A Farewell Message from our Co-Presidents:

It doesn't seem possible that we would be saying farewell to our run as PTSA Co-Presidents. However, as fast as it has passed, to everything there is a season. And, so it goes, as the seasons pass at AHS. Every season, every activity, every student and parent, teacher or administrator offers hope for growth, wisdom, success, even defeat. If you are willing to look for hope and growth, the season will produce what you seek. We have been surrounded by adults who care so much for their children and the environment at AHS. Our PTSA board members were incomparable. Everything we accomplished these last two years is credit to them. We cannot begin to thank the teams of countless parents for their countless hours of dedication and energy. We began our tenure with a wonderful principal, only to turn our second year into an amazing walk with our new principal, Mary Anne Charron. We are fortunate beyond measure to have known her and worked with her. We leave AHS PTSA in the hands of great leadership and educators who have passionate hearts for our children.

We marked this second year of our term with a goal of "being visible". We wanted to highlight a few of the things we've checked off our list: 100% Faculty PTSA memberships, we exceeded our budgeted membership goal (thanks to all of you!), continued the #1 format for communication through ENN, opened the new College and Career Center, gave out over $12K in Mini Grants to faculty and staff, gave out $4K in scholarships to graduating seniors, sponsored "Ignorance is No Defense" seminar, created photographic displays for "Many Are One", purchased casual seating in front lobby entrance, purchased LCD TV for announcements for front lobby area, purchased marquis for Fine Arts building, provided glass display case for Fine Arts building, partnered with the school for campus signage and flags, sponsored on-going "Unity Garden" outdoor classroom and art sculpture, and enhanced the front entrance and Teachers' parking lot with shrubbery and annuals, not to mention our work with the Directory, Textbook Distribution, Corporate Sponsors, our website, Special Populations, Reflections, Senior Events, Parent to Parent, Honors Recognition, and Staff Appreciation. The list is like our report card and like any business that gives an Annual Report. Now you know why we need your participation and why we are thanking you for your support over these last two years. Please continue to invest in AHS in any way possible - your return is invaluable.

Finally, we want to send our best wishes to all the students and their families who call themselves Raiders. We have come so far since the doors of our high school first opened. There is still much work to do. The years of high school are formidable, unforgettable, the best of times, the worst of times - a season where we do all we can to plant seeds for a great harvest.

Thank you for all the support and spirit that you so graciously bestowed upon us. Go Raiders!

Lisa Stalica and Maureen Leach
AHS PTSA 2007- 2009.