TY FOR TCAPS

I was at DeWeese Hardware last week and noticed one of these signs in the window.

It’s a simple reminder of something that’s easy to overlook: our local businesses quietly investing in our neighborhood schools.

Our elementary PTOs are independent nonprofit organizations, led by a board of parent volunteers who work closely with teachers and principals to support their school communities.

They help fund field trips, after-school enrichment, family events, reading nights, school connectedness programs, playground balls and jump ropes, and countless other learning experiences that might not otherwise happen.

As we developed our new 2030 Vision*, one of the priorities we identified was expanding opportunities for students—especially by helping ensure that every student has access to those opportunities.

We know that learning doesn’t stop when the dismissal bell rings.

• Clubs

• Arts

• STEM

• Athletics

• Family engagement nights

• Field trips

• Outdoor learning

These experiences help students build confidence, discover new interests, strengthen relationships, and develop a deeper sense of belonging.

They matter academically, too.

That’s why I’m grateful for businesses like The Copy Shop, DeWeese, Troposphere Legal, and so many others that choose to invest directly in their neighborhood schools through our local PTOs.

It’s a reminder that public education is strongest when it’s supported not only by educators and families, but by an entire community that believes in its kids.

Thank you to every business, volunteer, donor, and PTO leader helping create more opportunities for our kids.

That’s what a great community investing in great schools looks like.

* Learn more about our new 5-year strategic plan: https://bit.ly/tcaps-values

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