Educational Pathways Academy (EPA) recently held the first meeting of our Parent Teacher Organization (PTO), where we proudly announced our new name: the Pathways Parent Association (PPA). The Pathways Parent Association is dedicated to cultivating a supportive community and lasting connections for all students and families at EPA.

The evening was a resounding success, filled with connection, laughter, and meaningful discussions. Our Founder and Head of School, Molly Arthur, warmly welcomed attendees, expressing heartfelt gratitude for the incredible support from our EPA families and sharing her aspirations for the year ahead. Candace Johnson, Director of Advancement, followed with exciting updates on new initiatives aimed at furthering our mission and enriching the student experience at EPA.

One of the evening’s highlights was an icebreaker where parents created a timeline of when they became part of the EPA family. It was inspiring to hear the many stories of students' growth, newfound confidence, and a renewed love of learning since joining EPA.

PPA President Lori Kitchen highlighted the exciting opportunities for parents to get involved this year and invited them to sign up for various volunteer roles as the evening concluded. We’re thrilled to see such strong enthusiasm and commitment!

What is the Pathways Parent Association (PPA)?

The Pathways Parent Association (PPA) at Educational Pathways Academy serves as the primary volunteer group within our school and invites all parents to participate. PPA members play an important role as advocates for EPA, actively encouraging volunteerism and participation from our school community. The PPA leadership works closely with the school to organize and lead community-building events each year, fostering connection and support among families while enriching the overall experience for students.

Throughout the year, the PPA holds meetings that are open to all parents, providing opportunities for involvement and collaboration. Additionally, various committees will meet to focus on specific projects and events, ensuring every detail is thoughtfully managed.

How Can You Get Involved?

We invite all EPA parents to join the Pathways Parent Association (PPA) and help strengthen our school community. There are countless ways to get involved, whether you have time to lead an event, assist in a supporting role, purchase supplies, contribute to teacher appreciation efforts, or share the great work happening at EPA through social media. Additionally, parents can support our Director of Advancement, Candace Johnson, by assisting with tasks related to fundraising efforts and helping to build connections with the broader community. We welcome your ideas and enthusiasm to strengthen our EPA community—not just for our students, but for their families as well.

As a school dedicated to students with learning disabilities, we understand that EPA families have unique experiences. The PPA offers a wonderful opportunity for parents to connect with others who share similar challenges and triumphs. By participating, you’ll not only help create a strong, supportive environment for students but also foster meaningful connections among parents navigating similar journeys.

If you’re interested in contributing in any capacity, whether large or small, we encourage you to attend our meetings, offer your ideas, or simply reach out to the PPA leadership to learn more. Together, we can build a thriving community that enhances the educational experience for every child at EPA. We look forward to a fantastic year and hope to see you at our upcoming events!