Students enjoy a beautiful fall day on the lawn of ACS

Are you concerned with what’s happening in our schools or the state of education today? Are you a parent or guardian for a student attending Andes Central School?  If you answered, “Yes,” to any of these questions, you are invited to become an active member of the Andes PTSA.

“In past years, a person had to pay to join our PTSA so only those who paid were considered members,” explained Andes PTSA president John Fitzgerald. “Active members were those rare few willing to come to the monthly meetings, assist with the fundraisers, and share their insights.  This year we decided to change our membership policy 180 degrees.  The result, we hope, is a much more welcoming and inclusive organization.”

This year, the Andes Parent, Teacher, and Student Association will cover the necessary NY state membership fees.  This allows them to consider everyone in the community a member.

“Now, being an Active member is easier than ever,” said PTSA secretary David Cyrelson.  “Just send me an email ( cyrelson@catskill.net ) or get your info to the school superintendent’s secretary, Jan Stevens, and you will be in the loop.  You will get the PTSA meeting agendas and the ability to offer your suggestions without ever having to attend a meeting in  person.”

Cyrelson says they know folks are busy and don’t want to be sucked into endless voluntary service even for a good cause – like our kids.  So the PTSA is asking parents, guardians, and interested community members to give just two hours of assistance between now and the end of school in June.

There are a variety of ways to serve.  The PTSA has several major events planned for this academic year – A holiday season child sitting service, a day of Easter egg hunts and activities, and a family overnight campout in June – all in need of volunteers.  In addition, there are on-going projects like the First Wednesday activities, book fair support, and academic incentive and reward programs also in need of assistance and support.

The national standards (goals) of the PTA are: To welcome all families into the school community; To provide a clear and effective channel between families and the school staff; To support student success; To advocate for the best learning environment for our kids; and To collaborate with the community to expand learning opportunities, community service, and civic participation.

If you have any suggestions on how the PTSA can better reach these goals or wish to be an Active member in any capacity, please don’t hesitate to contact the Andes PTSA.