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: Reflections Co-Chair & Membership Chair
Reflections Co-Chair The Reflections Chair owns the Reflections program at Stillwater, with the added benefit of creative support from our wonderful art teacher, Mrs. Carosino. You’d gather promotional materials from WA State PTA, work with the Communications Chair to advertise the contest, and collaborate with Mrs. Carosino to plan knowledge-sharing sessions with students. You’d also manage artwork intake, communicate with parents when issues arise, and help celebrate our artists at Stillwater. This position liaises with a board member for updates.
Membership Chair The Membership Chair coordinates our year-round membership drive, maintaining a presence at school events and actively seeking out the Stillwater community for new memberships. You’d manage all membership forms, dues, and tracking, maintain the official PTSA membership list, and verify state invoices for payment. This role also coordinates the Kindergarten Play Date before the school year begins, oversees hospitality at General Meetings, and maintains a “Welcome Packet” for new families in the front office. This position attends all Board and General Meetings and provides monthly newsletter updates on membership counts and news.
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(opens in new tab)
👉 Have questions? Email me at president@stillwaterptsa.org
👉 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
