Parent Support Group
Come join us!
The Parent Support Group (PSG) is made up of parents who come together to promote a sense of belonging and mutual support among all members of the school community.
The PSG achieves this by organizing activities for CAISL families and staff, as well as some adults-only activities during the school days. To get an idea of the variety of activities, scroll down on this page or visit our dedicated activities page.
The group brings together a significant number of parent volunteers and functions without a hierarchical structure. They meet at least once a month, charge no fees and any school parent is welcome to attend.
Event Samples
Below is a sampling of events the group puts together yearly. Please note, activities vary each year based on PSG member rotation and input.
The PSG benefits from all kinds of parental involvement. Some parents like to be involved in the planning of events, while some prefer to simply volunteer on event days. Member participation varies—from 'very involved,’ to 'giving a hand when it is possible;’ from 'coming to every meeting,' to 'never attends meetings'—and that is absolutely fine!
CAISL Welcome Back Picnic
For all ages and all community members
In September there is usually a Welcome Picnic, sometimes with a theme. In September of 2019, the party was called 'CAISL Western BBQ'. It was pouring rain outside but it was hard to notice with so much fun happening inside.
TREKKING EVENTS
For parents only, about once a month.
CAISL is fortunate to be located very close to Serra de Sintra and the sea. The PSG meets regularly to explore enchanted places nearby and build a strong sense of community among parents.
PSG BOOK CLUB
For parents only, about once a month.
CAISL parents also enjoy reading and exchange ideas about what they read. Previously read books include Becoming by Michelle Obama, A Long Petal of the Sea by Isabel Allende, and The first Global Village by Martin Page.
Movie Night
For all families, about twice a year.
Family movie nights are always fun but even better if they are also shared with friends. The PSG selects a movie, decorates accordingly, and invites everyone to the screening in CAISL's spacious theater at no charge.
Fundraising activity
For parents only
The PSG usually does about one fundraising activity per year to offset the expenses of any activity that did not break even. Usually, this event happens during the Fall Tournament and it consists of a concession stand.
winter season decoration of the school
For parents only.
During one day in early December, a bunch of elves get together and, in a few hours, transform the school with lights, ornaments and lots of spirit.
santa in the building
For Pre-schoolers: EC3/4 and Kindergrten.
One special day in December, Santa, and his most trusted elf, come to meet the children in Pre-school and don't leave until all children have had a chance to whisper their special wishes.
Teacher appreciation
For parents, faculty and staff.
Every year, this group prepares a special way to say 'Thank You' to CAISL teachers and staff. From small gifts, to preparing a special meal, it is always meaningful and heartfelt.
CAISL is a student-centered educational community in which we challenge ourselves and each other to do our best and to make positive contributions to our diverse and ever-changing world.