Here is the list of room parents for 2011-2012. Thank you to all of you!

Room Parent Responsibilities

Room parents meet monthly or once a trimester (depending on what is going on) with their classroom liaison. Classroom liaisons assist in communicating from room parents to the foundation and school. The liaisons are:

• Grades K-4 - Dora Wang
• Grades 5-8 - Dora Wang

The following is a brief description of the room parent responsibilities. If you are interested in helping your room parents with any of these, you can contact the classroom liaison to get their information, or you can look them up in the directory.

Note: Responsibilities vary from teacher to teacher and grade to grade. A division of labor and equality makes for an easier and much more rewarding experience. Room parents are encouraged to form committees to help with each project!

• Class funds - At the beginning of the school year the room parents usually ask the parents to contribute to a class fund. The purpose is to help offset costs. They write a letter to the class parents requesting a donation and explain what the funds will be used for. The amount is up the individual room parent, but in the past the average is $40.00. These monies are used for class parties (treats and festive decorations), an “End-of-School” gift for the teacher, and incidentals that come up. It is strictly voluntary and no parent should feel obligated to donate. It is helpful to have one room parent keep track of the funds and accounting of expenditures.
• Parties - Grades K-5 usually have four (4) class parties each year, determined by the teacher. Grades 6-8 usually combine to have "middle school" parties. A good rule to follow is, offer the kids a tasty treat and a party that is simple and low key. Festive napkins, plates and table cloths are a fun way to celebrate. The party usually includes a drink (such as a small bottle of water or juice box) and a snack (muffin, small cupcake, fruit, cookie or ice cream). Depending on the event, a small token or craft for the kids to assemble is always fun. They also enjoy decorating cupcakes or cookies.
• Communication to parents - Room parents use a parent email list to let parents know when they need help, when class parties are happening, and generally to keep in touch with parents.
• End-of-year teacher gift - Room parents coordinate these for the class.
• Helping teachers - Depending on the teacher, “help” can occur in a number of different ways. Some teachers need assistance in coordinating volunteers for different events. Others rely on classroom helpers, art projects, San Diego County Fair art submissions, holiday projects and special parent gifts (Mother’s Day or Father’s Day).
• Class photographer - This has become a fantastic resource for various class projects and the school. The Foundation may ask for photos of a certain party, event or classroom for community building events, posters and calendars.
• Annual Foundation auction - The foundation has asked room parents to recruit (2) two parents from each grade to assist with acquisitions for auction items. An example would be events or experiences such as sporting event tickets, ski lift tickets (ski package), trips and time shares, donations from local businesses, jewelry, services etc.
• Assisting the Foundation - Room parents help sell tickets and promote Foundation events to their grade. They work with the teacher to help create the classroom creation for the auction. They also coordinate volunteers to decorate the classroom door for Teacher Appreciation week.

Following are some important documents that all room parents should read.

• October 7, 2011 Room Parents Meeting Powerpoint
• Sample Letter for Room Parents
• Rhoades Emergency Contact Tree