Parents' Association

List of 8 frequently asked questions.

• What Do Parents' Association Dues Support?

  Parents' Association dues help support community-building opportunities throughout the year, including events such as Fall Festival, division-specific gatherings, family events, teacher and staff appreciation efforts, and other initiatives that help bring Orchard families together. These funds help strengthen connections across our community and support experiences that enrich school life for students, families, faculty, and staff.

• Why did orchard transition from a traditional parents' association board to the community ambassador program?

  As part of broader governance and community engagement conversations that have taken place over the past two years, orchard explored new ways to support parent involvement and collaboration across the school. Drawing from independent school best practices, guidance from educational consultants, and feedback from community members, the community ambassador program emerged as an opportunity to build upon the parents' association's longstanding tradition of volunteerism and partnership.
  
  

  The new structure creates additional opportunities for parents and guardians to become involved in ways that align with their interests, talents, and availability while working alongside faculty, staff, school leadership, and the board of directors in support of the orchard community.

• How do I become a volunteer?

  We'd love to have you involved. Parents and guardians can complete the volunteer interest form or contact orchardpa@orchard.org to learn more about current opportunities and ambassador teams.

• Can I participate on more than one ambassador team?

  Parents and guardians are encouraged to identify a primary ambassador team based on their interests. However, there will be many opportunities throughout the year to support initiatives and events across multiple teams and areas of the school.

• How much time is involved?

  Volunteer opportunities vary widely throughout the year. Some families may choose to help with a single event, concessions shift, classroom activity, or faculty appreciation effort, while others may take on ongoing projects or leadership roles. We welcome all levels of involvement and are grateful for any time families are able to contribute.

• Who should I contact with questions, ideas, or feedback?

  Please contact director of community engagement vanessa bertoni-mcelroy with any questions about the parents' association community ambassador program, volunteer opportunities, or ways to become involved.

• How are ambassador team leaders selected?

  Ambassador team leaders are selected through a collaborative process involving school leadership and members of the board's community engagement committee. Consideration is given to a variety of factors, including interest, experience, availability, and the needs of each team.

• Do I need previous volunteer experience to get involved?

  Not at all. We welcome parents and guardians who are interested in becoming involved, regardless of prior volunteer experience. Whether you're new to orchard or have been part of the community for years, there are many ways to contribute, and we'll help connect you with opportunities that match your interests and availability.