Issue link: https://publications.tfs.ca/i/1531851
Deep within the thriving ecosystem of our community exists a group of individuals who add life to every corner of TFS. These are the parent volunteers of our school, who, like co-founders Harry and Anna Giles, have devoted countless hours to help turn the idea of an exceptional bilingual education into a reality. "We are passionate volunteers," says Rosa Maria Barbara, President of the Parents' Association (PA) and a volunteer since 2010. "We believe in our community and our kids, and want to make it a better place." This deep commitment drives some of the most anticipated events at TFS, including Kermesse, our extraordinary fun fair that requires months of meticulous planning, and smaller efforts like Pizza Days, where a small army of parents helps serve over 33,000 slices of pizza annually. Each year, over 200 parents step up and become PA volunteers, enriching the student experience and transforming school spaces, bringing in everything from musical instruments and science lab equipment to cutting-edge technologies like STEAM kits and 3D printers. Their contributions go far beyond the classroom – fuelling a culture of creativity, innovation and community. This spirit of volunteerism runs deep in TFS' history, with parents playing a pivotal role in the school's growth since its inception. BUILDING TFS TOGETHER Parents have been at the forefront of the school's ongoing transformation from the very beginning. In 1966, the small yet mighty parent community, who shared Harry and Anna's vision for TFS, formally initiated a Parents' Auxiliary, with the goal of raising funds for a dedicated school building. Bringing French flair to Toronto was their speciality and it worked, drawing in large crowds who sought to experience joie de vivre. In true TFS fashion, one of the first events hosted by the humble committee was a French extravaganza, Alouette A Go-Go, featuring charming dancers, exquisite cuisine and live music at Yorkdale Mall. Fast forward to 1971. Their creative fundraising efforts, coupled with the leadership and support of board members, led to $400,000 raised for the construction of TFS' first high school at 101 Mildenhall Avenue. Their collective vision and commitment were instrumental in turning this pivotal project into a reality. UNITING UNIQUE TALENTS "It's such a diverse range of experiences and everybody brings something to the table," says Rosa Maria. "It's not surprising to me that a lot of these kids are like global citizens because their parents are emulating that for them through the Parents' Association," adds Adele Vellathottam, the PA's Junior School Branch Coordinator. With over 60 languages spoken in the community, the Parents' Association draws on its members' diverse perspectives, talents and skills to create meaningful experiences for students. From cultural The Heartbeat of TFS: Engagement, Community Building, Volunteers By Michelle Castillo From left to right, members of the 2024 Marché d'hiver committee Miriam Gaid, Nattaya Lam, Stephen Wong, Regina Chui 28 ENTRE NOUS