As we are all getting ready for the busy holiday season I’ll keep my note to just two important points.

1.       Many of you are probably following the budget crisis facing FCPS.  For those of you who are not familiar with the problems, please check out the details at www.fcps.edu.  There is a $176 million shortfall for the next budget year.  This will greatly impact all of our schools.  On the website click on the “Potential Programs and Service Reductions” link to see the list of items that will be discussed at the Budget Community Dialogue meetings.  I strongly urge our community to attend these meetings and stay in touch with the budget process.

2.       In these times of broad economic difficulty it is even more important that the PTA fundraising efforts be supported so we can achieve our goal of supporting the best and highest quality of education for our children at Lees Corner.  Unfortunately at the time when it is most needed our donation drive has all but come to a complete stop.  As I’ve said, we have had an incredibly generous show of support from a small percentage of our families.  We are very thankful for that.  Again, if you happen to be one of the 335 families that have not made their donation yet – it’s not too late, it’s never too late.  We are still suggesting $75 if you have one child at Lees Corner and $100 if you have two or more.  Please remember that this is only a suggested amount.   We understand that some families are able to do more and some less; we just ask that you do what you can.  You should have received a second request letter and envelope in your oldest child’s Wednesday folder.  We truly appreciate your returning them with whatever you are able to donate.

Finally, I must say that I am encouraged by all the new faces that are getting involved in the PTA.   It is refreshing for those of us that have been around for a while to see new faces with new ideas.

Thank you!

Jodi Fraize
PTA President