Welcome, new families and welcome back, returning families! My name is Jessica Egan and I am a vice president on the MSA Foundation Board, which is a group of parents who are integrally involved with the MSA community on many levels, with a focus on fundraising.
At this point, you and your student(s) must be looking forward to a new year at MSA. It’s an exciting time, filled with both anticipation and nerves. Whether you are new or just need a refresher, we are here to answer questions, give you the lowdown on what the year will look like, and keep you informed throughout the year on events and other Foundation news. With MSA celebrating 20 years, it couldn’t be a better time to be part of this artistic, energetic and supportive community.
This is an especially great time to get involved. With so many ways to engage, there is something for everyone as we all strive towards maximizing the MSA experience for our students. The MSA Foundation not only raises funds for MSA (which is our main goal), we also provide fun and gratifying volunteer opportunities for MSA families. Participating in events and attending booster meetings throughout the year will help you get to know other families as well as our incredibly talented teachers.
Join us at the first Town Hall on Monday, August 15! MSA Foundation members, faculty and staff will be there to answer your questions and make sure you feel ready for the school year. I also highly recommend reading our New Family FAQs, even returning families will find this helpful.
The MSA Foundation also produces, promotes and sends information to the school community about our two largest benefit events: Divine Wine & Food (fall) and MSA Showcase (spring). If you haven’t received updates from us about these events in the past or if you are a new family, please make sure you opt-in to receive information.
Ultimately, the Foundation’s biggest task is to help ensure MSA continues to thrive as it grows. It takes an additional $500,000 each year on top of our Novato Unified School District funding to provide the supplies, guest teaching artists, field trips, costumes, updated technology, instruments, lighting and sound equipment (and more!) for all our hardworking students.
Our Annual Giving Campaign is a critical part of this fundraising effort, and every single gift matters. We aim for 100% participation from all MSA families, at whatever level possible. Please visit our Ways to Donate page to learn how you can help us reach our goal. Thank you and I hope to see you on August 15!