At LFHS, the Association of Parents and Teachers (APT) plays a crucial role in creating a supportive and functional environment for all students, parents, and staff. However, most students don’t even know who they are or what they do. 

The APT is a group that should be well familiarized around the school as they put on majority of the events but surpisingly is not.

When senior Ryan Valentincic was asked if he knew who the APT were, he had no idea. “The APT? Are you referring to the abbreviation for appointment?” said Valentincic. 

Kristen Lee, Director of the APT, says the organization is dedicated to facilitating a cooperative partnership between parents, teachers, and staff. “Our mission is to strengthen the LFHS community through volunteer service,” she said. 

This collaboration has resulted in countless benefits for the entire community such as  Assistance and Support for Teachers, Enrichment and Service for Students, and Opportunities for Parent Involvement.

One event that all of LFHS is familiar with is the infamous talent show. Although, not many people fully understand the support and assistance the APT gives to the production of the talent show. 

Talent Show Director Corey Homler describes talent show as a “community event,” the talent show draws massive amounts of support. “We sell out all three nights and bring in 1,800 people. It’s amazing,” Homler said. “Without the APT, we wouldn’t have that publicity or the size of the show.”

The Talent Show is a collaboration that extends beyond the stage. Homler emphasizes that the APT is at the core of its success, providing help with logistics and promotion. 

“APT parents help with food, planning, decorations, getting volunteers, advertising, and working the night of the event,” he said. “This is technically the APT Talent Show. Without them, there wouldn’t be a talent show.”

The APT also provides several other programs throughout the year that the LFHS community benefits from. Some of the initiatives include:

• Chill Scout – Special events for students that support health and wellness
• Open Doors – Career Development opportunities for students
• EKG Testing – Promoting student’s heart health
• Prom – Working with student council to plan a fun and safe event
• Student Grants – Making educational opportunities more affordable for all students
• New Family Welcome – Helping families who are new to the district feel at home
• Hospitality – Coordinating meals, treats, and other expressions of gratitude and support for the teachers
• Be True To Your School – An annual fundraiser to support students’ class treasuries
• Directory – Collect and publish family contact information so parents and students can get in touch with each other

The APT’s success depends a lot on the dedication of its volunteers. Director Lee invites parents and community members to join the effort. “If you’d like to help us strengthen the LFHS community, there are many ways to get involved,” she said.

Through all of the work done by the APT, the group continues to represent its mission of partnership and support within the school community. The APT remains a key role of the LFHS experience, ensuring that every student has the opportunity to thrive in LFHS environment.