We Depend on Parent (and Grandparent!) Volunteers
CIS encourages all parents to become actively involved in one or more parent association activities throughout the school year. Day, evening, and weekend opportunities are offered so that everyone can participate. All of us are aware that it is the willingness and generosity of parent volunteers that make CIS a better place for children and families.
Click here to view volunteer opportunities.
NEXT PA MEETING — Monday, February 23, at 6:00 p.m.
NEXT PA MEETING — Our next Parent Association meeting will be held in the Performing Arts Center at 6 pm on Monday, February 23. All parents are invited to participate! We will provide pizza from Pizza Tree and childcare. Please RSVP here, so we know how many babysitters and how much pizza to get. We will watch the webinar, “The science of motivating young people” by David Yeager, psychologist and author at the University of Texas at Austin. Dr. Yeager will speak about better ways to ensure our children feel inspired, passionate and empowered to do their best. See more information about the webinar here. School Counselor Jamie Blake will moderate this session., February 23, at 6:00 p.m.
ISACS Parent Series
The Parent Series is a year-long program offering 6 exceptional webinars designed for independent school parents & caregivers in all stages of their children’s growth. You must register to attend and access playbacks.
A Word from our PA President
Dear Columbia Independent School Families,
Welcome to the 2025–2026 school year! On behalf of the Parent Association (PA), I’m thrilled to extend a heartfelt welcome to both new and returning families as we begin another enriching year in our vibrant school community.
As PA President, my goal is to help cultivate a welcoming and inclusive environment—one where our children feel supported, challenged, and celebrated, and where families feel connected and engaged. The Parent Association is a passionate group of caregivers working hand-in-hand to enhance the academic, social, and emotional growth of every child at CIS.
Every parent and guardian is automatically part of our PA family. While meeting attendance is optional, we warmly invite you to join us and discover all the ways you can contribute. From volunteering at events to sharing ideas or simply lending encouragement, there’s a place for you here. You can explore our calendar of activities at the link below:
2025-2026 Activity Calendar for Families.
Let me take a moment to introduce myself. My name is Irma Arteaga, and I’m entering my fourth year as a proud CIS parent. I am also a faculty member at Mizzou, where I specialize in early childhood policy. At the core of my research is the finding that
parental involvement is a vital ingredient in shaping meaningful educational experiences. That’s why I’ve taken on this role: because when we collaborate with teachers and school leaders, we help create extraordinary learning experiences for our children.
This year promises to be full of engaging events and community-building opportunities, designed with flexibility in mind to accommodate all kinds of schedules. Whether you’re able to lend a hand on campus, volunteer from home, or simply cheer us on from the sidelines, your involvement makes a meaningful difference. It’s one of the reasons CIS is such a special place.
We value open communication and the partnership between families and the school. Please don’t hesitate to share your ideas, feedback, or questions—reach out to me or any member of the PA anytime at cispa@cislions.org.
Once again, welcome to the new school year. Let’s build something wonderful together.
Warmly,
Irma Arteaga
PA President, 2025-26
Get to Know our 2025-2026 Parent Association Volunteers
PA Executive Board
Irma Arteaga – President
Carolyn Spencer – Vice President
Tamra Soper – Secretary and Treasurer
Keira Hamann – Lower School Chair
Summer Ahmad – Middle School Chair
Rebecca Abadi – Upper School Chair
Bridgid Kinney – PA Liaison
PA Committee Chairs
Fundraising: Jennifer Orford
All School Picnic: Bridget Gruender
Lunch: Mariam Hobeldin
Spirit Store/Used Uniform Sale: Anna Stine
Media Center: Lori Miller
Teacher/Staff Appreciation Week: Summer Ahmad & Mariam Hobeldin
Teacher’s Luncheon: Rebecca Qu & Mariam Hobeldin
Bookfair: Robyn Jordan & Jamie Bormann
Ice Cream Social: Anna Stine & Julie Farmer
PA Volunteer Opportunities
CIS encourages all parents to become actively involved in one or more parent association activities throughout the school year. Some of our major events include:
Day, evening, and weekend opportunities are offered so that everyone can participate. All of us are aware that it is the willingness and generosity of parent volunteers that make CIS a better place for children and families. If you are interested in volunteering, email cispa@cislions.org to inquire. Thank you in advance for your participation!