Dear Parents and Students,

As one school year comes to a close, it seems like ages before the next will begin, but not so!  Summer has a way of rolling past us faster and faster each year.  This is especially true for the executive board of your KPSPTO, who never seem to stop planning events, arranging for services and gathering support for our children.  As your president, I can say without reservation that we are all in for a terrific 2008-09 school year!

Why? Because we have the absolute best team assembled to make things happen. Donna Perrault, who has graciously made the move from Fundraising Coordinator to Vice President, is on board to make sure that the sense and sensibility of every parent is reflected in everything we do.  Mariehelena Munz-Fusco has switched roles with Anne Carmody.  Mariehelena will serve as our Treasuer and Anne as our Recording Secretary.  Both are finely suited to their new roles and have taken to their new responsibilities like practiced veterans.  Amy Conroy, marshalling our fantastic core of parent volunteers along with Volunteer Coordinator Vanessa Longo and Chairperson Margo Mueller, will continue in her role as Events Coordinator, and we can all count ourselves lucky because of it.  Kathy Green has consented to remain our Advertising/Procurement Coordinator, and there's no one better to make sure you get the information you need, when you need it.  Our newest member, Michelle Yorio will be taking over the Fundraising Coordinator duties, but that's just the tip of the iceberg where Michelle is concerned.  She's a woman of many ideas, with the ability to see them through to fruition. But the best news of all is You, and your involvement in the coming school year!  It's because of you, your time and your support that makes it all possible. We are all volunteers, giving of our time and talents to make a great school like KPS even better, and we couldn't do it without you.

There will be plenty to keep us all busy this year...events and programs that are sure to provide something for everyone.  Some old favorites will fill the calendar alongside some fresh new ideas, and we hope you and your family will be there to enjoy them.  Familiar events like the Monster Mash, a newly-revamped Holiday Festival and Family Bingo Night will share the spotlight with new traditions like the KPS Talent Showcase, Magic Night, a new way for the whole family to experience Author's Day and much, much more.  Scrips is back, too!  It's a great way to support KPS without spending any extra $$$.  Kim Franz has assumed the role of Scrip Chairperson, and this year's program is sure to be bigger and better!
All the details will be coming home in the backpacks, as well as being included on our website.  Please be sure to check your child's backpack every day.

Speaking of backpacks, we generate a lot of paper, and I know that most of it ends up in the ol' "circular file", (not yours, of course, but some people...).  I would love to have a paperless KPSPTO, with all of our information reaching you via email.  I realize that we not there yet as a community, but I encourage you to sign up for our email alerts if you haven't already done so. 

You can sign up by following this link http://www.kpspto.org/KPS_news_signup.htm 

These email alerts will keep you informed of what's coming up for you and your child at KPS, along with all the new events and programs we'll be offering this year.

And, by the way, I know that there is usually something that comes home from your KPSPTO each week, with a tear-off, or another way for you to get involved.  I realize that you can't be at every event or support every service.  It's ok.  We offer so much for two reasons; One, because they're our kids and we love them and we want to do as much as we can for them. And two, because we feel that if we offer many different programs, events and services, we'll have something that truly appeals to everyone.  The more the merrier!
For some, a flat out donation is preferable to the many fundraising requests throughout the year.  If this works for you, make sure you request a letter of donation from us.  Your support may be tax deductible, (consult your tax professional).

As I look forward to a new year for my children at KPS, I am honored to be accepted as your president.  It's a big job, but I know that with the team we have assembled, there's only one thing more I need to make it a great year...You!  Consider signing up for a committee or to help out at an event.  It doesn't have to be all of your free time.  An hour or two here and there makes a tremendous difference.  It's fun, (just ask anyone who volunteered to help with last year's Tie Dye project), you get a bit more knowledge about how your child's school works, and, best of all, your kids see you putting a value on pitching in and helping out.  It makes them want to help too!  You'll be amazed when your child cleans their room, and completes all their chores without being asked! (Ok, I made that last part up, but the value thing is true).

If you ever need to contact any of us, please don't hesitate.  You can find our contact information here http://www.kpspto.org/contactus.htm

See you around school!