Our PTA

The people who make up the Highlands PTA make a real difference at Highlands and support the programs and staff positions that give Highlands its unique learning environment. We are a volunteer group of parents, guardians, and teachers who want to show our support for our teachers and execute on supporting important programs for our kids.

Those listed below volunteered to provide leadership this year.

2026-2027 Board

• President: Alexis Van Lingen
• Executive Vice President: Lijay Shih
• VP of Programs: (Open)
• VP of Communications: Diana Smiljanic
• VP of Membership: Megh Gautam
• VP of Fundraising: (Open)
• Recording Secretary: Shraddha Sadekar
• Treasurer: Marianne Hayes
• Financial Secretary: Robin Zhang
• Financial Reviewer (Auditor): Christopher Loo
• Historian: Stephanie Moran
• Parliamentarian: Dulini Welihinda

Interested in joining the Board. Please contact Karrie Haselton khaselton@smfc.k12.ca.us for more information.  

PTA Leadership & Key Volunteer Openings

• VP Fundraising: Helps lead the PTA’s fundraising efforts, including the SMART Fund and other campaigns that support Highlands programs and activities.

• VP Programs: Helps coordinate and support PTA-sponsored programs, enrichment, and community events throughout the school year.

• Technology Lead: Helps manage and improve the PTA’s digital tools and systems, including the website, Membership Toolkit, Google Workspace/Google for Nonprofits, shared accounts, and other technology projects.

There are lots of ways to get connected. Complete our Volunteer Interest Form, reach out to your child’s teacher or Room Parent, connect with a current PTA Board member or reach out to Karrie Haselton khaselton@smfc.k12.ca.us and we’ll help point you in the right direction.

There are many ways to be part of the Highlands community — both in your child’s classroom and across the school.

Whether you have an hour to volunteer, a skill to share, or are interested in taking on a larger role, we’d love to hear from you.

Resources

• California PTA link to website
• National PTA link to website

We look forward to serving our teachers, principal, students, and parent community this year!