Maitri Shockley Grace, Eve Eon, and Michele Rodriguez (PTSA President) at a PTSA Meeting / Photographer: Anji Ringzin
Laughter, smiles, and happy yells fill the air as little kids glide on the gym floor, experiencing the joy and sense of community that comes with roller skating. These young children, wearing their itty-bitty roller skates, embrace the adventure of maneuvering on eight wheels instead of walking in their everyday shoes. But who takes charge of facilitating this socialization? It’s the PTSA.
The Parent Teacher Student Association is a non-profit organization dedicated to advocating for children. All the money raised by the PTSA, whether through roller skating events or other fundraisers like renting the bouncy house, goes back into the district. During the 2022-2023 school year, the PTSA has seen a rise in gross profits as roller skating has become a beloved activity among families and community members. The PTSA’s Roller Skating night also serves as a community service opportunity, supporting OIHS students by providing them with a chance to accumulate the required five community service hours per semester.
Looking ahead, it is hoped that more OIHS students will take part in this opportunity to contribute to the community, skate, and fulfill the requirements of their Advisory class.
As the school year comes to a close, roller skating activities have temporarily ceased. The PTSA’s focus has shifted to organizing events such as Teacher Appreciation Week (May 8-12) and preparing for the leadership elections for the upcoming school year. Additionally, the demand for roller skating nights has decreased as the sun emerges, casting its light on blooming flowers and lush green grass.
The Class of 2024 took charge and organized Roller Skating Night on April 8. On that evening, all the money raised was generously donated by the PTSA to support the class’s various endeavors, including the 2023 Prom, Graduation, and unexpected expenses that may arise.
After facing the challenges brought about by the COVID-19 pandemic in the 2020-2021 era, the PTSA has been striving to regain its momentum. Previously, the PTSA had a more active group of parents involved. However, currently, it consists of only two families, totaling seven individuals, along with one OIHS senior who actively participate.
Recent meetings have seen a low turnout, with only five people in attendance. With the inclusion of two high school members, the PTSA has increased its support for the High School, offering community service opportunities to students. This shift is significant since the PTSA’s historical focus had primarily been on supporting the Elementary School. Looking forward, the PTSA aims to engage more Parents, Teachers, and High School Students in the upcoming school year. For more information about meeting schedules, it is advised to visit the PTSA’s Facebook page or Instagram.