From One Kinder Mom to Another: Why the PTSA Matters
A Letter to Stillwater Families, Especially Our Newest Ones 💙
Dear Stillwater Families,
If you’re reading this as an incoming kindergarten parent, first: welcome. You are about to join one of the most wonderful school communities out there, and I am so glad you’re here.
My name is Lindsey Tolson, and I’m the current Stillwater PTSA President. I live in Duvall with my husband, Mitch, and our four kids: a kindergartener, a 4th grader, an 11th grader, and a Class of 2026 graduate who recently enlisted in the Army. This is my 12th year as a Stillwater parent, and even though I’ve done this before, I still get those first-day butterflies. There’s something about sending your baby off to school that never gets old.
I spent my first seven years at Stillwater deeply involved in the PTSA, serving as Treasurer, VP, President, and Fundraising Chair before “retiring” for a few years. Well… retirement didn’t stick. 😂 I’m back, and I’m more passionate than ever about this community.
What Is the PTSA and Why Does It Matter?
The PTSA (Parent-Teacher-Student Association) is the bridge between families and our school. We are parent volunteers who work alongside Stillwater’s incredible staff to make sure our kids have the best possible experience. The PTSA funds and supports:
• 🎨 Art, PE, Music, and Library programs
• 🚌 Field trips
• 📚 Classroom supplies so teachers aren’t paying out of pocket
• 🏫 Staff grants to bring educators’ best ideas to life
• 🎉 Community events that make Stillwater feel like family
None of this happens without fundraising and volunteers. This year’s fundraising goal is just under $42,000, and every dollar goes directly back to supporting our kids and our school.
We Need You
Right now, we have several vital positions that need to be filled for the 2026–2027 school year.
Our Greatest Need: Fundraising Chair
Without fundraising, we simply don’t have the funds to give back to Stillwater. The good news? We’re simplifying things this year, moving to one fall donation-based fundraiser and partnering with a third-party company to help run it. You’d research options, bring recommendations to the Board, and help coordinate the campaign, along with smaller efforts like dining nights and direct-sale fundraisers throughout the year.
Time commitment: About 10 hours/month on average, with a busier stretch of 15–20 hours/week for 2–3 weeks during the main fundraiser. You’ll have the full Board behind you every step of the way. And if the “Board position” part feels like a big commitment, we can adjust the role to a Leadership Team position so you wouldn’t need to attend monthly board meetings.
Other Open Positions
• Membership
• Reflections
• Communications Support
• Online Contest
• Pottery Night Lead
Whether you have a little time or a lot, there is a place for you here.
Why I’m Asking You
I know kindergarten parents are in a unique spot. Everything is new, and volunteering might feel like one more thing on an already full plate.
But here’s what I’ve learned after 12 years: getting involved in the PTSA is one of the best ways to feel at home at Stillwater. You meet other parents, you get to know the staff, and you feel connected not just to the building but to the community raising your kids alongside you.
You don’t have to be an expert. You don’t have to have done this before. You just have to care, and if you’re reading this, I already know you do.
Get Involved
👉 Learn more about open positions: Open PTSA Positions for 2026–2027
👉 Have questions? Email me at president@stillwaterptsa.org
👉 **Join me for PTSA Office Hours!** On Wednesday, September 9 from 12:00–1:00 PM PT, I’ll be hosting a casual Zoom session where you can drop in and ask any questions you have about the PTSA, open positions, or anything else. No pressure to sign up for anything. Just come say hi! Email president@stillwaterptsa.org to get the Zoom info.
👉 Support the PTSA today: Visit stillwaterptsa.givebacks.com/shop to purchase memberships, order yearbooks, or make a donation.
I came out of PTSA retirement because I believe in this school and these families. Now I’m asking you to join me. Come be part of something that matters. 💙
Warm regards,
Lindsey Tolson
Stillwater PTSA President
Proud Stillwater parent, year 12 and counting
