The Student–Family Organization (SFO) is an inclusive, welcoming group of families, caregivers, and staff who work together to support the academic, social, and community life of Mountain City Public Montessori (MCPM). The SFO fosters a strong school community by encouraging collaboration, volunteer engagement, and events that connect families with the school’s mission and the Montessori way of learning. 

All parents, guardians, caregivers of current MCPM students, and school staff are invited to participate. The SFO operates as a supportive partnership with school leadership and reports to the Directorate Family Engagement Committee. 

Mission

To build community, strengthen family-school partnerships, and support student learning by fostering active involvement, shared responsibility, and joyful participation in school life rooted in Montessori principles.

Core Functions of the SFO

Committees

The SFO is organized into committees that focus on key areas of school life. Each committee welcomes volunteers and supports goals through clear roles and collaborative planning.

a. Family Engagement Committee

  • Coordinates opportunities for families to participate in school life.
  • Supports monthly SFO meetings and school-wide celebrations.
  • Partners with teachers and leadership on family education nights.

b. Fundraising Committee

  • Plans and implements fundraisers that support classroom needs, school improvements, and community-building events.
  • Works with the school to align fundraising goals with broader strategic priorities.
  • Helps with grant awareness and community sponsorships.

c. Facilities & Campus Environment Committee

  • Supports beautification and maintenance of shared spaces.
  • Organizes workdays and family-led projects (e.g., gardens, outdoor learning spaces, student events).
  • Helps coordinate improvements that enrich the Montessori environment.

d. Classroom Engagement Committee

  • Organizes volunteer support for classroom activities and teacher needs.
  • Helps with special projects, celebrations, and materials preparation.
  • Works with guides to identify meaningful family involvement opportunities.

e. Community Engagement & Outreach Committee

  • Builds partnerships with local organizations, businesses, and community members.
  • Promotes MCPM on social platforms and at community events.
  • Supports family-to-family connection networks.

Fundraising & Giving

MCPM thrives through voluntary family involvement and fundraising that enhances the school experience beyond what public funding alone can provide. Fundraising efforts may include:

  • Annual giving campaigns
  • School community events and celebrations
  • Silent auctions and local business partnerships
  • Grant-writing support and donor outreach

Funds raised may be directed toward classroom materials, outdoor enhancements, events that build community, or special enrichment opportunities.

Community Engagement

The SFO plays an essential role in fostering the school’s connection to the broader Asheville community. Efforts include:

  • Promoting school events that are community-facing
  • Encouraging partnerships with local cultural and educational institutions
  • Supporting volunteer initiatives beyond the classroom

These efforts reinforce the school’s vision of cultivating a supportive and inspiring environment where all can thrive. 

Classroom Engagement & Volunteerism

Family involvement in the classroom enriches the learning experience and strengthens the school community. Volunteers may assist with:

  • Supporting hands-on learning projects
  • Preparing classroom materials
  • Helping with celebrations and student-led exhibitions
  • Sharing skills based on family talents and professions

Volunteering is always coordinated with classroom guides to ensure it respectfully supports Montessori pedagogy.

Meeting Schedule

The SFO meets regularly throughout the school year. Meetings are scheduled to be accessible to all families and are announced through:

Meeting agendas include updates from committees, planning for upcoming events, and opportunities to share ideas and feedback.

How to Get Involved

Anyone interested in joining the SFO or serving on a committee can:

  • Attend monthly SFO meetings
  • Reach out through the SFO email contact or school front office
  • Sign up via school communications or during family education events

Your involvement—large or small—makes a meaningful difference in our school community.