The Orcas Island Schools’ Parent-Teacher-Student Association (PTSA) plans a major event each week in September as the new school year begins.

On Wednesday morning, Sept. 3 the New Family Welcome Tea takes place from 8:45 to 9:45 a.m. in the School Library.

Families new to the Orcas Island School District, as well as families of new Kindergarteners, are invited to an informal gathering – including refreshments – to meet school administration, the PTSA Board, and other families new to the district and to learn more about the public school district.

The following Wednesday, Sept. 10, is the school year’s first PTSA meeting from 5:30 to 7 p.m. in the School Library.

The meeting will include a presentation by School Superintendent and High School Principal Barbara Kline regarding changes in staffing and programs from last year to this, and an opportunity to discuss the administrative realignment with her and K-8 Principal, Tom Gobeske. Childcare is provided.

On Tuesday, Sept. 16, the Back-to-School BBQ/Potluck is held from 5 to 7 p.m. behind the Elementary School.

PTSA President Barb Skotte says, “Bring a dish to share and join families from the elementary, middle and high schools for our annual Back-to-School BBQ. The PTSA will provide complimentary hot dogs, tofu dogs, utensils/napkins and drinks, and students from the schools’ music programs will perform. Please join us for a wonderful evening!”

On the last Friday in Septmeber, the PTSA-Sponsored Friday Night Rollerskating evenings bring fun for the whole family to the old gym.

Beginning Sept. 26, every Friday evening will bring roller skating to the gym, starting at 6 p.m. when for an hour, the gym is reserved for beginning and young skaters (and their parents), age eight and under.

From 7 to 9 p.m. all ages skate. This session includes the ever-popular grade-by-grade races, promises Skotte. The cost for the each one hour session is $2 (skate rental included). Outside skates are not allowed.