Ossining Volunteers Run District-Wide PTA Network
A new board aims to streamline communication and expand language access for parents across the Westchester County school district.
By Sofia Ramirez ·
Ossining’s public schools rely on a volunteer infrastructure that manages district-wide advocacy and student programs without paid staff.
The Ossining Council of PTAs serves as the umbrella organization for the district’s local PTA and PTSA units. It covers every school from early childhood through Ossining High School. The group also includes SEPTA, the special education PTA.
Leilani Dooley, President of the Ossining Council of PTAs, describes the operation as a community effort. She states, "PTA runs on neighbors." Dooley notes that no one is paid for their time. Volunteers contribute specific skills or short blocks of time to support students beyond basic needs.
The Council handles functions that require a single district-wide voice rather than individual school efforts. It runs the National PTA Reflections program, which asks students to create art, music, writing, photography, or film based on an annual theme. The group also trains leaders for individual school units and facilitates the sharing of best practices.
A newly seated board is working to make volunteering more accessible this fall. The board is implementing clearer role definitions and improving communication between units. It is also providing materials in both English and Spanish to ensure all families can participate directly.
The Council acts as a liaison between parents and the district. It carries the parent voice to the Westchester-East Putnam region and New York State PTA. This fall, the group began working with the Ossining Teachers Association to gather parent feedback on district curriculum. The goal is to ensure families and teachers are aligned in their educational goals.
Fundraising efforts support the operational infrastructure of the district’s PTA units. Proceeds from the Council’s current fundraiser pay for centralized services. These services include Google Workspace, SMS messaging, and a public web presence. By handling these costs centrally, the Council allows individual school units to direct their own funds to specific local needs.
Supporters can contribute through the Council’s holiday tree campaign running through November 26. Participants can order a Balsam or Fraser fir, a wreath, or a tree stand for delivery between November 21 and December 18. The code BUNDLEUP reduces the price of a seven or eight-foot Balsam fir, a decorated wreath, and a stand from $337 to $300.
The Council invites families to join their specific school’s PTA or attend a meeting. It encourages volunteers to take on one task or role. The organization views expanded participation as a way to improve the support available to every child in the district.
