What is TJHSST PTSA?

The Thomas Jefferson High School for Science and Technology Parent, Teacher, and Student Association (TJHSST PTSA) is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organized under the authority of the Virginia Congress of Parents and Teachers (VA PTA), a branch of the National Congress of Parents and Teachers (National PTA). We adhere to the PTA values of collaboration, commitment, diversity, respect, and accountability to support TJ students’ educational success and their health and well-being.

 

Who We Are

Our PTSA is made up of hard-working parents who pool their talents to provide practical support for our school. Those listed below have volunteered to provide leadership this year.

 

2026-2027 Executive Committee (Officers)

  • President: Manisha Chhoda
  • VP of Communications: Thomas Stauber
  • VP of Programming & Events: Kokeb Kassa
  • Treasurer: Olivia Ma
  • VP of Membership & Fundraising: Yuping Schellhas 
  • Secretary: Raji Madhuvana

Our Committees

TJPTSA has five standing committees and two special committees. Each committee has one official chair and a few members. Chairs and members are appointed by the Executive Committee. The committee descriptions are below.

 

Standing Committees: 

Academic Support – Educating parents about how best support their students in navigating TJ academics. The Academic Support Committee fosters relationships with the TJ staff to build consensus for collaborative solutions through dialogue and engagement. Example activities include Navigating TJ Workshops, Coffees with Counselors, and AP Snacks.

 

All Night Grad Party – Planning and raising funds for an end-of-year, overnight party for seniors. Junior parents are strongly encouraged to apply so that senior parents can enjoy their student’s graduation! 

 

College Planning – Providing the TJ community with all relevant information regarding the college application process and available resources. The College Planning Committee covers topics such as college planning, preparation and the application process through virtual and in-person panel discussions with TJ alumni parents, alumni students, school counselors, and senior students.

 

Health and Wellness – Increasing awareness of health and emotional well-being within the TJ community. The committee works to engage the TJ parent community in efforts focusing on promoting student balance, resilience, and wellness. Main help is through PTSA website.

 

Hospitality – Organizing events to show TJ faculty and staff appreciation for their amazing efforts in educating and nurturing our children.

Special Committees:

Nominating Committee – A 5-member committee that is responsible for compiling and recommending a slate of TJ PTSA officer candidates for the next school year.

 

Parent Positive Ambassador/ Family Navigation model- the intent would be to explore a warm, light-touch parent-navigation structure that helps families feel more connected, informed, and welcomed throughout the TJ journey. Two Parent Positive Ambassadors per grade to help bridge families with PTSA and school-approved communication pathways, including helping build grade-level FAQs / a parent knowledge base and guiding families outreach to PTSA resources, membership, volunteer opportunities, event information, and answers to recurring parent questions.  This has one chair, vice chair, rest will be two committee members per grade.

 

Reflections – Oversees the planning and implementation of the Reflections art program for our TJ students. The Reflections program is a national arts program administered by the National PTA.