SCHEDULE A TOUR

Parent Organization

ESPO (Emerson School Parent Organization)

The Emerson School Parent Organization (ESPO) exists to support Emerson’s mission by creating opportunities for families to build friendships and community. Unlike a traditional PTO, ESPO is not an independent organization. Instead, it is made up of parent volunteers who partner directly with the school to facilitate activities that strengthen our community.

 

Grade Representatives encourage communication among families and assist faculty throughout the year, while Event Leads plan and carry out community events. The only fundraiser is the annual bake sale, with all proceeds dedicated to supporting faculty and staff appreciation. Thanks to the time and energy of our many volunteers, ESPO plays a vital role in making Emerson such a special place.

Upcoming Events

Throughout the year, ESPO hosts community-building events for families. Announcements and sign-ups are shared in the Emerson Family Newsletter and through Grade Representatives. Highlights of the fall include:

  • Tuesday, September 2 — First Day Coffee near the front doors of the school after drop-off. A chance to meet other parents and celebrate the first day.

  • Sunday, September 7 — Back to School Bash on the playground, 4:00–6:00 PM, with treats, music, and family activities. Meet your Grade Representatives in person.

  • Tuesday, September 30 — Parent Coffee in the Commons after drop-off, an informal gathering with parents and staff.

 

Another popular tradition is Pizza Lunch on Wednesdays, where parent volunteers distribute pizza during lunch periods. Sign-up links are provided in the Family Newsletter.

ESPO Leadership 2025-2026

A Coordinating Committee and Event Leads ensure that events and programs run smoothly. For the 2025–2026 school year:

COORDINATING COMMITTEE

  • Coordinator: Diane Cooper
  • Committee Members: Michelle Sheler, and Sheetal Amin
  • Pizza Lead: Matt Twetten
  • Grade Representative Lead: Michelle Sheler

GRADE-LEVEL REPRESENTATIVES

  • Young Fives: Sona Wardius

  • Kindergarten: Kara Carwell

  • 1st Grade: Kara Carwell, Jinan Hamood

  • 2nd Grade: Sarah Cleve

  • 3rd Grade: Michelle Sheler

  • 4th Grade: Richa Modak, Alex Hristov

  • 5th Grade: Trisha Heusel, Arielle Patton, Melissa Porter

  • 6th Grade: Tiffany Beckerleg, Rupal Bhatnagar

  • 7th Grade: Smriti Mohan, Jessi Arkwright

  • 8th Grade: Holly Ross

EVENT CHAIRS

  • Welcome Back Bash: Diane Cooper

  • Lower School Family Dance: Emily Osment

  • Halloween Lead: OPEN

  • Faculty and Staff Meals: Christopher Bergmans

  • Book Fair: Carly Thanhouser

  • Bake Sale: Michelle Sheler

  • Teacher Appreciation: Sarah Rimer; Holly Ross; Sarah Cleve

  • Winter Family Event: Smriti Mohan

  • Field Day: Diane Cooper 

We invite and encourage you to join us! No experience is necessary and any amount of time you would like to give is appreciated. If you are interested in being involved with ESPO, please speak to your Grade Representative or any ESPO member, or e-mail us at ESPO@emerson-school.org.

SCHEDULE A TOUR