Students and families are welcome to participate in Cougar Ridge Night at Skate King in Bellevue. Two skating parties per year are held - typically in Fall and Spring, and usually are from 6:00 - 8:00 pm. Children may not be dropped off - an adult must stay at Skate King with the child. These events are for Cougar Ridge students and their parents only.
Skate King is located at 2301 - 140th Avenue NE; Bellevue.

This committee is responsible for keeping the school grounds attractive through weed and litter control, flower and/or bulb planting, and maintenance of shrubs and bark. Chairperson may solicit work party help through parents, scouting organizations, student council and classrooms. Volunteers are needed and welcome at any time. Consider adopting a small area of the school grounds for ongoing care through the school year!

This committee represents families with children for whom special educational adaptations are necessary to ensure a successful educational experience. This includes children with learning disabilities and children with an Individual Education Plan. The chairperson works with Issaquah School District Special Needs staff and other community representatives as needed.

Cougar Ridge spiritwear is sold in the fall. Please contact the program chair if you have any questions or comments regarding our school's spiritwear.
Cougar Ridge orders may be place at www.c9sports.com/cougarridge/index.html during order windows. Watch the CR "Weekly" email for information on ordering timeframes.

The CASC is composed of parent, staff, and community representatives who work as a team to enhance the learning environment at Cougar Ridge. The CASC representative from the PTSA serves as a liaison and voting member of the CASC. He/she reports on PTSA activities during monthly CASC meetings and reports information from CASC back to the PTSA during monthly PTSA Board of Directors' meetings.

This committee provides a card or acknowledgment of concern from the PTSA to any person who is ill or has experienced a major mishap. Ongoing appreciation for the Cougar Ridge staff is expressed by periodically providing treats and signs in the staff room. This committee also recognizes the staff during American Education Week.
This committee provides recognition gifts to the Issaquah School District School Board during School Board Appreciation Month to acknowledge their efforts.

Cougar Ridge welcomes new and returning families immediately following "Meet the Teacher" with a social event at school. Families enjoy visiting with other Cougar Ridge families with ice cream, beverages, games and other fun activities. Volunteers are needed to sell tickets, set-up, distribute food, and clean-up.

This family-friendly, dad-run evening features a spaghetti dinner prepared and served by Cougar Ridge dads. Children enjoy dressing in family-friendly costumes and playing games. Volunteers are needed both before and day of the event. Registration is due by October 26th. Forms are available in the office.

The PTSA and the Newcomers Committee extends a warm welcome to all the new families who join the Cougar Ridge community. Please contact Debbie McMahan or Valerie Yanni, Newcomers Committee chairpersons, with any questions you have.
Description: Designed to welcome new families to the Cougar Ridge community, this committee provides valuable information about our school and greater community. Volunteers are needed to establish a social network for new families by visiting newcomers and attending monthly gatherings of welcome.

This Holiday Giving program provides food, clothing, and gifts at the holidays to needy families in our district while demonstrating to Cougar Ridge students the importance of charitable support for their greater community. The committee chairperson organizes and distributes item lists and requests for gifts/giftcards, clothing, and household items to Cougar Ridge families. Volunteers are needed to assist with the planning and creation of the Caring Through Sharing display, collecting, organizing, and delivering donations to appropriate locations.

This committee handles the PTA membership drive at the beginning of the year. We are striving for 100% membership!

Believing that birthdays are very special times but wanting to maximize classroom instruction time, it is Cougar Ridges policy to celebrate only with our monthly birthday program. A day is chosen each month (dates are above; also check The Weekly and The Outlook) to honor children whose birthdays occur within that month. Summer birthdays are celebrated during the childs half birthday month. A special birthday table is set up in the lunchroom and birthday children are treated to cupcakes provided by volunteers. Volunteers are needed to bake 12-18 cupcakes and to set up and decorate the table. Please indicate under Comments on the Volunteer Interest Form which month(s) you are interested in volunteering.

Scheduled through each class room parent, volunteers are needed to accompany and assist each classroom during its scheduled art class time. No experience necessary. Notify teacher and/or room parent.

The Classroom Support Coordinator works closely with teachers, specialists, and room parents to support specialist and classroom activities. Provides each teacher a list of suggested volunteer positions which can be filled on or before curriculum night. Provides training for volunteer room parents to explain Cougar Ridge and Issaquah School District policy and procedures for classroom parties, field trips, using the staff work room, and specialist support.

Many volunteer opportunities are offered to parents, usually on curriculum night. Each teacher will have his/her own classroom volunteer needs to fill and most jobs begin in October. They may include: book orders, clerical work, computer room assistance, field trip coordinator, mathematics, parties, photographs/videos, reading, resource, special projects, treats, word processing, and writing. Sign up with your classroom teacher or check Classroom Volunteer on the Volunteer Interest Form.

Works closely with the Cougar Ridge Library Specialist to identify volunteer needs for the library and schedules available volunteers. Parent volunteers are scheduled weekly in approximately one hour time blocks to assist with materials selection, location and check out. Volunteers assist with returns and maintain inventory in proper order. Ideally, each classroom will provide at least one library volunteer to accompany that class during its scheduled library time. Library volunteers have the opportunity to check out books of their own choice

Assist school nurse with conducting the yearly hearing and vision tests in the fall.

Student directories are distributed to all PTSA members in the fall. Additional copies of the student directory are typically available. If you would like a copy, please complete a PTSA membership application and return it to the Cougar Ridge office. Current PTSA members can purchase an additional copy of the student directory for five dollars.
Description: Each year a student directory is printed and distributed to all PTSA members (one per family). Committee members assist with editing, proofreading, printing and distribution.

The chairperson is responsible for recruiting and scheduling volunteers for events that come up throughout the year. Some of these events are scheduled in advance while others can come up on short notice, such as special receptions, patrol training/assistance, and specialists requests. Volunteers can sign up for particular events and/or be on call for all miscellaneous needs as available. If you would like to be informed of all volunteer calls by phone or e-mail, please check the Special Events include: Field Day - PE Specialist, School Photos, Turn Off the TV Week

The Webmaster maintains the Cougar Ridge PTSA website to contain current information. The web pages contain the published information of the PTSA, including newsletters, budget, meeting minutes and information about PTSA sponsored events.

This committee produces an annual Cougar Ridge yearbook available for purchase by students and staff, and delivered in June. The yearbook features every class, specialist, and school group. It highlights other activities that occur during the school year. The committee chairperson is the liaison between PTSA and the yearbook publishing company, works with and trains layout volunteers and photographers, ensures photos are taken at all school events, and ensures completion of each yearbook page. Volunteers are needed to photograph various school-wide and grade-level activities throughout the year. Volunteers also are needed for page layout in February to early April.
Each class is requested to secure a Class Photographer. This volunteer is responsible to take pictures of his/her assigned class events and candid pictures from the beginning of school through March. Class photographers do not need to attend committee meetings/workshops.

The Yearbook Sales chairperson is responsible for the advertising, sales, and distribution of the school yearbook. Volunteers are needed to assist with getting sales envelopes ready for pre-sales. The chairperson records sales of the yearbooks and communicates sales information to Yearbook chairperson. Additional time is spent in the last two weeks of school sorting and distributing the yearbooks. Chairperson also sells any extra yearbooks ordered. 3-4 volunteers are needed to help with distribution and year-end sales.

The database administrator (DBA) maintains an information database of families and students at Cougar Ridge. The DBA also creates lists and labels as needed for various PTSA committees.

Classroom phone callers have been equipped with phone lists in case the emergency phone tree needs to be activated.
The Emergency Preparedness Committee Chairperson has the responsibility of working with Cougar Ridge principal and staff representative to inventory and update all emergency supplies and procedures. Included in the procedures is the updating of the Emergency Phone Tree and the Weather Phone Tree. These are used to notify participating families of weather/disaster related school closures and/or scheduling changes. Chairperson coordinates with the Issaquah School District Emergency Preparedness Committee that meets during the school year. Volunteers are needed to check and replenish supplies. 3-4 volunteers are needed for each classroom for Emergency and Weather Phone Tree calling.

The PTSA's fiscal year is from July 1 through June 30. The audit of the current year's financial records takes place in July.
Description: The PTSA financial records are audited once or twice per year by this independent committee in accordance with Washington State PTA Guidelines. Three to five volunteers are needed once during the winter (if mid-year audit is performed) and in mid-July for 3-5 hours. A financial background is helpful.

The committee chairperson is responsible for securing and providing refreshments for PTSA meetings. He/She coordinates with volunteers to provide baked goods for various PTSA sponsored events throughout the year. He/She coordinates luncheon for the staff at Echo Glen during Staff Appreciation Week. The chairperson also works with hostess and PTSA secretary on end of year BOD Lucheon.

The Issaquah Schools Foundation is a private nonprofit organization that was formed in 1987 by a group of interested parents, teachers, business leaders and administrators to raise funds for Issaquah School District educational goals that would not otherwise be funded by regular school funding. The funds are generated yearly through varying fund raisers: All in for Kids/ Click for Kids in the fall and the Nourish Every Mind Spring Luncheon. Funds are distributed through specific grant requests that are consistent with the districts goals in education and technology. The Cougar Ridge ISF Liaison is responsible for promoting ISF events and securing volunteers as needed.

Membership in the Cougar Ridge PTSA is available to all parents and community members that support the objective of advocacy for the welfare of children and youth in home, school and community. The Cougar Ridge Student Directory is provided with each membership (one per family). The membership chairperson is responsible for collecting and recording all PTSA membership fees and distributing membership cards and student directories accordingly. The membership chairperson keeps an updated and accurate membership list for the PTSA and the Washington PTA organization.

Membership forms are distributed to all families in Opening Day Packets. We encourage every family to join. Cougar Ridge has proudly met our goal of 100% membership, annually, for over a decade. Find the PTSA Membership Form under Forms or in the school office. Your support funds Cougar Ridge PTSA programs like Science Fair, Art Fair, school newsletters, Gift-a-Book, and Student Council to name a few.

The PTSA Newsletter, Connections, is published periodically to provide information for the Cougar Ridge communit and includes in-depth articles on Cougar Ridge programs and activities, PTSA, education and community news, and messages from the Principal and PTSA President. The Newsletter Editor establishes deadlines and content and does some editing. Articles are submitted by PTSA committee members. Once published, each edition is copied and distributed and placed on the Cougar Ridge website. General distribution also falls under the job description. The Newsletter Editor must have publishing experience.

To help assemble next fall's Opening Day Packets, complete a Volunteer Interest Form and return it to the school office.
The Opening Day Packets chairperson is responsible for coordinating and assembling Opening Day Packets prior to the beginning of the school year. Opening Day Packets are given to each student on either "Meet Your Teacher" day or the first day of school. Opening Day Packets contain information and forms from the district, the school, and the PTSA. The chairperson begins coordinating packets when the school opens in August and obtains student labels fromt the Database Administrator right before the packets are assembled. Many volunteers are needed in late August and on the Tuesday before school starts to collate, stuff, and distribute the Opening Day Packets.

For 4th and 5th graders and their parents. Children and parents read the selected book together, then participate in an evening discussion with hands on activity. Coming soon! Check the "Weekly" school email for next date and to sign up.

The Parent Education committee identifies, organizes and assists with parent education programs throughout the year, with a variable time commitment depending on the chosen programs. The committee also maintains (commitment of 15-30 minutes per week) the parent education resource library, located in the main hallway, for the benefit and use of Cougar Ridge parents.

Many Parent Education classes and seminars are offered throughout the year. A current listing can always be found on the district website.

The Washington State PTA, in partnership with the National PTA, sponsors an arts education contest known as the Reflections Program, with a different theme each year. Students use their creativity to express themselves through original works of art. Categories include literature, musical composition, photography, visual arts, dance/choreography and film/video. Entries are judged at the local (Cougar Ridge), Council (Issaquah School District), Washington State PTA, and National PTA levels. Volunteers are needed to work with the local chairperson to promote Reflections at Cougar Ridge, distribute information and entries to students, identify local judges, display entries and organize a Reflections recognition reception at Cougar Ridge for participants. Time commitment varies. The current theme and complete information can be found at Washington State PTA.

A science fair is held each year in the spring and all students are invited to participate by entering a science project. Volunteers are needed to publicize the event, set-up tables and lead activities. A time commitment of several hours prior to and/or the day of the fair is needed. Go online to register to help.

All students in fourth and fifth grade are eligible to serve on the Cougar Ridge Student Council. Members participate in monthly meetings before school to hear interesting guest speakers and develop leadership skills. The Student Council organizes school spirit days and Humanitarian activities such as food and clothing drives for Cougar Ridge and the community. Parent volunteers are needed to provide help and guidance for various Student Council activities.
Student Council generally meets on the third or fourth Tuesday of the month.

The Parent Education committee identifies, organizes and assists with parent education programs throughout the year, with a variable time commitment depending on the chosen programs. The committee also maintains (commitment of 15-30 minutes per week) the parent education resource library, located in the main hallway, for the benefit and use of Cougar Ridge parents.

Many Parent Education classes and seminars are offered throughout the year. A current listing can always be found on the district website.

Destination Imagination (DI) is a regional program designed to help children develop self-confidence and learn to think creatively by solving problems in a team setting. The committee chairperson is responsible for promoting and organizing a parent information night in the Fall to encourage participation. Groups are organized by grade level and individual student schedules. Meeting times are flexible and determined by the volunteer coach for each group. The committee will plan and facilitate a practice competition event as well as one or more practice performances prior to the regional DI competition held in the Spring. 1-2 volunteer coaches are needed to lead each group, no experience needed. Coaches encourage students to stay on task while they develop their own solution. Training and support is provided throughout the year.

The Festival of Cultures occurs in alternate years and is next planned for the school year 2012-2013. The evening event features Country Booths (run by CR families) including arts and crafts, food samples, etc. Students are encouraged to learn a fact at each booth to get their "passports" stamped. Performances included songs, dances, music, and a traditional dress parade. Volunteers are needed to work on the planning committee, to create/sponsor country displays, plan arts and crafts projects, and bring performances/work with students on performances.

The Gift-A-Book program was developed to help supply and support the Cougar Ridge library inventory. Books donated to the library through this popular PTSA program are specially dedicated by attaching bookplates commemorating occasions such as birthdays, volunteer service, friendship, events or special achievements. Book donations are featured on the Gift-A-Book display located outside the library. The chairperson is responsible for distributing birthday letters to students, promoting Gift-a-Book during the Book Fair, processing books, writing thank you notes, contributing Gift-A-Book updates for The Weekly and PTSA Connections Newsletter, and planning, installing and maintaining a Gift-a-Book display. A flyer will go home with students during his/her birthday month, but contributions of books or money can be made for any occasion. Download a Gift-a-Book flyer here.

We are currently looking for a parent or team of parents to run Math Club. The volunteers would be involved in redesigning Math Club. Many aspects of the program remain flexible including grades served, time of meeting, and focus (competition preparation, hands-on games, or both). The club would seek to strengthen kids' mathematical intuition and problem solving skills in a fun and engaging setting. If desired, participants may be encouraged to compete in competitions. If you are interested in volunteering please contact the VP, Programs.

The Cougar Ridge PTSA Science Fair is held each year in the spring, and all students are invited to participate by entering a science project.

The committee chairperson is responsible for organizing Spring Open House/Art Fair in collaboration with the Spring Open House chairperson. Volunteers are needed to assist with the Art Fair in the areas of display and student recognition. Chairperson and volunteers also collaborate with the principal and/or staff for special projects on an as-needed basis.

The PTSA financially sponsors several assemblies throughout the school year. The PTSA Assemblies chairperson works with school staff to present assemblies that enrich the curriculum. Occasionally, volunteers are needed to assist with assemblies during the school day. Time involvement varies but usually consists of a morning or afternoon shift.

The awards committee generates and oversees awards and recognition for Cougar Ridge and members of its community. The committee works with the PTSA Executive Committee on applications for state PTA awards. The committee coordinates with the PTSA Executive Committee to recognize the efforts of committee chairs.
The committee is also responsible for the Golden Acorn and Outstanding Advocate awards. The awards committee coordinates and oversees nomination, selection, and presentation of the Golden Acorn and Outstanding Advocate Awards of the Washington State PTA. Presentation of these awards occurs at school and Issaquah PTSA Council ceremonies.

The Book Fair is an annual event, occurring in October. Cougar Ridge works in partnership with Scholastic Book Club. Please contact a Book Fair Chairperson for additional information. Profits (books & funds) from the PTSA sponsored Book Fair help enrich Cougar Ridge learning each year. The chairperson acts as liaison between the PTSA and the book company, schedules volunteers, arranges deposits with PTSA Treasurer, orders supplies and arranges publicity for the fair. Approximately 20-30 volunteers are needed to help with publicity, set up displays, cashier, and take down displays.

Every two years, Cougar Ridge PTSA holds an auction to raise funds. This fundraiser, along with gift wrap sales, provides the bulk of the PTSAs income and enables PTSA to fund its many programs. The Cougar Ridge community has enthusiastically supported PTSA auctions in the past. Many volunteer opportunities with varying time commitments are available for the auction.
In years where no auction is held, a spring social event takes place.

The PTSA has rebate programs with several retailers. Click here to find out how to earn money for the PTSA while doing your shopping! This committee's chairperson is responsible for encouraging participation by Cougar Ridge students, families and friends in the Corporate Rebate programs supported by the PTSA. He/She also oversees submission and collection of required forms. The chairperson, along with the Vice President of Ways and Means, annually evaluates and selects corporations with which to form rebate relationships. Volunteers are needed to help facilitate the program throughout the year.

Issaquah Schools Foundation grants have been awarded for the current school year. Cougar Ridge teachers can work with this PTSA member to have their grant writing ideas written out and submitted on their behalf.

This special and fun filled week is devoted to honoring our multi-talented staff at Cougar Ridge. A committee of volunteers is needed to generate ideas for the week that involve students and parents, as well as implementing the activities. Time commitment can vary and areas of need include decorations, luncheon planning, gift making, and supply shopping. This is a terrific opportunity to thank our amazing school staff!

Description: This committee organizes and hosts a luncheon for the staff prior to the opening of school. Volunteers are needed to organize, prepare food, set-up, serve, and clean-up.

The Cougar Ridge PTSA Legislation chairperson keeps our membership informed on legislative action and news by maintaining a legislative presence to advocate laws that are in the best interest of our children. The Washington State PTA is a grassroots organization that focuses its legislative efforts on issues chosen by PTA members through Legislation representatives who meet locally, regionally and at a state assembly each year.
Periodically, as certain legislation approaches a vote, the PTA/PTSA will encourage communication to legislators by phone, letter or e-mail by its members. As advocates for our children, parents are encouraged to communicate their opinion to their legislators on issues that impact education in Washington State.