Not quite sure what FRIES is up to these days or where you might like to contribute your support? Check out the FRIES committees below and learn more about our most important initiatives. Interested in learning more about a committee, volunteering your time, or have an idea for a new committee? Contact us!
Special Programming
One of FRIES main goals is to support and enhance educational programs at the school. Special Programming is the arm of FRIES where much of that research and planning is completed. We screen performances, interview artists, and ultimately work with Sheila McAdams to schedule and coordinate many of Winthrop’s special performances. The programs provide additional opportunities for the children to explore culture, literacy, science and math. We plan 5 programs a year including additional support that we provide to Science Day and Author’s week. Contact us to get involved!
The Budget Committee
The overall goal of the Budget Committee is to distribute funds that have been donated to FRIES with the intention of improving the educational experience of the students at Winthrop School. Teachers are encouraged to apply for these funds and their requests have varied this year from special assemblies, to a new iPod for gym classes, to a 5th grade field trip to the Boston Symphony Orchestra. All distributions are voted on during the budget committee meetings and then again at the general FRIES meeting. All parents are encouraged to attend and to be involved. Please come to the meetings & have your opinions heard! Contact us to get involved!
Winthrop Volunteers!
Winthrop Volunteers is a new approach to harness our community power, trying to make it easier for teachers and the school to make their requests known, and willing parents to get in there to experience their child’s school as much as possible. Sign up on our Volunteer Database today. One time events and longterm, regular help both exist. Together we can only be stronger!
Teacher Appreciation
Each year the Winthrop Elementary school community celebrates National Teacher Appreciation Week in early May by showing our appreciation for the entire school staff. There are more than 100 staff and teachers who educate and care for our children each day. To thank them for all they do, we coordinate breakfasts, fruits, and other small tokens of appreciation each day of the week. Many families donate their time, food, drink and money towards the luncheon where we serve the entire staff lunch, drinks and desserts in addition to raffling off donated items. Coordinating this event is ‘hands-down’ the easiest event as so many people want to help!!
Treasurer
We are a 501(c)3 charitable organization for which we need to keep detailed and accurate books. This role is critical to the operation.