DIRECTORY CHAIR:
AtoZ Connect is the platform we use to generate our school directory and facilitate communication with fellow Louise Archer ES families. New families joining LAES need to set up an AtoZ Connect account to feature in the directory and access information online. Returning families can view and modify their contact details from the previous year after logging in. Additionally, they have the option to update their contact information and privacy preferences. Every family has the choice to select which details are visible to other LAES families.
INTERNATIONAL NIGHT COMMITTEE:
The International Night Committee oversees the organization and promotion of this cultural celebration which honors the rich international diversity within our community. Featuring booths representing various countries and regions, performances showcasing diverse cultural practices, and an array of global cuisine. Depending on each country’s choice, there may be art and craft activities, games, and more. Sponsored annually by the Louise Archer PTA, this free and fun-filled event benefits from two chairs who will serve as project managers: assisting with planning, promotion, organizing family activities, eliciting volunteers, and managing set-up and clean-up tasks. Please consider signing up to lend a hand in various capacities to support the event.
MEMBERSHIP COORDINATOR:
The membership committee’s responsibilities include planning and executing a membership campaign to attract new members and retain existing ones, highlighting current member benefits to enhance the value of PTA membership, setting attainable membership goals for the year, and creating a membership theme if appropriate. Developing a calendar of membership events throughout the year. Establishing a budget to support membership initiatives and events. Attending PTA events and promoting membership throughout the year. Recognizing and celebrating the positive effects of volunteer work and school collaborations on students, families, and the school community by nominating them for Virginia PTA Local Impact awards.
NOMINATING COMMITTEE:
This committee nominates and presents a slate of officers at the May PTA General Meeting for the following school year. Committee members should be well[1]acquainted with the membership and have a basic understanding of PTA operations. Their responsibilities include electing nominating committee chairperson; Holding meetings to identify suitable candidates for executive board positions and any vacant committee chair roles; Referring potential volunteers to the relevant vice presidents for committee assignments. contacting individuals to determine their willingness to serve in the nominated role; and presenting a slate of officers at the May PTA General Meeting.
ODYSSEY OF THE MIND COORDINATOR:
Help organize teams — including students and volunteer parent coaches — for the Odyssey of the Mind problem-solving competition. This program runs typically from Sep/Oct through March. The coordinator is the liaison for registering the school and providing necessary resources to families interested in participation. The bulk of the work for the coordinator is in September, gauging student and parent interest and then facilitating the formation of teams.
REFLECTIONS COMMITTEE:
Chair the committee that runs the Reflections program, a national PTA arts competition. The work of this committee and its chair is primarily from September to November and includes advertising the program to Louise Archer students, setting up a digital submissions process, organizing entries and forms for community judges, recruiting (as needed) and engaging with volunteer community judges, planning an awards celebration for November, and working with the Fairfax County regional PTA for advancing top entries. In addition to 1-2 chair(s) this committee benefits from 4 members.
SAFE ROUTES / WALKING WEDNESDAYS:
Walk and bike to school events are planned activities designed to emphasize healthy habits and endorse SRTS (Safe Routes to School) programs by creating a dedicated opportunity to engage students in walking or biking to school. “Walk to School Week” has grown into an international phenomenon and is celebrated on the first Wednesday of October. October is now recognized as International Walk to School Month and is celebrated in over 40 countries by millions of walking participants; however, walk and bike to school events can take many forms, and can be held any time throughout the school year.
SEPTA LIAISON:
A Special Education PTA (SEPTA) is a PTA organization affiliated with the Virginia State (VAPTA) and National PTA, which specifically focuses on meeting the unique needs of special education, special needs, and disabled students and families. Responsibilities include promoting understanding, tolerance, and acceptance of children with different abilities; serving as points of contact for families interested in connecting with another parent of a child with special needs in individual schools; acting as a liaison between Louise Archer PTA and SEPTA and promoting SEPTA involvement of LAES parents; as well as fostering connections and providing support.
SILENT AUCTION CHAIR:
This role involves choosing an auction platform and event date. While no licensing is required for a silent auction, it’s essential to adhere to the Sale of Goods Act when describing items and stating their value. Seek donations for auction prizes, maintain records of supporters and their contributions, and engage with past and current donors. Generate anticipation by promoting prizes on social media, prepare thank[1]you letters, craft descriptions, and create images for an online auction. Manage winners, distribute prizes, and communicate collection and payment details within a specified timeline. Keep comprehensive notes on each prize’s earnings and popular bids for future reference.
VOLUNTEER COORDINATOR:
Oversee our extensive group of general volunteers who are enthusiastic about contributing to LAES. Whenever a committee requires staffing or an event needs additional support, our Volunteer Coordinator is contacted. They then distribute the necessary information to our list of general volunteers. Also manages the Sign-Up Genius account.