As the president of the Parent-Teacher Association (PTA) from 2022-24 and a parent of four children, Rowena's journey at Ohlone embodies the essence of active involvement, advocacy, and unwavering commitment.
With all four of her children either alumni or current students at Ohlone, Rowena's connection to the school runs deep. "We started only in 2017, so we've now been there seven years," she shares, reflecting on her family's journey. "My children are currently in K, third, sixth, and ninth grade." Her enthusiasm for Ohlone's unique approach to education, rooted in project-based learning and a holistic philosophy, led her family to make a deliberate choice in favor of the school. "We really saw Ohlone as a continuation of that kind of education that centers on the child," Rowena explains. "And I would say the thing that I've loved most about Ohlone is it's been able to embrace each of my children, wherever they are at, with their learning."
Beyond her role as a parent, Rowena's impact reverberates throughout the school community as the outgoing president of the PTA. Stepping into this role in the fall of 2022, Rowena embarked on a mission to foster community cohesion and involvement, essential pillars of Ohlone's ethos. "What we focused on these couple of years is trying to rebuild community," she remarks. "Ohlone is a school that's very much dependent on its parent community... anyone that has a vision for something they want to do, whether it is academic, connected, or simply social, is very welcome to come and use the school as a platform."
Under Rowena's leadership, the PTA's initiatives have flourished, ranging from academic endeavors the STEM fair and robotics clubs to social gatherings like the pancake breakfast and World Culture Day. She emphasizes the importance of these events as avenues for parent involvement and community building. "I like to see people building community," Rowena asserts, highlighting the role of events in fostering connections beyond peer-to-peer interactions.
Rowena's advocacy for parent involvement extends beyond organized events; it permeates the fabric of everyday interactions within the school. "Kids at elementary age really appreciate their parents showing up for them," she observes. "Embrace that, because when you get to middle and high, they're not quite so happy to see you." Rowena's insights underscore the significance of parental presence in shaping a supportive and nurturing learning environment.
Central to Rowena's vision for Ohlone is the notion of continuity and long-term engagement. She pays homage to educators like Nancy, her children's K-1 teacher, whose dedication and skill have enriched the learning experience. "The skill with which she manages a mixed-age classroom... is a beautiful thing to behold," Rowena shares, emphasizing the importance of fostering harmony and collaboration among students of varying abilities and backgrounds.
In advocating for increased parent involvement, Rowena issues a compelling call to action, stressing the fundamental role of parents in sustaining Ohlone's unique model. "Ohlone is not like neighborhood schools... it is literally a choice program where parents have elected to be there," she asserts. The "school literally will not survive if each and every family doesn't give their time and their passion." Rowena's impassioned plea underscores the collective responsibility to uphold and nurture the ethos of parent participation.
As Rowena bids farewell to her role as PTA president, her legacy of community engagement and advocacy for parent involvement will continue to resonate throughout Ohlone Elementary. Her dedication is inspiring, an example of active participation and collaboration in shaping the educational journey of her children. In Rowena Chiu, Ohlone has found not just a leader, but a champion of community and parent involvement, enriching the lives of students and families alike.
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