PTA: Where Families and Schools Connect

When Ozark parent Ashley Vesley’s oldest daughter began kindergarten, Vesley quickly realized how much of her child’s day would now be spent at school instead of home. Wanting to stay connected and involved, she began looking for ways to support not only her daughter’s teacher, but West Elementary as a whole.

“I wanted to know who she was around. I wanted the staff and the teachers to know me and know that if they needed anything, I would help them,” Vesley said. “I also wanted my kids to know that I’m here. If you ever need anything, I got your back. I think it just helps kids have a sense of home or a sense of comfort if they see other parents in the building.”

Vesley joined the West Elementary Parent-Teacher Association, most commonly known as PTA, and has been involved ever since. Her daughter is now at Ozark Junior High, but with two younger children, Vesley currently serves as West PTA vice president and Ozark Middle School PTA president. 

“I think PTA is important to the school system because it helps bridge that gap between the parent and the school,” Vesley said. “When parents get involved, it helps build the morale with teachers and staff. And, when morale is high, I think everyone benefits. I think it just helps make a stronger community.”

East Elementary Principal Karen Capen said the purpose of PTA is to bring parents and teachers together to provide all those "extras" that make school so special, such as MAP testing celebrations, mother-son bingo events and father-daughter dances. 

“An active PTA shows students that their two worlds — home and school — are working together,” Capen said. “It provides better resources and learning opportunities that we couldn’t offer alone. Ultimately, it creates a supportive environment where every student can truly thrive.”

Tiger Paw Early Childhood Center Principal Dr. Elizabeth Dawson said the PTA also serves as a key advocacy group. At Tiger Paw, members helped secure an outdoor accessible playground as well as dramatic play pieces for the school’s growing Tiny Tiger Town.

“We are so appreciative for everything that our PTA does for our staff and our students, and we just really love that we are able to partner with them,” Dawson said. 

The impact of Ozark’s PTA organizations is felt across the district, leaving lasting impressions on students, families and staff. However, additional volunteer support is essential to continue building strong, connected school communities.

“We truly need you to jump in and help. Whether it’s a big fundraiser or a small act of service, you are the reason our school feels like a family,” Capen said. “If you haven’t found a way to get involved yet, now is the perfect time. We would love to have you.”

Get Involved in Ozark PTA!

• Tiger Paw Early Childhood Center: TigerPawPTA@gmail.com
• North Elementary: OzarkNorthPTA@gmail.com
• South Elementary: OzarkSouthPTA@gmail.com
• East Elementary: OzEastPTA@gmail.com
• West Elementary: OzarkWestPTA@gmail.com
• Ozark Middle School: OMSPTATigers@gmail.com
• Find all of our PTA groups on Facebook!