MATTAPOISETT — From holding fundraising events for student field trips to providing financial assistance to teachers, the Mattapoisett Parent Teacher Association does a lot, according to a press release from the Old Rochester Regional School District. 

The Mattapoisett PTA holds multiple fundraising initiatives throughout the year that provide funding to support field trips, bring student programming into the schools, provide financial assistance to teachers for equipment and supplies, and for staff appreciation. The organization supports the Old Hammondtown and Center Schools.

Over the summer, The Studio — located inside the Mattapoisett Wellness Studio — through owner Jenn Risio Ruel, raised money during the Summer Lighthouse Yoga Series at Ned’s Point to be donated to the Mattapoisett PTA. With the help of the school community and The Studio, the PTA raised additional funds to provide Old Hammondtown School students with two new soccer nets, an updated outdoor basketball court that included rims, poles and fresh paint, and repaired playground equipment.

The efforts of the Mattapoisett PTA also provided Old Hammondtown fifth-graders the opportunity to take a special field trip to Boston in October. Students went back in time to 1773 Boston where they met Samuel Adams in the old Meeting House, boarded the HMS Eleanor to tour the ship, learned about the Boston Tea Party and lead-up to the American Revolution and dumped tea into Boston Harbor.

“The PTA plays such a crucial role in supporting and enriching our school community," said Old Hammondtown Principal Kevin Tavares. "Their members' dedication truly makes a difference in creating a positive environment for students, teachers and families. It's great to see the PTA's efforts directly benefiting both teachers and students and we appreciate their support.”

For the Center School, support from the Mattapoisett PTA allowed for special grade-level field trips. Kindergarten students visited Zeiterion Theater, first-grade students visited Roger Williams Zoo and second-grade students visited the Lloyd Center. Third-grade students visited Plimoth Patuxet and the YMCA, and fourth-grade students participated in a painting day in the spring and were visited by a Zoomobile in the fall. Fifth-grade students visited Boston, and sixth-grade students went on a boat cruise in Buzzards Bay and visited the Museum of Science.

“Our PTA is an integral part of our school community," said Center School Principal Linda Ashley. "The events and fundraisers organized by the PTA bring our school community closer together and also provide valuable resources and opportunities for our students. The generous donations made by families and the commitment of our volunteers’ time enhance the educational experience of our students through field trips, enrichment programs and fun community-building events. Our staff members truly appreciate the support and recognition the PTA provides throughout the school year.”

Donations from the Mattapoisett PTA also supported the Old Hammondtown School cafeteria mural, as well as staff treats and celebrations, family nights and more. The Mattapoisett PTA also coordinates free community events such as BINGO night. In November, the PTA hosted the return of in-person bingo for Mattapoisett families at Old Hammondtown School.

"Deeply woven into the tapestry of Mattapoisett’s educational success is the unyielding support of our PTA," said Mattapoisett School Committee Chairperson Carly Lavin. "The PTA’s dedication bridges the gap between home and school, fostering an environment where our children thrive. Year after year, a multitude of volunteers come together, with the sole purpose of enriching the educational experience of our children. The Mattapoisett PTA is not just part of our school's story, it is part of its legacy. On behalf of the School Committee, I extend our heartfelt thanks to all current and past PTA members for your unwavering commitment, your invaluable contributions, and your inspiring collaboration."

The Mattapoisett PTA is open to all parents, teachers and community members. It is a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization run by volunteers supporting the Center School and Old Hammondtown School.