PTSA
Overview of the MAFI PTSA
The Maya Angelou French Immersion PTSA (Parent Teacher Student Association) is a proud member of the Free State (Maryland) PTA, which in turn is part of National PTA — the largest child advocacy association in the United States. As part of this national network, our PTSA connects families, educators, and the community to ensure that every child’s potential becomes a reality.
Locally, we are a dedicated team of parents, teachers, and students working together to support academic excellence, cultural enrichment, and school community engagement.
JOIN US or Donate to Our Cause
Vision and Mission
Mission:
Our local unit aligns with the National PTA Mission: “To make every child’s potential a reality by engaging and empowering families and communities to advocate for all children.”
Vision:
Our vision is to ensure that all students thrive in a rigorous French immersion program that celebrates language, culture, and diversity, while fostering a strong school community and supporting the school’s mission and vision.
Current and Upcoming Projects
- Advocacy & Legislative Engagement – Advancing security improvements and modernization through outreach to county and state officials.
- Fundraising Partnerships – Collaborating with local businesses (e.g., Red Robin, Chipotle, Chuck E. Cheese, Chick-fil-A) to raise funds that directly benefit MAFI programs.
- National PTA Reflections Program – Exploring participation in this nationwide arts program to encourage creativity and student expression.
- National PTA Grants – Applying for new grant opportunities to support programs and resources for MAFI families.
- School of Excellence Reapplication – Working toward renewing our recognition as a National PTA School of Excellence.
- MAFI Memorial Garden Project – Developing a lasting green space on campus, supported by a sponsorship form with local lawn and garden retailer(s). A space honoring loved ones we’ve lost in the MAFI community (students & staff).
- And much more to come!
Membership Drive & Committees
This year, our goal is to grow membership beyond last year’s milestone of 205 members. There are many ways to get involved! Families are invited to join one of our active committees, including:
- Legislative/Advocacy Committee – Advocates for policies, resources, and equity for all students, while elevating MAFI’s voice in county and state conversations.
- Programs & Events Committee – Plans schoolwide events and family engagement activities, from cultural celebrations to community-building programs.
- Women’s Engagement Committee – Focuses on initiatives that support and uplift women and girls in our school community.
- Communications Committee – Keeps families connected through newsletters, social media, bulletin boards, and the school website.
- Grants & Opportunities Committee – Secures outside funding and resources to support PTSA programs and operations.
- Men Make a Difference (MMAD) Committee – Builds initiatives that support boys and young men, while encouraging fathers, uncles, grandfathers, and male mentors to take an active role in school life.
- Hospitality Committee – Welcomes new families, supports staff and student appreciation efforts, and coordinates special celebrations such as the Staff Welcome Back Breakfast, Teacher Appreciation Luncheon, Principal’s Appreciation, Parent Nights, and other community meetups.
- Membership Committee – Leads membership drives, welcomes new families, and builds a stronger parent community.
- Faculty Liaison Committee – Serves as a bridge between school faculty and the PTSA, ensuring teacher voices are represented in PTSA programs and initiatives.
- General Volunteer Pool – Provides flexible support for one-time events and projects for families who want to contribute but cannot commit to a standing committee.
Awards and Recognitions
- National PTA School of Excellence (earned in prior years, 2023–2025).
- National PTA Healthy Minds Program Award – Received grant funding to promote mental wellness and resilience among families (2024–2025).
- National PTA STEM + Families Program Award – Received grant funding to create hands-on STEM opportunities for scholars (2023–2025).
- Educator Grants: In 2024, the PTSA proudly awarded three educators with classroom grants to support innovative projects and enhance student learning.
- Growing Membership Impact: Surpassed our 200-member goal in 2023–24.
- Community Partnerships Recognition: Honored for building sustainable collaborations with local organizations to support scholars.
- Local Leadership Recognition: Several of our PTSA officers actively serve in leadership roles at the county and state PTA level, helping to shape policies, advocate for resources, and bring new opportunities back to MAFI.
Join Us Now!
Becoming a PTSA member is one of the easiest and most impactful ways to support our school. When you join, you’re not only supporting Maya Angelou French Immersion — you’re also joining the Maryland PTA and the National PTA, amplifying our collective voice for all children.
Why Join?
- Strengthen family-school partnerships
- Connect with other parents and caregivers
- Advocate for equity and support for every MAFI student