Family Association
Join the Conversation
Founded by families, Creative Arts Charter School (CACS) has always been a place where family engagement is at the heart of our educational and community values. We invite you to roll up your sleeves and pitch in to make a difference in our vibrant community!
Family Association’s Mission
Our mission is to build an inclusive community and enhance educational experiences at CACS. The Family Association (FA) aims to foster a supportive environment where every family feels welcome and valued. By encouraging active participation, we strive to:
- Build Community: Strengthening connections among families, teachers, and staff to create a sense of belonging and mutual support.
- Coordinate Volunteers: Organizing volunteer efforts to support classroom activities, school events, and fundraising initiatives, ensuring that every family can contribute in a meaningful way.
- Promote Communication: Facilitating open and effective communication within the community to keep everyone informed and engaged.
Participation is crucial to the daily operations of CACS. Family involvement enriches the nature and quality of learning with diverse cultural heritages, languages, beliefs, values, and family differences. These contributions help create a warm, inclusive climate for learning, communication, and cooperation among our students.
Meetings
Join us at FA meetings for:
- Community Engagement "Working" sessions
- Parent education about CACS and various topics with guest speakers
- As always, dinner and free childcare are provided
Events
Participate in our annual events:
- All-School Clean-up Day (August)
- Fall Fair (October)
- All-School Picnic (Fall)
- School-based Community Meetings led by students and staff, coffee provided (3 Fridays a month)
- Family Hosted, Teacher appreciation lunches (Tuesdays, classes rotate throughout the year)
- Art and Academic Exhibition nights for the whole family
Getting Involved
At CACS, family participation is one of our founding principles. We believe that family involvement in education boosts a child's personal growth and academic achievement. Every family is automatically a member of the Family Association, with no dues or sign-ups required.
Historically, when families contribute around 20 hours of volunteerism, the school year runs smoother and is more fulfilling for everyone. While 20 hours is an aspirational goal, any time you can give is valuable and appreciated. Your involvement can turn a good school year into a great one!
Opportunities include:
- Volunteering in classrooms
- Morning drop-off zone safety volunteer
- Helping in the school office
- Supporting events like the Fall Fair and Annual Auction
- Participating in clean-up days
- Representing CACS at outreach events
- Chaperoning field trips
- Attending FA meetings and planning sessions
How to Volunteer
- The FA maintains a list of upcoming volunteer opportunities online, and a "Volunteer Roundup" is emailed weekly and on an as-needed basis to all families.
- Class Representatives post volunteer requests specific to classroom needs or when the FA is short helpers for school-wide events.
- OR Contact the FA Volunteer Committee Directly: volunteer(at)creativeartscharter.org
Planning Committee
The FA Planning Committee meets regularly to plan events and policies. Join a meeting, consider a leadership role, or simply share your input!
Structure and Budget
The FA operates with a budget funded by the Fall Fair and Everyday Fundraising programs. Major fundraisers like the Annual Fund and Auction are managed by the CACS Board of Directors, with FA support through volunteer coordination.
Fundraising
CACS relies on a combination of state funding and community fundraising to support our unique programs. Your involvement is crucial in maintaining high attendance rates and participating in fundraising events to ensure financial health and program continuity.
Together, we create a thriving community where every voice matters and every contribution counts. Join us and make a meaningful impact at Creative Arts Charter School!
Contact: volunteer(at)creativeartscharter.org