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After a community vote, we shifted from a PTA to a PTSA. To gather some insights into the "S" in our newly minted organization, we sat down with freshman Shrinand Patnaik, our first student liaison from Ardsley High School.

First, how did you get involved with the PTSA?
I'm on the Student Council, and our advisor asked for ideas on how we could collaborate with the PTSA. When she asked if anyone would be interested in being a student liaison, I raised my hand. 

What was the reaction to that request?
Honestly? It was mostly confusion. Most of my peers didn't know what the PTSA is or what the organization does.

Now that you've worked with the PTSA for a few months, what have you learned about it?
It's really about making the community more connected. There are a lot of organizations out there, but this is the only one that unites teachers, students and the community as a whole. 

Did anything surprise you?
I was very surprised to learn that the PTSA gives grants to teachers and hosts guest speakers. There is a lot of behind-the-scenes work that I didn't realize.

In both the Student Council and in your new role on the PTSA, you've been involved in a lot of community activities. What inspires that?
I moved here from California when I was 7, and at first I hated it. I missed my friends and my life back there. But everyone showed me such kindness that I became enchanted by the community. There's a strong sense of caring and friendship in Ardsley, and this is my way of repaying that. 

What are some of the benefits that come from volunteering?
For me personally, I feel like I understand people better. If I'm helping someone who is struggling, I'm more grateful for what I have. Doing these kinds of activities changes your mindset and creates a stronger sense of wanting to help others. 

How do you fit it all in between school, extracurriculars and community work?
I have three different calendars lined up! And my parents have supported me every step of the way. They're always behind every decision to help me succeed. 

What do you hope to accomplish in your role?
I want to keep getting students more excited and involved in school and community events. I think what's appealing to students is understanding how they can impact their world, and what is their place in that world. So the best thing anyone can do is to show up. 

Want to learn more? Check out the Rivertowns Enterprise feature story, "Parent-teacher groups sharpen focus on students."