August 2019
I was recently asked to reflect on my time as the César Chávez PTA Secretary to give folks a sense of what serving on the PTA Executive Committee was like. In 2017 at a community meeting discussing the formation of a PTA at César Chávez, it was necessary for there to be an interim secretary, president and treasurer to form the organization and follow department of justice rules for nonprofits. I was nominated that night as secretary and accepted. I was then voted in for a two year term as secretary at the end of the school year in 2017. I have now served two plus years as the secretary of the PTA.
My experience on the executive committee of the PTA (the executive committee currently consists of two co-presidents, secretary, treasurer and membership chair) has been a wonderful learning experience. My role as secretary includes taking notes at executive committee meetings (which happen 2-4 times per month), and at general PTA membership meetings (which happen 8 times in the school year). I also keep records for the organization, and communicate with Oregon PTA regarding the Chávez PTA membership.
The best experiences from my time with the executive committee have been the friendships that I have made with the other board members and among the parent community at the school. This position has provided me with a clearer understanding of how the school works and has helped me feel connected to the school and parent/caregiver community. I have learned so much from other parents and have gained knowledge around equity and diversity, educational policy, event planning and so much more.
I plan to continue to stay involved in the PTA moving forward. I have an interest in fundraising efforts and grant writing and hope to get more involved in and being a part of the auction committee next year. I encourage anyone interested in getting involved to consider executive committee service, it is an opportunity to learn and get involved in the wider Chávez community.
Thank you!
Leah Hinson
