PTA Board 2026-27

The 2026-27 Board
Position Descriptions

The 2026-27 Board

President
Priscila Castello Branco Russomanno

Vice President
Luciana Medicis

Treasurer
Carolina Queiroz Hallack

Secretary
Ligia Manzano Rosenberg

Early Years Representatives
Andrea Marques (Pre-kindergarten)
Patricia Giacometti (Kindergarten)

Lower School Representatives
Ana Helena Almeida Junqueira (1st Grade)
Carolina Sabbagh Gholmia Drevon (2nd Grade)
Vivian Song (3rd Grade)
Fabiana Scalamandré Fernandes (4th Grade)
Becky Roman (5th Grade)

Middle School Representatives
Isabelle Miller (6th Grade)
Giselle Arippol (7th Grade)
Sandra Chen (8th Grade)

High School Representatives
Viridiana Estrada Mendes de Castro (9th Grade)
Patricia Christiani Campbell (10th Grade)
Lily Lee (11th Grade)
Andrea Pilnik (12th Grade)

Logistics Chair
Mylena Kalil

Fine Arts Chair
Luiza von Mutius Hallack

Thanksgiving Chairs
Cynthia Catlett
Laura Becker

7 de Setembro Chair | Brazilian Studies Representative
Maria Eugenia Belluca Assad

Festa dos Funcionários Chair
Anna Luisa Azevedo
Paula Costa

Celebration of the World Chairs
Andrea Viera Baptista
Gabriela Saad Azem

Teacher Appreciation Week Chairs
Camila Appendino
Julia Rutkowski

Book Club Chair
Janaina Fiorini

Festa Junina Chair
Amanda Rossetto
Beatriz Bueno de Moraes Gomes de Sá

Welcome New Families Chairs
Cristina Biancastelli
Maria Augusta de Bueno Vidigal Lerro

Outreach Program Chair
Simone Borsandi

EMBRACE Chairs
Lara Eckmann
Martha Isabel Holguin Valencia

Position Descriptions

President

The President of the Parent Teacher Association (PTA) plays a vital role in ensuring the organization operates effectively. Key responsibilities include:

Overseeing and coordinating: Lead and coordinate the work of the Executive Board, working closely with PTA leaders to support smooth operations.
Collaborating with school administration: Partner with school administrators to address parent questions, concerns, and issues. As the PTA’s official representative, the President serves as a bridge between parents and the school.
Communicating and representing the PTA: Serve as the Graded PTA’s primary contact, communicator, and representative, engaging with parents, school leaders, and other stakeholders.
Resolving issues promptly: Address matters in a timely, concise, and positive manner to help foster a constructive PTA experience.
Planning the calendar: Collaborate with the school to coordinate the PTA calendar, typically in June, before the start of the next school year.
Providing financial oversight: Work with the Treasurer to monitor operating expenses across all committees throughout the academic year. Regular meetings help ensure finances remain on track.
Supporting committees: Check in with committee leaders, encourage participation in events, and help ensure plans stay on schedule.
Presiding over meetings: Lead monthly PTA Board meetings, facilitating productive discussion and informed decision-making.
Approving communications: Review and approve the PTA Newsletter in collaboration with the Communications team, as well as messages sent by division representatives on behalf of the PTA across communication channels.

The President’s positive leadership is central to the PTA’s success, strengthening community and supporting student learning.

Vice President

The Parent Teacher Association (PTA) Vice President plays a multifaceted and essential role in supporting the organization’s success. Key responsibilities include:

Serving as the President’s primary aide: Work closely with the President to provide essential support and help lead the PTA toward goals aligned with its purpose and policies.
Assuming the President’s duties when needed: In the President’s absence, preside over meetings and help ensure the PTA’s operations continue smoothly.
Supporting day-to-day operations: Participate actively in the PTA’s ongoing activities and help maintain effective operations.
Overseeing the Senior Community Service Award: Manage the award program, ensuring its successful implementation and meaningful recognition of students.
Supporting party committees: Collaborate with committees to organize events, fundraisers, and activities.
Meeting regularly with the Executive Board: Stay connected with fellow board members to discuss strategies, address challenges, and strengthen teamwork.

The Vice President’s commitment and active engagement contribute significantly to the PTA’s mission of enriching the lives of children and families.

Treasurer

The PTA Treasurer plays a vital role in ensuring the organization's financial health and integrity. Key responsibilities include:

Developing the annual budget: Work closely with the PTA Board to prepare the budget, using budget templates and financial planning tools as appropriate to support efficient, strategic planning.
Maintaining financial records: Serve as the custodian of all PTA funds; maintain accurate, up-to-date financial records; and monitor financial performance, recommending budget adjustments as needed.
Preparing financial reports: Present regular financial reports at Board and Association meetings and provide an annual report summarizing the PTA’s financial position and activities.
Supporting event committees: Partner with event committee chairs on all financial matters, including tracking expenses, sales, revenue, and profits for PTA events and fundraisers.
Serving as the financial point of contact: Act as the primary contact for all PTA financial inquiries and demonstrate proficiency in Microsoft Excel and other financial management tools as needed.
Ensuring timely recordkeeping: Maintain organized, up-to-date financial records and provide the PTA Board with accurate financial updates and profit summaries.
Communicating financial procedures: At the beginning of each school year, clearly communicate financial policies, procedures, and expense approval processes to all relevant stakeholders.

The Treasurer’s commitment and careful financial stewardship help ensure that PTA resources are managed responsibly and aligned with the organization’s mission to support educational programs and strengthen the school community.

Secretary

The Secretary plays a vital role in supporting the Executive Board, maintaining official records, and overseeing the PTA’s communications. Key responsibilities include:

Managing Board meetings: Attend and organize all PTA Board meetings, track attendance, record accurate minutes—including motions and decisions—and distribute meeting minutes to the full Board.
Supporting Board leadership: Assist the President in facilitating efficient and productive meetings and provide administrative support to the President, Vice President, and Treasurer as needed.
Maintaining institutional knowledge: Stay informed about PTA activities, initiatives, and ongoing projects to ensure accurate recordkeeping and communication.
Safeguarding official records: Maintain and protect all official and permanent PTA records, including original meeting minutes, ensuring they are organized, secure, and accessible.
Coordinating annual elections: Organize and oversee the annual PTA election process, including nominations, voting procedures, and the communication of results.
Managing official communications: Oversee the official PTA email account and serve as a key coordinator of PTA communications.
Preparing the PTA Newsletter: Draft and distribute the PTA Newsletter in coordination with the President and Executive Board, as needed.
Supporting community communications: Draft and distribute messages through grade-level WhatsApp groups and other official communication channels, as appropriate.
Coordinating event communications: Review, coordinate, and distribute event-related communications through grade-level WhatsApp groups and other official communication channels, ensuring alignment with the Executive Board when required.
Ensuring communication quality: Maintain clear, consistent, and appropriate communication with the school community, including parents, guardians, teachers, staff, and students, as applicable.
Obtaining necessary approvals: Secure the President’s approval for official PTA communications whenever such approval is required.

Through effective organization, accurate recordkeeping, and thoughtful communication, the Secretary helps ensure the PTA's smooth operation and supports strong engagement within the school community.

Early Years Program Representative

The Early Years Program Representative plays a key role in fostering communication, collaboration, and community engagement within the Early Years division. Key responsibilities include:

Representing families and sharing feedback: Attend all monthly PTA Board meetings to stay informed and serve as a representative for Early Years families. Participate in regular meetings with Lower School administrators and share relevant feedback and insights with the Executive Board.
Serving as a liaison: Act as a bridge between division coordinators, room parents, school leadership, and the PTA, ensuring effective communication and alignment among all stakeholders.
Training room parents: Plan and facilitate room-parent training sessions at the beginning of the school year, providing the information, resources, and guidelines needed for success in the role.
Managing communications: Coordinate and distribute approved communications via grade-level WhatsApp groups and other room-parent communication channels, ensuring compliance with established communication guidelines.
Coordinating community events: Organize the Holiday Bake Sale during the Lower School Concert and plan two Lower School social events each year, such as Movie Night or other family-centered gatherings.
Supporting school leadership: Assist the Lower School Principal and Associate Principals with initiatives, events, and other requests that support the school community.
Building class-level community: Foster connections among families within each classroom by organizing two parent-focused social gatherings annually—one per semester. Examples may include park meet-ups, playdates, or parent happy hours. While the Representative is responsible for coordinating these events, attendees are responsible for covering their own costs.

Through active engagement, clear communication, and community-building efforts, the Early Years Program Representative helps strengthen connections among families, educators, and the broader Graded community.

Lower School Representative

The Lower School Representative plays a key role in fostering communication, collaboration, and community engagement within the Lower School division. Key responsibilities include:

Representing families and sharing feedback: Attend all monthly PTA Board meetings to stay informed and serve as a representative for Lower School families. Participate in regular meetings with Lower School administrators and share relevant feedback and insights with the Executive Board.
Serving as a liaison: Act as a bridge between division coordinators, room parents, school leadership, and the PTA, ensuring effective communication and alignment among all stakeholders.
Training room parents: Plan and facilitate room-parent training sessions at the beginning of the school year, providing the information, resources, and guidelines needed for success in the role.
Managing communications: Coordinate and distribute approved communications via grade-level WhatsApp groups and other room-parent communication channels, ensuring compliance with established communication guidelines.
Coordinating community events: Organize the Holiday Bake Sale during the Lower School Concert and plan two Lower School social events each year, such as Movie Night or other family-centered gatherings.
Supporting school leadership: Assist the Lower School Principal and Associate Principals with initiatives, events, and other requests that support the school community.
Building grade-level community: Foster connections among families within each grade by organizing two parent-focused social gatherings annually—one per semester. Examples may include park meet-ups, playdates, or parent happy hours. While the Representative is responsible for coordinating these events, attendees are responsible for covering their own costs.

Through active engagement, clear communication, and community-building efforts, the Lower School Representative helps strengthen connections among families, educators, and the broader Graded community.

Middle School Representative

The Middle School Representative plays an important role in fostering communication, collaboration, and community engagement within the Middle School division. Key responsibilities include:

Representing families and sharing feedback: Attend all monthly PTA Board meetings to stay informed and serve as a representative for Middle School families.
Serving as a communication bridge: Act as a liaison between parents, school administration, and the Executive Board, helping to address matters related to academics, student life, school programs, and community concerns.
Gathering and sharing feedback: Collect feedback from parents and students on school initiatives and events, including Classroom Without Walls (CWW) trips, parent-teacher conferences, and other Middle School programs. Share relevant insights with school leadership and the Executive Board.
Collaborating with school leadership: Meet regularly with the Middle School Principal to exchange information, discuss community needs, and provide valuable feedback and recommendations to the Executive Board.
Coordinating community events: Organize one Middle School community-building event per semester, such as a Movie Night, Parent Social, or other gathering that promotes family engagement and school spirit.
Supporting fundraising initiatives: Coordinate the collection of funds for the COTW Middle School baskets and oversee related purchases in accordance with PTA guidelines and approved budgets.
Managing communications: Coordinate and distribute approved communications through grade-level WhatsApp groups and other parent communication channels, ensuring adherence to established communication guidelines.

Through active engagement, effective communication, and strong collaboration with families and school leadership, the Middle School Representative helps strengthen the Middle School community and enhance the overall student and family experience.

High School Representative

The High School Representative plays a key role in fostering communication, collaboration, and community engagement within the High School division. Key responsibilities include:

Representing families and sharing feedback: Attend all monthly PTA Board meetings and meetings with High School administrators to stay informed and serve as a representative for High School families.
Building grade-level community: Foster connections among families within your assigned grade level by organizing two parent-focused social gatherings annually—one per semester. Examples may include casual meet-ups, parent happy hours, or other social events. While the Representative is responsible for coordinating these gatherings, attendees are responsible for covering their own costs.
Managing communications: Coordinate and distribute approved communications through grade-level WhatsApp groups and other parent communication channels, ensuring adherence to established communication guidelines.
Serving as a communication bridge: Act as a liaison between parents and school administration, helping to address matters related to academics, student life, and community concerns.
Gathering and sharing feedback: Collect feedback from parents and students regarding High School programs and events, including Classroom Without Walls (CWW) experiences, and share relevant insights with school leadership.
Supporting fundraising initiatives: Coordinate the collection of funds for the COTW High School baskets and oversee related purchases in accordance with PTA guidelines and approved budgets.
Collaborating with counselors and IB administrators: Maintain regular communication with the International Baccalaureate (IB) administrator and the Office of College Counseling to support information sharing and address parent questions or concerns related to the IB Diploma Program.
Partnering with student support services: Collaborate with High School social-emotional counselors to identify opportunities for workshops, presentations, and initiatives that promote student well-being.
Supporting senior-class initiatives: Work closely with the 12th Grade Representative to organize the Senior Breakfast and coordinate the PTA Goodwill Scholarship Essay Competition for eligible students.
Preparing for graduation-related leadership: Remain actively informed about Graduation Dinner Committee activities in partnership with the 12th Grade Representative to ensure a smooth transition into the liaison role with the committee in the following school year, when applicable.

Through active engagement, strong communication, and collaboration with families and school leadership, the High School Representative helps strengthen the High School community and enhance the overall student and family experience.

Welcome Party Chair

Each year, Graded welcomes hundreds of new families to its community. The Welcome Party Chair plays a key role in helping new families feel informed, connected, and supported as they transition into life at Graded. Key responsibilities include:

Coordinating the Graded Buddy System: Organize and oversee the Graded Buddy System, ensuring that each new family is contacted before the start of the school year and has a designated point of contact for questions and support.
Planning the New Family BBQ: Organize the event on the Saturday before the start of the school year and recruit parent volunteers to support it.
Supporting orientation programs: Assemble and coordinate a team of volunteers to welcome new families during August and January orientation days.
Creating community-building opportunities: Plan and organize Graded Gatherings, informal events that encourage parents to connect with one another and integrate into the Graded community.
Managing event finances: Adhere to the approved budget and follow all financial procedures outlined in the PTA Financial Handbook.
Participating in PTA leadership: Attend PTA Board meetings as requested to provide updates and ensure alignment with PTA goals and initiatives

Through thoughtful planning and community engagement, the Welcome Party Chair helps create a warm and welcoming experience for new families joining Graded.

7 de Setembro Chair

7 de setembro Chair

The 7 de setembro Chair leads the planning and execution of Graded’s annual celebration of Brazilian Independence Day. This year, the event will take place on Friday, September 4, 2026. This event provides an opportunity for students and families to learn about and celebrate Brazil’s rich history, culture, and traditions. Key responsibilities include:

Planning and coordinating the event: Assemble and lead a team that works closely with the Portuguese Department to design and implement the celebration.
Promoting cultural appreciation: Help create an engaging, inclusive, and educational event that highlights Brazil’s history and cultural heritage.
Managing volunteers and logistics: Coordinate volunteers, event logistics, schedules, and materials necessary for a successful event.
Managing event finances: Adhere to the approved budget and follow all financial procedures outlined in the PTA Financial Handbook.
Participating in PTA leadership: Attend PTA Board meetings as requested to provide updates and ensure alignment with PTA goals and initiatives.

Through effective planning and collaboration, the 7 de Setembro Chair helps foster cultural understanding and appreciation throughout the Graded community.

Teacher Appreciation Week Chair

Teacher Appreciation Week (TAW) Chair

The Teacher Appreciation Week (TAW) Chair leads the planning and coordination of activities that recognize and celebrate the dedication, commitment, and impact of Graded’s faculty and staff. Key responsibilities include:

Leading the planning team: Assemble and coordinate a team of volunteers to organize Teacher Appreciation Week activities and events.
Designing a meaningful celebration: Plan and execute a multi-day program that expresses gratitude to faculty and staff through thoughtful activities, treats, gifts, messages of appreciation, and other recognition initiatives.
Coordinating logistics: Manage schedules, volunteers, supplies, and event details to ensure a smooth and enjoyable experience for all participants.
Managing event finances: Adhere to the approved budget and follow all financial procedures outlined in the PTA Financial Handbook.
Collaborating with school leadership: Work closely with school administrators and relevant departments to coordinate activities and ensure successful implementation.
Participating in PTA leadership: Attend PTA Board meetings as requested to provide updates and ensure alignment with PTA goals and initiatives.

Through thoughtful planning and meaningful recognition, the TAW Chair helps celebrate the invaluable contributions of Graded’s educators and staff while strengthening appreciation within the school community.

Thanksgiving Chairs

The Thanksgiving Chair and Co-Chair are responsible for planning and coordinating Graded’s annual Thanksgiving celebration, creating a meaningful and festive experience that brings the school community together in the spirit of gratitude. Key responsibilities include:

Leading the planning team: Assemble and coordinate a team of volunteers to support the planning and execution of the event.
Organizing the Thanksgiving celebration: Plan and oversee all aspects of the Thanksgiving event, ensuring it reflects the values of gratitude, community, and inclusion.
Coordinating the Thanksgiving Bazaar: Organize and manage the Thanksgiving Bazaar, including vendor recruitment, event logistics, and communications. The bazaar may feature local vendors, artisans, homemade goods, and seasonal offerings.
Managing event finances: Adhere to the approved budget and follow all financial procedures outlined in the PTA Financial Handbook.
Participating in PTA leadership: Attend PTA Board meetings as requested to provide updates and ensure alignment with PTA goals and initiatives.

Through thoughtful planning and collaboration, the Thanksgiving Chairs help create a memorable event that strengthens community connections and celebrates the spirit of thankfulness.

Festa dos Funcionários Chair

The Festa dos Funcionários Chair leads the planning and coordination of activities that recognize and celebrate the invaluable contributions of Graded’s staff members. This event honors the dedication of employees across the school community, including facilities, maintenance, transportation, security, food services, housekeeping, gardening, and administrative staff. Key responsibilities include:

Planning staff appreciation events: Organize and oversee all activities for the Festa dos Funcionários, including the Staff Appreciation Breakfast and the Staff Appreciation Party.
Creating meaningful recognition opportunities: Develop thoughtful ways for parents, students, and community members to express appreciation to staff through messages, gifts, recognition initiatives, and other gestures of gratitude.
Coordinating the End-of-Year Staff Bazaar: Plan and manage the End-of-Year Staff Bazaar, including donation drives, volunteer coordination, event logistics, and communication with participants. Ensure the event is organized, inclusive, and aligned with agreed-upon charitable goals.
Managing event finances: Adhere to the approved budget, follow all financial procedures outlined in the PTA Financial Handbook, and allocate resources responsibly.
Collaborating with school leadership: Work closely with school administrators and relevant departments to ensure the successful execution of all appreciation activities.
Participating in PTA leadership: Attend PTA Board meetings as requested to provide updates and ensure alignment with PTA goals and initiatives.

Through meaningful recognition and thoughtful event planning, the Festa dos Funcionários Chair helps foster a culture of gratitude and appreciation throughout the Graded community.

Celebration of the World Chairs

Celebration of the World (COTW) Chairs

The Celebration of the World (COTW) Chair and Co-Chair lead one of Graded’s signature community events, celebrating the diverse cultures, traditions, and backgrounds represented within the school community. Key responsibilities include:

Leading the organizing committee: Assemble and coordinate a team of volunteers and committee leaders to support the planning and execution of the event.
Managing event finances: Adhere to the approved budget, follow all financial procedures outlined in the PTA Financial Handbook, and allocate resources responsibly to deliver an engaging, memorable experience.
Overseeing event components: Coordinate and supervise the various committees and activities that contribute to the success of the event, which may include:
- Country and cultural booths showcase traditions, food, and educational displays.
- Raffle baskets featuring culturally themed items or experiences.
- Silent auction activities supporting fundraising efforts.
- Ticket sales and event registration.
- Volunteer coordination and participant communications.
- Entertainment, including music, dance, performances, and cultural demonstrations.
- The Countries Parade, celebrating students' and families' cultural heritage.
- Sports activities and interactive experiences that promote community engagement.
Managing communications: Ensure effective communication with participants, volunteers, families, sponsors, and attendees through approved PTA communication channels.
Collaborating with school leadership: Work closely with school administrators and relevant departments to ensure a safe, inclusive, and successful event.
Participating in PTA leadership: Attend PTA Board meetings as requested to provide updates and ensure alignment with PTA goals and initiatives.

Through thoughtful planning and collaboration, the COTW Chairs help create a vibrant celebration that fosters cultural appreciation, inclusion, and a strong sense of community across Graded.

Festa Junina Chairs

The Festa Junina Chairs lead the planning and coordination of one of Graded’s most beloved cultural celebrations. Working closely with the school community, they help create an engaging event that celebrates Brazilian traditions, culture, and heritage. Key responsibilities include:

Planning and coordinating the event: Assemble and lead a team that collaborates with the Portuguese Department to design and implement the Festa Junina celebration.
Promoting cultural appreciation: Create an inclusive and engaging event that highlights Brazilian traditions through activities, music, food, decorations, and cultural experiences.
Managing volunteers and logistics: Recruit, coordinate, and supervise volunteers and committees responsible for various aspects of the event.
Managing event finances: Adhere to the approved budget and follow all financial procedures outlined in the PTA Financial Handbook.
Collaborating with school leadership: Work closely with school administrators and relevant departments to ensure a successful and safe event.
Participating in PTA leadership: Attend PTA Board meetings as requested to provide updates and ensure alignment with PTA goals and initiatives.

Through thoughtful planning and collaboration, the Festa Junina Chairs help create a memorable celebration that strengthens community connections and honors Brazilian culture.

Book Club Chair

The Book Club Chair fosters a community of readers by organizing regular gatherings that encourage meaningful discussion, connection, and a shared appreciation for literature. Key responsibilities include:

Coordinating monthly meetings: Organize and facilitate Book Club meetings, traditionally held on campus on the third Thursday of each month at 1:30 pm.
Selecting and promoting reading materials: Work with participants to select books and encourage engagement and participation throughout the year.
Facilitating discussions: Create a welcoming environment where members can share perspectives, insights, and reflections on selected readings.
Building community through literature: Encourage participation from across the Graded community and create opportunities for connection through shared reading experiences.
Participating in PTA leadership: Attend PTA Board meetings as requested to share updates and remain informed about school-wide initiatives.

Through thoughtful programming and engaging discussions, the Book Club Chair helps strengthen community connections while promoting lifelong learning and a love of reading.

Fine Arts Chair

The Fine Arts Chair serves as a liaison among Graded’s arts programs, families, and the PTA, promoting engagement, attendance, and appreciation for the school’s outstanding visual and performing arts programs. Key responsibilities include:

Supporting arts programs: Work closely with orchestra, band, choir, theater, film, and visual arts teachers to identify opportunities for parent involvement and volunteer support.
Promoting performances and exhibitions: Collaborate with the PTA Communications Team to publicize concerts, performances, exhibitions, festivals, and other arts-related events.
Encouraging community participation: Help build enthusiasm and increase attendance at Fine Arts events by communicating their value and impact to families.
Organizing cultural excursions: Coordinate at least four parent-focused cultural outings each year, such as museum visits, concerts, theater performances, or other cultural experiences in São Paulo.
Supporting event hospitality: Assist with coordinating refreshments, hospitality, and the audience experience during arts events, as appropriate.
Coordinating recognition efforts: Work with school personnel to organize flower presentations or other recognition activities that celebrate student performers and artists.
Supporting special programs: Assist with events such as the Graded Reels Film Festival, IB Visual Arts exhibitions, IB Arts performances, and similar initiatives.
Providing PTA updates: Share information during PTA meetings about Fine Arts activities and opportunities for family engagement.
Participating in PTA leadership: Attend PTA Board meetings as requested to provide updates and ensure alignment with PTA goals and initiatives.

Through advocacy, promotion, and community engagement, the Fine Arts Chair helps strengthen support for Graded’s exceptional arts programs.

PTA Logistics Chairs

The PTA Logistics Chairs play a critical role in ensuring that PTA events and activities run smoothly throughout the year. By coordinating event logistics, managing supplies, and collaborating with school personnel, they provide the operational support that helps make PTA programs successful. Key responsibilities include:

Coordinating event logistics: Work closely with event chairs to plan and execute logistical needs for PTA events and activities.
Managing PTA inventory and storage: Maintain and organize the PTA storage room, track inventory, and facilitate access to supplies and decorations.
Collaborating with school operations teams: Coordinate with the Graded Maintenance Team to arrange furniture, equipment, and event setups.
Supporting audiovisual needs: Liaise with the Graded Audiovisual Team to ensure technical requirements are identified and fulfilled.
Providing hands-on event support: Assist with setup, event operations, and breakdown as needed.
Planning proactively: Attend PTA monthly meetings to stay informed about upcoming events and prepare logistical requirements in advance.
Participating in PTA leadership: Attend PTA Board meetings as requested to provide updates and ensure alignment with PTA goals and initiatives.

Successful Logistics Chairs are organized, collaborative, detail-oriented, and able to manage multiple priorities while supporting a wide range of school events.

EMBRACE Chair

The EMBRACE Chair serves as the primary liaison between the Graded Scholar Program and the parent community. EMBRACE supports Graded Scholars and their families by fostering inclusion, building community connections, and helping address practical needs that contribute to student success. Because this role involves sensitive information, discretion, professionalism, and respect for privacy are essential. Key responsibilities include:

Collaborating with the Graded Scholar Program Coordinator: Work closely with the Program Coordinator to identify and support the needs of current Graded Scholars and alumni.
Building community awareness and engagement: Promote understanding of the Graded Scholar Program and encourage meaningful involvement from the parent community.
Developing support networks: Identify and connect community members who can provide resources, expertise, mentorship, internships, networking opportunities, or other forms of support.
Coordinating emergency assistance efforts: Facilitate ad hoc fundraising and community support initiatives when emergency needs arise.
Supporting annual budgeting: Collaborate with the Program Coordinator and relevant PTA teams to plan for scholarship-related expenses, including technology, PTA event participation, graduation celebrations, and other student needs.
Managing a Scholar Resource Closet: Coordinate and maintain a collection of clothing and essential items that support students’ participation in school activities, including sports uniforms, professional attire for clubs and events such as Model United Nations (MUN), and appropriate outerwear and travel gear for school-sponsored trips.
Supporting Graded Scholar alumni: Assist alumni as they transition to college by coordinating community support, networking opportunities, internship connections, and other resources.
Reporting program impact: In partnership with the Program Coordinator, provide an annual update to the PTA and parent community, highlighting program accomplishments and alumni successes while respecting student privacy.
Maintaining confidentiality: Handle all information related to Graded Scholars and their families with discretion and professionalism.
Participating in PTA leadership: Attend PTA Board meetings as requested to remain informed and help align EMBRACE initiatives with broader PTA goals and priorities.

Through advocacy, collaboration, and community-building, the EMBRACE Chair helps ensure that Graded Scholars and their families feel supported, connected, embraced, and empowered to thrive within the Graded community.