Before my child started at my school, I thought I understood parent engagement. I knew the strategies, the timelines, the talking points. Then came the first preschool drop-off — and the chaos that followed — and everything I thought I knew about parents changed.


In this session, I’ll share how becoming a school parent reshaped the way I approach fundraising. From communication and timing to empathy and trust, I’ll reflect on what shifted when I began seeing school life through a parent’s eyes. You’ll hear a few honest stories and take away practical ways to build stronger relationships and a deeper culture of generosity in your own school community.