After a period of inactivity, the Yelm High School Booster Club is set to make a comeback with a renewed commitment to supporting local students.
Kait Toompas, the new booster club president, said, despite having raised $20,000 annually, the club saw declining interest in the past.
“It sounds like there wasn’t enough participation,” Toompas said. “This was disheartening considering the significant benefits the club has been bringing to the school community.”
Toompas was actively involved in high school booster clubs at her children’s previous schools and recognized the impact of parent involvement on academic performance, attendance and student overall well-being.
“I want all students to succeed, and I saw the need for a way to organize parents,” she said.
Toompas has named the booster club “YHS Connects,” reflecting the club’s aim to foster connections within the community. Its primary goal is to support existing school programs, as many of these programs require chaperones and additional assistance. The club also plans to promote events that unite students, parents and the community.
“Our students at the high school level will soon be graduating, and we need additional resources beyond what the district provides,” Toompas said. “Education is one of my top priorities as a parent, and while we still have little ones at home, this is a great way for parents to be involved.”
Since the club’s restart, the community has been interested in its revival, Toompas said.
“I have heard great feedback,” she said. “Everyone seems upbeat and positive about it.”
The club actively recruits volunteers and encourages anyone in the community to join, whether or not they have a student at the school. All adults must undergo a background check, as mandated by the school district, to ensure a safe and secure environment.
To get involved in the Yelm high school booster club, interested people can reach out via email at YHSconnects@gmail.com or find the group on Facebook under “YHS Connects.”
The booster club’s first meeting is scheduled for Sept. 6, with the location yet to be confirmed. Parents, students and community members will have the opportunity to come together, share ideas and contribute to the club’s initiatives.
As the Yelm High School Booster Club gears up for its revival, members are also looking for community partners to collaborate on events and fundraising activities.
The board members leading the Yelm Booster Club are Toompas as president, Allyn Verbal as secretary and Alicia Hardt as treasurer.
