Home & School Associations - Explore the South Orange & Maplewood School District

Get Involved in Our School Community

Our schools thrive because of volunteers who share their time, talents, and resources. The SOMSD encourages and supports a variety of parent/caregiver volunteer organizations whose goal is to promote the educational interests of our students — including our Parent-Teacher Associations (PTAs), Home-School Associations (HSAs), the Special Education Parents Advisory Committee (SEPAC), and the Presidents’ Council.

HSA / PTA Guidelines

View the guidelines for HSA and PTA volunteerism in the district.

Join Other Parents

Stay connected and engaged

One of the most effective ways for families to be engaged in their student's school experience is through their school's PTA, HSA, or SEPAC.

Why PTAs, HSAs, and SEPAC Matter

In the South Orange & Maplewood School District, these volunteer-led groups:

Build connections between families, teachers, and administrators
Create a welcoming environment for all
Organize events, fundraisers, and volunteer opportunities that strengthen students' learning experiences

SEPAC provides support, guidance, and community for students with special education needs and their families.

Each PTA and HSA welcomes volunteers at all levels, whether in a leadership role or through one-time event support. There is a place for every schedule, and each contribution makes a meaningful difference.

Presidents' Council

What is the Presidents' Council?

The Presidents' Council (PC) is composed of the elected presidents and vice presidents from every school PTA and HSA, as well as SEPAC. Its mission is to:

Support collaboration and knowledge sharing among PTAs and HSAs
Facilitate open, productive dialogue with the district
Foster and strengthen community by connecting school leaders and other community organizations

The members of the Presidents' Council work to amplify the impact of every school organization and to ensure that all voices are heard.

Structure and leadership

The Presidents' Council (PC) is a non-supervisory body and does not direct or manage individual PTAs or HSAs. Each local unit operates independently under its own bylaws and leadership.

PC is led by two co-presidents who serve as facilitators and connectors, coordinating collaboration and communication across schools. They are elected to staggered two-year terms and are supported by a small executive board, elected annually.

All executive board members are past members of the council. They provide administrative and coordination support to the council and serve as a resource for individual PTA, HSA, and SEPAC units.

Questions?
Reach out to the current co-presidents:

📧 Ildi Conrad: ildiconrad@gmail.com

📧 Meisha Bertels Williams: sms.pta.meisha@gmail.com

Columbia High School

Columbia High School thrives thanks to a community that shows up in every way. Alumni keep the Cougar spirit moving forward through the Columbia High School Alumni Association, while families partner closely with the Home and School Association to keep school life vibrant and connected. The Music Parents' Association hits all the right notes by championing our student performers, and the Scholarship Fund helps open doors for graduates ready to take their next big step. These organizations form a support system that strengthens every corner of the CHS experience.

Logo Image

In This Section