For the 2025-2026 school year, we are re-launching PTO committees to encourage parents to dig in, bring your interests, passions, and skills, and get to know fellow members of the PS 282 community. Whether you want to help shape school policies, improve facilities, plan fun events, or bake a cake, your ideas and efforts can make a genuine difference.
We encourage one member of each family join at least one committee. There is no commitment required to join a committee–you can join to be part of the conversation, and then volunteer your time as you’re able to throughout the school year. Let’s work together to make PS 282 the best it can be!
Please email pto@282parkslope.org to volunteer.
Join a Committee
BUDGET COMMITTEE
Chairs: Jullie Hollar and Steve O’Neal
Treasurers
The PTO Budget Committee plays a crucial role in supporting the treasurer by assisting in the development and management of the PTO’s budget. This committee collaborates closely with the Treasurer(s) and PTO Executive board to review financial needs, analyze previous expenditures, and forecast future funding requirements. By gathering input from various PTO initiatives and stakeholders, the committee ensures a comprehensive and transparent budgeting process.
COMMUNICATIONS COMMITTEE
Chair: Megan Gilbride
We strive to keep our families informed of all the wonderful things happening in our school and community. The PTO Communications Committee is dedicated to facilitating clear, timely, and inclusive communication between the school parents, teachers, and staff. We produce a weekly newsletter, co-manage the PS 282 website, generate informative content for PS 282’s social media pages, and support each PTO committee in getting their event promoted.
FUNDRAISING COMMITTEE
Chair: Ana Kovacs
The PTO Fundraising Committee is dedicated to raising funds vital to supporting educational initiatives, enrichment programs, and essential resources that enhance the learning environment for all students at PS 282. We organize and coordinate fundraising and community building events, launch special appeal campaigns, solicit donations from local businesses, and develop and manage merchandise to generate revenue and promote school spirit.
FUNDRAISING SUBCOMMITTEES
Chair: Camille Alexander
VP of Fundraising
These subcommittees will work closely with the Fundraising Committee to plan, organize, and execute various PS 282 events that enrich the school community experience and raise funds for the PTO:
- Movie Nights
- Fall Fest
- Spring Auction & Parent’s Night Out
- Summer Bash
- Bake Sales
COMMUNITY OUTREACH & HELPING HANDS COMMITTEE
Chairs: Rachel Owsley & Keith Maneri
The Community Outreach & Helping Hands Committee is a group of parents and caregivers who work together to support our school community and neighborhood. This committee assists with community-building efforts, including but not limited to: teacher appreciation, family gatherings, helping community members in need, clothing or supply drives, and other acts of kindness. Helping Hands is all about lending support where it’s needed most, fostering a spirit of compassion, and strengthening our school community.
community@282parkslope.org
GRANTS COMMITTEE
Chair: Christina Katopodis
Co-President
The PTO Grants Committee supports the development of larger school initiatives. This committee collaborates closely with the PTO Executive Board to review school needs and seek funding sources and grant opportunities as well as engage in the local Participatory Budgeting process. By gathering input from various stakeholders, the committee ensures alignment with school priorities and values.
MERCH COMMITTEE
Chair: Brigit Holmes
The Merch Committee is responsible for overseeing the creation, procurement, and distribution of PS 282 branded merchandise for fundraising and community-building. This committee plays a pivotal role in enhancing school spirit, fostering a sense of belonging, and generating revenue to support various programs and initiatives within the school community.
SENIOR COMMITTEE
Chair: Tania Chau
VP of Upper School
The Senior Committee, dedicated to 5th grade activities, is committed to creating memorable and meaningful experiences for students in their final year at PS 282. The committee focuses on planning a coordinating a variety of special events like graduation and year-end parties to field trips and commemorative projects.
GARDEN COMMITTEE
Chair: Amanda Goss
We want the PS 282 garden to serve as a living classroom, a source of inspiration, and a community gathering space for students, families, and staff at PS 282. The PTO Garden Committee will help develop and maintain the garden, host gardening events for the community, and work with teachers and our partners at Brooklyn ReWilders to introduce students to the joy of gardening with hands-on activities. No gardening experience is necessary!
ACCESSIBILITY COMMITTEE
Chairs: Brigit Holmes & Siena Shundi
The PTO Accessibility Committee is dedicated to supporting and advocating for children with special needs within our school community. This committee works to ensure that every child receives the necessary resources and accommodations to thrive academically, socially, and emotionally. Collaborating with parents, teachers, and school administrators, the committee aims to create an inclusive environment that celebrates diversity and promotes understanding. Key initiatives include organizing workshops, providing information on available resources, and advocating for appropriate support and services.