A blog about moving to, and living in Naperville, Illinois

Does Naperville School District 203 have a PTA?

My kid started kindergarten in District 203 last month. During parent orientation, they presented information about 203’s version of the PTA:

The Naperville District 203 Home & School Association’s mission is to encourage and facilitate a cooperative partnership among our students, parents/guardians, and District staff and administration to support and enhance the school experience of each student. Home & School initiates and/or supports various programs through the donation of time and sponsorship from its District school population and community members. Home & School remains constantly fluid to meet the ever-changing needs of our diverse student population.”

I knew I needed to get involved. I was not that excited about what my options would be. Wow, was I wrong. Turns out my idea of what the PTA does was very outdated. There’s an amazing number of ways for volunteers to get involved. I spent a good part of my recent career at a VC-backed technology accelerator, so I was thrilled to learn of 203’s entrepreneurship pathway.

The kids in this program are learning how to start with an idea, pitch their product, and accelerate their business. I attended the kickoff yesterday and was blown away at the caliber of the students and the program.

Between my two kids, I have about 17 years of volunteering ahead of me. I’m grateful there are so many awesome ways to contribute.