Family Engagement Team

The Family Engagement Team is a sub-committee of the School Site Council. The team consists of parent, faculty and community partner membership and meets monthly. It was established eight years ago with the goal of strengthening and deepening family engagement across the Mendell School community. Read below to learn more about who we are and what we do!

Our Vision

The Family Engagement Team is committed to ensuring that all Mendell families feel welcome and find meaningful ways to participate in our school community. We seek to strengthen the connection between home and school so that students achieve at high levels and develop respect for human differences. We celebrate the rich diversity of our school community and implement thoughtful practices to reach, engage and empower all families.

The Family Engagement Team works to ensure that our vision of inclusivity permeates every aspect of our school community.

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Our Membership

  • Liana Kefalis: Learning Specialist and Co-facilitator

  • Deniere Watford-Jackson: Family Liaison and Co-facilitator

  • Julia Bott: Principal

  • Abby Hart: 3rd Grade Teacher

  • Yvonne Steadman: K2 Teacher

  • Jamal Bond: Physical Education Teacher


  • Sarah Hurdelbrink: 5th Grade Teacher

  • Maddy Faiz: Learning Specialist

  • Taylor Herring: City Connects Coordinator

  • Amy Light: Parent


Our Action Plan

Every year our team develops a strategic plan aligned to our school priorities and goals. We are particularly focused on supporting our school to build a more inclusive and equitable community for ALL families, including families who have less access or opportunity in our community currently. Read below to learn more about the work we are doing!

FET Resources