What is the Parent Teacher Council (PTC)?

The Avoca PTC transforms your school into a community. We are proud to be a resource for teachers, students and families and to offer a variety of opportunities for you to get to know your school community. The Avoca PTC includes families and staff at both Avoca District 37 schools: Avoca West Elementary School (AW) and Marie Murphy Jr. High School (MM). We encourage you to join the Avoca PTC and contact us at any time to share your thoughts, concerns and questions. 

PTC Mission Statement

Avoca District 37 Parent Teacher Council (PTC) is a membership* of parents, teachers, and staff who are dedicated to fostering the educational, social, and overall well-being of each student at Avoca Community Preschool, Avoca West School, and Marie Murphy School. We serve these students by promoting a closer working relationship among district families, the school, and the community at large.

The purpose of the PTC is to:

  • Offer a forum for ideas, concerns, and information

  • Promote parent involvement

  • Provide assistance to teachers through volunteerism

  • Assist administration in communicating school information

  • Sponsor social and educational events for students, families, and the community

  • Fund special school programs through a variety of fund-raising events throughout the school year.

2024- 2025 PTC Executive Committee

  • President: Mary Jean Mendizabel

  • AW Vice President: Clare Mitchell

  • MM Vice President: Eugenia Hsin

  • Treasurer: Zach Favakeh     

  • Secretary: OPEN       

  • Director of Communications: Lauren Rivera-Haire

  • Director of Fundraising: Dana Burris

  • Director of Membership: Sara Shepard

  • Director of Volunteers: OPEN

  • Director of Innovation Grants: Jinie Papaioannou

  • Avoca West Principal: Jessica Hutchison

  • Marie Murphy Principal: Elena Ryan

  • Superintendent of Schools: Dr. Sandra Arreguín 

  • Avoca West Teacher Liaisons: Shayna Schneider & OPEN

  • Marie Murphy Teacher Liaison: Amanda Hoffmeister & Kathy Pagakis