Community

Parent Association

Get Involved. Stay Connected. Make an Impact.

The Parent Association (PA) is the heart of parent life at Friends Community School. Every parent is a member, and together we build connection, celebrate our community, and support the joyful learning that defines FCS. Whether you have an hour or a day, there’s a place for you to get involved, meet other families, and make a difference.
The FCS-PA provides meaningful support to the FCS Board, administration and parent community by cultivating community-building and fostering effective communications.  The FCS-PA sponsors and executes activities and fundraisers to enrich the community, enable school and family social interaction, and further the school’s ability to meet its goals in educating the children of FCS.

From the PA Co-Clerks

Dear FCS Families,

At Friends Community School, our community is one of our greatest strengths. The Parent Association (PA) helps carry that spirit forward by fostering connections, supporting our teachers and staff, and building the traditions that make FCS such a joyful place for our children to grow and learn.
As your Parent Association (PA) Co-Clerks, we’re excited to partner with you in this work. Whether you’re returning to campus or joining us for the first time, we are so glad you’re part of this vibrant, caring community.
At FCS, every parent and caregiver is a member of the PA, there’s no sign-up required. Together, we help nurture the spirit of community that is at the heart of the FCS experience. Whether you have an hour to volunteer, creative ideas to share, or simply a desire to connect with other families, there is a place for you in the PA.
Throughout the year, the PA hosts events like the Fall Fair, Valentines Day Dance, and Teacher Appreciation Week, various fundraisers, community get-togethers, and provides a forum for parents to come together, share resources, and support our school. Quarterly PA meetings are open to all and are a wonderful way to stay informed and get involved—we’d love to see you there!
We’re here to help you feel at home at FCS and to answer any questions about how to engage with the school community. You can always reach us at fcspa1@friendscommunityschool.org.
Here’s to a wonderful year of connection, collaboration, and community. We can’t wait to see what we’ll accomplish together.

Warmly,
Katie Geffken & Orlando Velez
Co-Clerks, FCS Parent Association

25-26 PA Leadership

    • Katie Geffken, PA Co-Clerk

    • Orlando Velez, PA Co-Clerk

    • Jeremiah Schatt, PA Treasurer

Celebrating Community, Together Events & Traditions 

The Parent Association helps bring the FCS community together through joyful events and meaningful traditions. From planning the lively Fall Fair to hosting the festive Valentine’s Day Dance and showing gratitude during Teacher Appreciation Week, these gatherings strengthen the connections that make FCS so special. Events & Traditions

Fall Fair

The Fall Fair is our largest and most beloved FCS tradition—and we couldn’t do it without our parent volunteers! This joyful fundraiser brings the whole community together for an afternoon and evening of games, food, music, an outdoor movie on the big screen, and family fun. Whether you help plan activities, set up booths, or pitch in on the day of, every contribution makes this special day possible.
Sign Up To Volunteer

Valentines Day Dance

A fun and festive evening where FCS families come together to dance, laugh, and celebrate the spirit of our community. With lively music, a welcoming atmosphere, and plenty of treats, the Valentine’s Day Dance is a highlight of the year. Parents help transform the space with creative decorations, organize music and activities, and provide refreshments—making it a joyful night for all ages to remember.

Appreciation Week

A week-long celebration honoring the incredible teachers and staff who make FCS such a special place. Parents come together to organize delicious meals, thoughtful treats, and heartfelt notes of gratitude, creating moments of joy and appreciation throughout the week. It’s a chance for families to say “thank you” in meaningful ways and recognize the dedication, creativity, and care our educators bring to the community every day.

Fostering Connections Through Shared Experiences
Affinity Groups 

The Parent Association supports a variety of affinity groups that create spaces for parents and caregivers to connect, share, and build relationships around shared identities, interests, and experiences. These groups strengthen the fabric of our community, offering support, celebration, and opportunities to learn from one another in ways that reflect the inclusive spirit of FCS.

We currently have three active groups: Parents of Black Students, Parents of Students with LGBTQIA+ Family Members, and Parents of Students with Neurodivergence, but we’re always looking to grow!

For additional information about joining an Affinity group or to suggest additional groups, please log into the Affinity Group Resource Tab. 

Affinity Group Resource Hub

Here’s where you can explore FCS affinity groups—learn what they’re about, sign up to join, or share an idea for a new group.

Go To Affinity Group Resource Tab

Fostering Building Community Through Shared Action
Volunteering for the PA

Volunteers play a vital role in the life of Friends Community School. Whether supporting a classroom as a Room Parent, helping at events like the Fall Fair or Teacher Appreciation Week, or lending a hand behind the scenes, your time and talents make FCS stronger.

The Parent Association helps coordinate Room Parents for each classroom, and our events, but all other volunteer opportunities are managed through the Advancement Office. 

Questions?

Reach out to Ileana Trozzo DeLeonibus for more information about current opportunities and requirements.
Contact Ileana

Volunteer Requirements

To ensure a safe and welcoming environment, all volunteers—whether supporting the PA or the school—are required to complete a brief training and background check before getting started.
5901 Westchester Park Drive College Park, MD, 20740
Phone: (301) 441-2100
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