Hello NEST+m Families,

My name is Rosy Kehdi, mom to James, a rising 2nd grader, and I’m the new VP of Fundraising for Lower Grades for NEST+m for this upcoming year. Hi!

I know we’re just halfway through the summer, but the Parent Teacher Association (PTA) is already at work getting ready to have all resources in place to welcome our children in September. 

As a public school, NEST+m is unique – it’s the ONLY public school in NYC that goes from kindergarten to 12th grade and delivers an exceptional academic experience catering to some of the brightest kids from all boroughs. But, this comes with its own challenges where funding doesn’t cover all the needs of such a unique school and unique children.

That’s where the PTA comes in! Each year, we ask families to contribute a recommended donation of $1,800 for each student. 

I know this is not an insignificant amount to many many families, but these funds are crucial to help our kids thrive in their day to day. These funds will help cover several operational needs for the school and the classes – technology, enrichment programs, and other needs not covered by the DOE. 

But, most importantly, a large chunk of the donation goes to hiring TEACHER ASSISTANTS (TA) in every lower grade classroom – a rarity in public schools! I want to take a moment to spotlight how important this is.

Close your eyes – scratch that, keep your eyes open and keep reading please! – and picture 25-29 little kids in one classroom… 

TAs support teachers and children in different ways to get through the day as efficiently and smoothly as possible, including:

• • • Working with students in small groups in math, reading, and writing. 

    • Accompanying students to and from specialized classrooms.

    • Overseeing weekly breakfast/arrival duties starting at 7:45am.

    • Supervising students during lunch, transitions, and outdoor recess (year-round).

    • Helping with arrival and dismissal in the classroom.

    • Supporting kids when they need help settling into their work or gathering supplies.

    • …..amongst many other tasks and duties they undertake to help both students and teachers throughout the day.

The PTA is already in the process of interviewing and hiring TAs for September, and this is why we are hoping to have as many donations as possible early on in the year.

How to donate?

You can donate the full amount – or more if you’re feeling generous and able to do so – in one payment ($1800), or you can also donate via monthly installments ($150 per month over 12 months) if that fits your needs better. 

Please make your DONATION HERE.

Alternatively, if you prefer to send a check, please make it out to “NEST+m PTA” with your child’s name and grade.

Every dollar counts, so if you are not able to pay the full amount, we understand and encourage you to donate as much as you’re able to! We deeply value your continued generosity and participation!

If you have any questions or would like to discuss giving options, I’m happy to talk.

Thank you so much!
Rosy Kehdi
VP of Fundraising, Lower Grades