I am very excited and a little nervous for this upcoming year. I am fortunate to be working with some wonderful people in the PTA and at Field. Just as you, we are dedicated to helping the children, teachers, and school succeed. I know we will occasionally stumble, but am confident that in the end, we will be happy with the outcome.

Our goal is to make sure we spend our money wisely on the items needed to improve our children's education. We will constantly ask the question, "how does this expense improve the children's education and the Eugene Field school facilities?" However, to be able to spend the money, we have to earn it first. We are well underway with one of our main fundraisers, the Mr. Z's cookie and product sales. This will hopefully go a long way toward meeting some of the expenses that we have for the school; not to mention, covering Dr. Colbaugh in silly string! Remember, get those order forms turned in.

It looks like the year is starting out on a good note. I have had the opportunity to greet the kids as they start out their day. If you see a strange guy opening the door for the children, that is me. Please feel free to join me or volunteer to be a greeter! There are plenty of smiles to go around from these children and I love hearing about what they are doing. In fact, I got to see plenty of crickets earlier this week. Thanks for letting me share a little bit of your child's day.

On a personal note, I would like to encourage you to be involved in your child's life at school. Do not make the mistake I did with my oldest daughter. She was always asking me to come eat lunch with her. As the years went on, 1st grade turned into 5th grade. I finally made it to school to eat with her. As she was noticeably bothered by my being there, I asked her why she seemed embarrassed. I did not expect the answer I got. She told me that "it would not have been so bad if I had been coming in the past, but it made her uncomfortable now." These are words I will always remember and have tried to learn from. Although it is never too late to spend time with your children, the lesson I learned is that the best time is now.

I also want to point out that one way of being involved with your child is by getting involved with the PTA. Become a member. Get on a committee. Spend 30 minutes helping the teacher. Be a Watchdog Dad. Read to the class. There are plenty of opportunities and we will help you get plugged in. Contact me or any of the other executive officers with any questions you may have. We are always glad to help! At Field, there are nothing but possIBilities!

Sincerely,

Bob Grosser
PTA President