Meet the New GPA President

Here’s the inside scoop on the Graland Parent Association leader for 2019-20, Blake Fisk! A member of the Graland community since 2013, Blake is the mom of three students and started volunteering with the GPA as a room parent when her oldest was in first grade. 

“I loved being a room parent,” she says. “Coming into school and being in the classroom with my kids, getting to know their teachers and participating in a slice of my kid’s day was awesome.” 

Now, as her kids have grown older and she has taken on more leadership roles within the GPA, Blake enjoys working closely with and getting to know the administration and faculty on a different level. “Monday through Friday, when I kiss my kids goodbye at drop off, I know with certainty that they are at a great school, in the best possible hands and off to have another adventure,” she shares. “That is a really good feeling.”

Speaking of her kids, Blake says, “For our family it seems the experiences at Graland have become more impactful as my kids get older. My fifth grader absolutely loved the fall trip to La Foret and participating in the musical, Mary Poppins. My fourth grader loved the Bike Hike and Ameritowne. My second grader loves Spanish, art class, P.E., and spending time with her seventh grade buddy.”

Now President-Elect to succeed Kate Gulick on July 1, Blake encourages all parents to give volunteering with the GPA a chance, especially new parents. 

“Simply attending GPA meetings is a great way to start if your schedule allows,” she says. “We have numerous opportunities for GPA involvement for working and stay-home parents. Helping with a school event such as Celebration of Cultures Dinner, Family Movie Night or Carnival is a great way to give back and connect with other parent volunteers.” While many times you can volunteer on campus, such as passing out treats at lunch, sorting and restocking books in the library and opening doors in the carline, the GPA also has opportunities for parents and caregivers to be involved from home and on weekends. 

“We also offer education opportunities when parents can come on campus without their kids and get to know their peers in an adults-only fashion,” Blake says. “Your time at Graland will be what you make of it; I hope you jump in!”

With the support of her husband Darren, Blake is optimistic about the challenges ahead: “There are so many moving parts to the GPA’s role at Graland. I’m honored to fill this position and to help guide our parent leaders to create experiences and opportunities that enhance and unify our community.”