The contributions of the PTA can loosely be divided into two categories: in-class enrichment and support, and extracurricular events. Below is an incomplete list that gives a sense of what we do.
In-class Enrichment and Support
- Music enrichment classes. Grade K-5 music enrichment classes (half year) fully funded by the PTA.
- Chess enrichment classes. Program that teaches chess to third graders fully funded by the PTA.
- Poets in schools program. A program that brings outside poet-teachers into the 5th grade classroom; fully funded by the PTA.
- Funding and coordination for assemblies. A variety of enriching schoolwide assemblies (e.g. the Pacific Sticks Quartet percussion group, the Red Panda Chinese Acrobats); fully funded and coordinated by the PTA.
- Funding for field trips
- Funding for Library. The PTA runs the scholastic book fair that brought in around 8K along with numerous book donations for the library this year. In addition, the PTA funds certain library magazine subscriptions.
- Walk-through American Revolution. An outside educational event for 5th graders that teaches about the American Revolution in an interactive way; fully funded by the PTA.
- Contribution to classroom supplies
- Contribution to PE supplies. Contribution of $500 for balls and other PE supplies.
- Earthquake supplies. Funds earthquake supplies for the school and each individual classroom.
- Supplemental funding of Noon Supervisors
- Creation and support of Edible Garden. PTA started and continues to support the garden with money and volunteer work.
- Landscape and Cornell crew. PTA supports the Crew volunteers who do landscaping and non-structural building and facilities repair and maintenance.
Extracurricular events
- Graduation. The PTA contributes to the festive fifth grade graduation celebration by providing snacks, cake, and beverages.
- Arts Fair.
- Ice cream Wednesdays. The PTA hosts a Wednesday afternoon tradition: socializing and modestly priced ice cream treats.
- Albany bowling party.
- International Potluck.
- Silly Olympics. The PTA hosts and organizes an all day carnival of fun and sillyness.