat, Soy, Dairy); or Cereal (Wheat).
  • Lunch: Penne Pasta with Plant Based Marinara Sauce (Wheat, Dairy); or Chicken Alfredo (Wheat, Dairy); or Soy Butter and Jelly Sandwich (Soy, Gluten, Sesame, Dairy); with Wheat Roll (Sesame, Wheat, Gluten), Salad Bar (Possible Soy, Dairy), and Orange.

Wednesday, October 15

  • Breakfast: Eggs, French Toast and Hashbrown (Gluten, Dairy, Soy); or Cereal (Gluten, Sesame).
  • Lunch: Cheeseburger (Dairy, Wheat, Gluten, Soy, Sesame); or Veggie Burger (Wheat, Gluten, Soy, Sesame); or Turkey Sub (Gluten, Dairy, Sesame, Soy); with French Fries (Wheat, Gluten), Salad Bar (Possible Soy, Dairy), and Pear.

Thursday, October 16

  • Breakfast: Blueberry Bagel w/ Cream Cheese (Egg, Wheat, Soy, Dairy); or Cereal (Wheat).
  • Lunch: Walking Tacos – Beef (Dairy, Soy, Corn) or Plant Based (Soy, Corn); or Bagel Lunchbox (Sesame, Gluten, Dairy); with Salad Bar (Possible Soy, Dairy) and Apple.

Friday, October 17

  • Breakfast: Cereal (Gluten, Sesame).
  • Lunch: Corn Dog (Eggs, Soy, Wheat, Gluten); or Chef Choice; or Yogurt Lunchbox (Dairy, Gluten, Soy); with French Fries (Gluten), Roll (Sesame, Wheat, Gluten), Salad Bar (Possible Soy, Dairy), and Fruit Cup.

Week of October 20

Monday, October 20

  • Breakfast: Eggs, French Toast and Hashbrown (Egg, Wheat, Soy); or Cereal (Wheat).
  • Lunch: Chicken Tender (Wheat, Egg, Soy); or Veggie Pizza (Wheat, Dairy); or Turkey Sub (Wheat, Dairy, Sesame); with Fries (Wheat), Salad Bar (Possible Dairy, Sesame), and Apple.

Tuesday, October 21

  • Breakfast: Turkey Sausage, Egg and Cheese Biscuit (Soy, Wheat, Dairy); or Cereal (Wheat).
  • Lunch: Chicken Pot Pie (Wheat, Dairy); or Soybutter and Strawberry Jelly Sandwich (Soy, Wheat, Sesame, Dairy); with Wheat Roll (Wheat, Sesame), Salad Bar (Possible Dairy, Sesame), and Orange.

Wednesday, October 22

  • Breakfast: Eggs, French Toast and Hashbrown (Egg, Wheat, Soy); or Cereal (Wheat).
  • Lunch: Hot Dog (Soy, Wheat, Sesame); or Cheese Pizza (Wheat, Dairy); or Turkey Sub Sandwich (Wheat, Dairy, Sesame); with Fries (Soy, Wheat), Salad Bar (Possible Dairy, Sesame), and Pear.

Thursday, October 23

  • Breakfast: Chocolate Muffin (Egg, Wheat, Soy); or Cereal (Wheat).
  • Lunch: Beef Brisket Bahn Mi (Sesame, Soy, Wheat); or Plant Based Bahn Mi (Sesame, Soy, Wheat); or Bagel Lunchbox (Dairy, Gluten, Soy); with Salad Bar (Possible Sesame, Dairy) and Apple.

Friday, October 24

  • Breakfast: Cereal (Wheat).
  • Lunch: Breaded Drumstick (Wheat) with Mashed Potatoes (Tree Nut, Soy, Dairy) and Corn on the Cob; or Chefs Choice; or Yogurt Lunch Box (Wheat, Soy, Dairy); with Salad Bar (Possible Sesame, Dairy) and Fruit Cup.

Week of October 27

Monday, October 27

  • Breakfast: Eggs, French Toast and Hashbrown (Egg, Wheat, Soy); or Cereal (Wheat).
  • Lunch: Cheese Pizza (Wheat, Dairy); or Turkey and Cheese Wrap (Wheat, Dairy, Sesame); with Salad Bar (Possible Sesame, Dairy) and Apple.

Tuesday, October 28

  • Breakfast: Blueberry Bagel with Cream Cheese (Egg, Wheat, Soy, Dairy); or Cereal (Wheat).
  • Lunch: Penne Pasta with Creamy Alfredo and Chicken (Dairy, Wheat, Soy); or Penne Pasta with Creamy Alfredo and Broccoli (Dairy, Wheat, Soy); or Soybutter and Strawberry Jelly Sandwich (Soy, Wheat, Sesame, Dairy); with Salad Bar (Possible Sesame, Dairy) and Orange.

Wednesday, October 29

  • Breakfast: Eggs, French Toast and Hashbrown (Egg, Wheat, Soy); or Cereal (Wheat).
  • Lunch: Cheeseburger (Wheat, Sesame, Dairy, Soy); or Veggie Burger (Wheat, Sesame, Dairy, Soy); or Turkey Sub Sandwich (Wheat, Sesame, Dairy, Soy); with Fries (Wheat), Salad Bar (Possible Sesame, Dairy), and Pear.

Thursday, October 30

  • Breakfast: Pancakes (Egg, Wheat, Soy); or Cereal (Wheat).
  • Lunch: Wet Chicken Burrito with Cheese and Salsa (Dairy, Wheat, Soy); or Spanish Rice (Soy) and Beans; or Bagel Lunch Box (Dairy, Gluten, Soy); with Salad Bar (Possible Sesame, Dairy) and Apple.

Friday, October 31

  • Breakfast: Cereal (Wheat).
  • Lunch: Chef Choice; or Corn Dog (Eggs, Soy, Wheat, Gluten); or Yogurt Lunch Box (Wheat, Soy, Dairy); with Tater Tots (Soy, Wheat), Wheat Roll (Wheat, Sesame), Salad Bar (Possible Sesame, Dairy), and Fruit Cup.

Per Seattle Schools: Menus are subject to change.

Learn more about menus and Seattle Public Schools’ food here.

The Wildchat: 9/24/2025

Wednesday, September 24, 2025

What's Happening:

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🚨 Annual Give Countdown: 56% To Go! 🚨

We’re 44% of the way to our $130,000 goal—math whizzes will note that means we need a big finish. Your suggested $395 per student fuels 58% of Whittier PTA’s total fundraising for the year, keeping the good stuff rolling:

🎨 Daily specialists (including, regular art class)
📚 Math & reading support and challenge
🎉 Community events that turn strangers into friends
🍎 Curriculum & instructional support for our teachers
…and so much more.

If we don’t hit the goal, those programs wobble. If we do? Our kids keep thriving, and you’re officially a hero with bonus raffle bragging rights—every student whose family submits their form (regardless of donation amount) is entered to win cool prizes.

Right now, we’ve had about 38% of our Wildcat families participate in Annual Give–let’s get that participation number to 100%!

Donate today and remeber amplify the impact with your employer’s matching program if you can! Let’s finish strong so every Wildcat can keep pouncing on art, music, math, and memories. 🐾

👉 Give Now 👈

National Hispanic Heritage Month

National Hispanic Heritage Month is a time to honor the histories, cultures, and contributions of Hispanic and Latino Americans. It starts on September 15 (because that day marks the independence anniversaries of several Latin American countries) and runs through October 15. 

The theme for 2025 is Collective Heritage: Honoring the Past, Inspiring the Future. It’s all about celebrating and learning from the past while also looking forward to the contributions and promise of future generations. 

Why is it important for schools and families to know about Hispanic Heritage Month?

  • Recognizing and respecting diverse cultures helps all students feel seen and included
  • Learning about Hispanic history, art, music, science, and language builds empathy and knowledge
  • It’s a chance for families and children to share heritage, stories, and traditions

What can you do to celebrate?

There are lots of fun ways children and families can observe Hispanic Heritage Month together or in school! Here are a few:

Want to learn more?

Check out these resources:

Friday Glazed Donut Disaster

SPS nutrition services has introduced a curious new Friday tradition in Whittier’s lunchroom: every student who buys lunch now receives a six-pack of mini doughnuts.

Kids cheer; teachers cringe. Six doughnuts take time, leaving apple slices and carrot sticks untouched. Staff worry the sugar rush—and the lack of anything green—won’t help students stay focused through the afternoon.

Parents with thoughts can share them with Seattle Public Schools’ Nutrition Services here: https://www.k12insight.com/Lets-Talk/Dialogue.aspx?k=WF7G2YLT@DY9Z5RXLT

Join us on 10/14!

Would-be Volunteers: Our School Needs You!

Think PTA work is all late-night meetings and endless emails? Think again. Here’s a lightning-round of ways to jump in, meet fun people, and maybe even power-wash a giant sea creature:

  • Fall Carnival Crew (6-8 people) – Help throw the silliest, spookiest, snack-iest party we throw all year on 10/24.
  • STEAM Lab Setup (2-3 people) – Peel-and-stick wallpaper, magnetic chalkboard magic, and supply sorting. Think home decor meets Bill Nye.
  • Math & STEAM Helpers (20+ people) – Join a volunteer roster to inspire mini Einsteins during small-group math and science sessions.
  • Communications Chair (1 hero) – Be the info hub: collect announcements, feed them to newsletters and Konstella. Perfect for a K/1 parent who likes knowing everything first.
  • Spring Fling Leads (1-2) & Team (10-15) – Our only grown-ups-only bash/auction. Venue and caterer are booked; you plan the fun. First meeting 9/30.
  • Membership Chair (1) – Remote, low-lift, big impact. Spread the word and keep members in the loop.
  • Family Dance & Game Night Chair (1-2) – Organize the ultimate kids-vs-parents dance-off on 2/12.
  • Co-President (1) – Share the gavel, craft agendas, and run hybrid meetings. Power suit optional.
  • Snorkel Rejuvenation Team (3-4) – Restore our beloved front-yard creature statue to its former shiny glory—on your own schedule, with provided supplies.

Want to help Whittier grow? Email the PTA today and snag your spot! Psst–you can always find a complete listing of volunteer opportunities at Whittier here >>

After School Program Registration Happening Now!

Whittier PTA coordinates After School enrichment programs for Whittier families across Fall, Winter, and Spring sessions. Registration for Fall session is open now through October 3rd with spots still available for:

  • 1ON1 After School Hoops (Mondays, grades 2-5)
  • Kong Academy Parkour (Tuesdays, grades K-2)
  • Jump on Languages Spanish (Thursdays, grades 1-5)

Learn more about Whittier PTA’s After School programs and how to register here >>

From the Community...

Youth Strength and Conditioning Classes in Phinney Ridge Start October 8!

CFPR Functional Fitness teaches youth physical fitness with a focus on form and fun! Our classes can help athletic kids become stronger, faster, and more agile, and build confidence and body awareness in children who just want to have a good time and move their bodies.

From bodyweight movements like squats, planks, and burpees, to cardio with rowers or scooters, every exercise is scaled to each child’s ability. And we’ll play fitness-oriented games that make exercise fun!

We’ll also introduce older children to weighted movements—starting with extremely light dumbbells and barbells, then increasing weight as they develop good form. 

Interested? Details are below.

CFPR Kids (ages 7-11) 

  • Wednesdays, Oct.8-Dec.17 (no class Nov. 26)
  • 2:30-3:05 p.m. 
  • 10-week series: $140 + tax
  • 5-week series: $85 + tax
  • Single drop-in class: $20 + tax

CFPR Teens (ages 12-15)

  • Wednesdays, Oct.8-Dec.17 (no class Nov. 26)
  • 3:15-4 p.m.
  • 10-week series: $175 + tax
  • 5-week series: $100 + tax
  • Single drop-in class: $25 + tax

 Email info@cfpr.fitness to learn more or sign up!

Girls on the Run at the PNA

Attention 3rd-5th grade families! Girls on the Run at the PNA is seeking needs two more participants to join other Whittier and community members for their Fall session in order for the session to happen! They’re also seeking adult volunteers to coach. If you’d like to learn more information, please visit www.gotrpugetsound.org

Thank you, Wildcats!

PTA Meeting Minutes: 5/15/25

Whittier PTA Board Meeting
May 15, 2025
7:00pm Whittier Library & Zoom
Meeting ID: 817 3911 8250
Passcode: wildcats

BOARD MEMBERS / CHAIRS IN ATTENDANCE
Kate Lindsay Scher – Co-President
Allie DeLong Thomas – Co-President
Renee Hartnett – Vice President / Spirit Gear
Melissa Ivancevich – Co-Secretary
Emily Robertson – Co-Secretary
Michelle Nemeth – Treasurer
Meg Herscher – Communications Chair
Ashley Schiavone – Fundraising Co-Chair
Kathleen (Erin) Donahoe – Hospitality Co-Chair
Jess Twardzik – Hospitality Co-Chair
Meg Pietz – Events Chair
Emily Schweiger – Family and Community Engagement – Outreach Chair
Laura Zingg – Programs Co-Chair; Student Directory
Jen Foreman – Programs Co-Chair
Jon Overman – Legislative Representative
Anjean Vanden Bosch – Membership Chair
Kristin Laughlin – Volunteer Coordinator
Kiana Swearingen – Equity, Diversity & Inclusion Co-Chair
Jill Muscatel – Equity, Diversity & Inclusion (EDI) Co-Chair
Elan Simonson – Spring Fling Chair
Sara Lukas – Room Parent Coordinator
Nicole Kaczmarek – Member at Large

Courtney Sievers – Member at Large
COMMUNITY MEMBERS IN ATTENDANCE
● Principal Watters
● Mary Ann Rozance (PTA member)
● Brianna Mercker (PTA member)
● Yifat Gortler (PTA member)
● Haydee Wali (PTA member)
● Kyle Hiatt (PTA member)
● Dafna Amster Kahn (PTA member)
● Natalie Gromoff-Hiatt (PTA member)
● Aisling McCarron (PTA member)
● Therese Miranda-Blackney (PTA member)
● Brian Wold (PTA member)
Meeting Called to Order at 7:04 PM
Welcome & Call To Order
● Call to Order
● Table & Zoom Chat Informal Introductions
● Agenda
● Presentation

President Update
● Goals and Meetings Review
● Dashboard Review
● Board of Directors Vote and Work Session Updates
● Secret Celebration Update
● STEAM Lab Update
● School Board Director election update
● Upcoming Meetings & Summer Opportunities
○ 5/14 school board meeting
○ 6/3 good day for transitions
○ 6/7 work party moving classrooms
○ 6/10 end of year celebration

○ 8/26 – first PTA board meeting of the 2025-2026 school year

Principal Watters’ Report

● Question: asked parents to pay at the beginning of the year one price for field trips – was that a
good method?
○ General consensus in the room is yes
● 5th Grade Promotion
● Testing season
● Playground closed this summer and next – roof replacement project
● STEAM Lab
● Islandwood
○ Outdoor education grant no longer exists
○ Cost to families will be $600 (4 days, 3 nights – includes all costs, including teacher
stipends)
○ Looking for input from 4th grade families
● Math Agency
○ Not continuing partnership
○ Proposing to hire a FTE intervention & enrichment coordinator (Library Assistant) $70k
salary – would support intervention and extension for the 2025-2026 school year

● Classroom numbers:
○ 3 kinder, 3 first grade, 2 2nd grade, 2 3rd grade, 3 4th grade, and 2 5th grade classrooms

Chair & Lead Updates

● VP
○ 2024-2025 Current Executive Board
■ Co-President: Kate Scher
■ Co-President: Allie DeLong Thomas
■ VP: Renee Hartnett
■ Treasurer Michelle Nemeth
■ Co-Secretary: Emily Robertson

■ Co-Secretary: Melissa Ivancevich
■ Communications: Meg Herscher
○ 2025-2026 Proposed Executive Board Slate
■ President: Kate Scher
■ Vice President: Anika Anand
■ Treasurer: OPEN
■ Secretaries: Brian Wold & Mary Ann Rozance
■ Communications: OPEN
○ Golden Acorn Award: Kate Scher
● Treasurer
○ April report
■ Income: $33,130.49
● Big ticket items: $17,989 annual give; $14,682 Move-a-Thon
■ Expenses: $21,756.66
● Big ticket items: $1,397 Outreach; $3,659 staff discretionary fund

○ Financial Review committee volunteers
○ 2025-2026 Proposed Budget
■ Sent to all PTA members
■ Committee looked at budgets from 3 previous years
■ Adjusted line items, mostly small changes
■ Biggest changes related to staffing grant $118k to $130k
■ Added snack pantry of $4000
■ Moving from the Math Agency ($60,000) to STEAM Lab ($75,000)
■ Net projected budget is -$52,241 (typically -$18k to -20k projected during
budgeting)
● Totals are typically planned to be negative and end up on average $82k
higher due to fundraising success

● Spring Fling:
○ Venue change: Sunset Hill Community Hall
○ Time change: 6-9pm
○ Food change: Charcuterie, Crudite, and Pizza

○ Music: DJ Pool Party is spinning an all-vinyl yacht rock set
○ Tickets: About 40 tickets left!
○ Activities: Music, dancing, Golden Ticket, photo booth, 2 bars
○ Auction
■ You can still access the online auction to bid on buckets, buy hosted party
tickets, and more even if you don’t attend!
■ We’re still collecting silent auction donations! Submit yours before Silent Auction
catalog preview
■ Sign up for hosted parties! Talk to anyone you know that is considering!
Grade-level happy hours are in specific need!
■ Class Art Preview on 5/23 on the blacktop
■ Volunteers: Sign-up for a volunteer shift! There are 68 shifts to fill!! Many are
just 1-1.5 hours!!

● Hospitality
○ April Kindercat-1st Grade report
○ May Staff Appreciation Week report
○ 5th Grade promotion plan
● Outreach
○ KinderCat Welcome (6/11)
○ Popsicle Playdates,
■ Parks around the neighborhood
■ Two weekdays, one weekend
○ Kinder Mentor Program (Whittier family connections) – incoming kinder families can
connect with current families
● EDI Belonging Practice Journey
● Secretary: April Meeting Minutes
● Events:
○ Mariner’s report
● Volunteers (all open positions)
○ Spring Fling Day-of Help (68 volunteers): We need volunteers to make Spring Fling
happen on 5/31! Most shifts are 1-1.5 hours long and still allow lots of time to enjoy the
event. Learn more and sign-up >>

○ Pule’s Secret 25th Day-of Help (29 volunteers): We are seeking volunteers to help us
make this awesome event happen! Most shifts are 1-hour long. Alumni student and
family volunteers are welcome! Learn more and sign-up >>
○ Embroidery Volunteer (1): We are seeking one volunteer to help us embroider three
graphics onto a button down shirt as a gift for Mr. Pule! Reach out if you’re interested
and want to learn more >>
○ Popsicle Czar (1): We need one volunteer to help us coordinate popsicles for two events
(Pule’s Secret 25th on 6/6 and Field Day on 6/13). This volunteer will buy popsicles
(reimbursed by Whittier PTA), work with Whittier to store them, coordinate/borrow
coolers, and, day-of, buy ice and fill coolers with popsicles for other volunteers to pass
out. To learn more, contact: president@whittierptaseattle.org.
○ Whittier Work Party Volunteers (15): Join a crew of volunteers to help our Whittier staff!
On 6/7 from 9am-12pm, help us prepare classroom spaces for teachers to move into
next year. Please bring gloves, cleaning products, and rags to help make the work as fast
as possible. Learn more and sign-up >>
○ Whittier STEAM Lab Program Team (5+): Are you excited about shaping a brand-new
educational space? Whittier Elementary and the Whittier PTA are looking for community
members to join a STEAM Lab task force this summer! This group of leaders will
collaborate on designing the new STEAM Lab space, plan how teachers and volunteers
will use it, and help prepare the space and program for launch. Volunteers will attend a
kickoff meeting in May, meet periodically over the summer, and participate in hands-on
work sessions in late August and early September. No science background is
required—just a passion for creating a valuable resource for the Wildcat community! To
learn more, contact: president@whittierptaseattle.org.
○ Whittier STEAM Lab Experience Volunteers (6-12): Do you enjoy brainstorming creative
ideas and helping shape educational experiences? Whittier Elementary and the Whittier
PTA are seeking community volunteers to help develop a yearlong set of science-focused
activities—including demonstrations, invention projects, and games—that will support
classroom instruction and engage K–5 students in hands-on learning. Volunteers will
work independently and remotely from mid-May through June 2025 to design these
activities, with opportunities in early September to finalize plans and collaborate with
fellow community members who will bring the ideas to life in the school’s new STEAM

Lab. No teaching or science background is needed—we’ll support you every step of the
way! To learn more, contact: president@whittierptaseattle.org.
● Communications: Reminder for remaining comms for the year
● After School Programs update
● Support: Transition instructions

8:15-8:25pm – Voting
● 2025-2026 Whittier PTA Exec Board
○ Motion: Jen Foreman
○ Second: Ashley Schiavone
○ Ballots and zoom poll
○ Approved
● 2025-2026 Whittier PTA Budget
○ Motion: Anjean Bosch
○ Second: Kianna Swearingen
○ Approved
● April meeting minutes
○ Motion: Sara Lukas
○ Second: Allie DeLong Thomas
○ Approved
● Funding Proposal #1 – Secret Celebration
○ Motion: Jen Foreman
○ Second: Kate Scher
○ Approved
● Funding Proposal #2 – Sweatbands
○ Motion: Hanni Pichel
○ Second: Allie DeLong Thomas
○ Approved
8:25-8:30pm – Kudos & Thank You’s
8:31pm – Adjourned
Post-Meeting Gathering at Phinney Station

PTA Meeting Agenda (10/14/25)

Whittier PTA Monthly Meeting


Agenda

7-7:05pm – Welcome & Call To Order

  • Call to Order
  • Table & Zoom Chat Informal Introductions

7:05-7:15pm – President Update

7:15-8:00pm – Teacher Panel facilitated by Principal Watters

8:00-8:20pm – Chair Updates

8:20-8:25pm – Voting

8:25-8:30pm – Kudos & Thank Yous

8:30pm – Adjourn

Post-Meeting Gathering at Phinney Station


Resources