The MLS PTO Annual Fund is underway! The Annual Fund is a sustainable source of support for MLS to address the most pressing strategic initiatives and funding gaps. Through Annual Fund donations, the PTO strives to take up where ACPS funds leave off, creating a top-tier educational experience for our children.

Our goal is 100% participation in the Annual Fund by MLS families. Your donation of any size directly benefits the school, and our participation as a whole demonstrates our commitment and unified support of our children's education. 

Your letter should have arrived in your home mailbox earlier this week, with complete instructions on how to donate via US Mail or backpack mail, or  click here to donate now online! If you have questions about the Annual Fund, contact Bryce Harris, brycebharris@gmail.com, or Samantha Hartog, samhartog@gmail.com.

Dr. Irani and his staff have identified three funding priorities for this year: 1.) Professional Development Fund for teachers; 2.) Playground Improvements for the upper-grades field behind the school; 3.) World Languages Program. Your gift can help us work toward all three of these initiatives!

2.) Playground. Last year, playground improvements started as a dream, and after collaborating with teachers, administrators, parents, and manufacturers, we are now much closer to reality! Our goal is to raise $25,000 this year; together with substantial ACPS funds and the $25,000 raised last year, the intention is to replace the metal slides and the old metal equipment on the back playground in Summer 2016. The new design (shown below) will be an exciting place, developing physical fitness by encouraging students to roll, spin, twist, climb, and run. We want a play area that encourages risk taking, collaboration, socialization, and creative play opportunities. Designed as a rope obstacle course featuring 18-foot-high "space nets," kids will love the challenge of navigating the whole course without touching the ground, and spinning and twisting on the equipment inside!

3.) World Language Program. The World Language Program will foster a global perspective in our students and promote higher levels of critical thinking. Research shows that kids who learn another language are better problem-solvers and analytical thinkers. Thanks to everyone who attended one of Dr. Irani's forums to discuss the pilot program; Dr. Irani will be announcing MLS's chosen language later this month! Annual Fund donations may be put toward purchases such as a library of texts, classroom materials, second-language apps, and/or books on tape to support instruction in MLS's chosen language.

Thank you for your continued support of Meriwether Lewis, via Annual Fund contributions, participation in PTO events, and volunteer hours in the classrooms and beyond. We appreciate every donation of time, talent, and resources and look forward to reporting on Annual Fund success in the weeks ahead!