The overarching mission of ODA's Parent Volunteer and Auxiliary Groups is to actively support, promote, and strengthen the ODA school community in the areas of academics, the arts, and athletics. Parent volunteers are responsible for "putting the cherry on the top" of an already great ODA experience. Volunteer today!

Parent Association

The mission of the Parent Association (PA)  is to promote and strengthen community among ODA educators, students, and families. The PA organizes programs/activities that enrich the student experience, support educators, and help families connect with one another. All ODA parents/guardians are members of the PA and encouraged to get involved.

A subset of the Parent Association, the Room Parents, support educators through classroom and grade level activities, soliciting volunteers to help within the classroom, and acting as ODA Fund Ambassadors

Signature events include Winter and Spring Community Luncheons, and Thunder Fun Day.

 
 
ODA TFD Viking mascot

Thunder Fun Day

Hosted by the Parent Association
Saturday, January 31, 11:00 am–3:00 pm
Historic Siesta Key Campus

Thunder Fun Day returns with favorite attractions, including pony rides, the snow slide, and bounce houses, as well as exciting additions such as a Sweet & Savory Bake-Off, petting zoo, rock climbing wall, and bungee trampoline jump. This beloved event offers fun for the whole family!
 
Every ticket purchased directly supports students and educators through Parent Association-sponsored programs. Click here for tickets and sponsorship information.

 
 
 

Thunder Athletic Club

The mission of the Thunder Athletic Club (TAC) is to foster a positive environment for all ODA student-athletes, coaches, and parents. TAC partners with the athletics department to enhance the overall athletic experience by encouraging school spirit, increasing attendance at events, and supporting the needs of athletic programs.

 

Signature events include the Golf Tournament, Taste of ODA 5K & Kids Fun Run, and Thunder ESPY Awards.

ODA 5K Viking mascot

ODA 5K & Kids Fun Run

Hosted by the Thunder Athletic Club
Saturday, January 24, 8:00 am
Uihlein Campus, Lakewood Ranch

This family-friendly event features a scenic 5K around campus, beginning at 8:00 am and open to all ages. Children 10 and under are eligible to participate in the Kids Fun Run, a 0.5-mile course, or the Kids Dash, a 200-meter course.

All proceeds benefit the Thunder Athletic Club, supporting athletic programs and opportunities for our students. Families are invited to participate as runners, volunteers, or sponsors. Click here for more information.

 

Arts Alliance

The mission of the Arts Alliance is to support the students, educators, and families of ODA’s visual and performing arts programs in their goal to achieve the highest standards of arts education and performance. The Arts Alliance also aims to promote the place and value of the arts in the community, and highlight the significant role the visual and performing arts play in the lives of our students.

 

Signature events include the Thunderpalooza Talent Showcase.

 
 

 

Get involved today

Volunteers serve as board members, in-classroom volunteers, and day-of-event staff. All Out-of-Door parents are already  members of the volunteer groups and are encouraged to volunteer as frequently as possible!

Click here to Get Involved

Parent Auxiliary Groups

Board Member Nomination Process

Individuals selected to serve on the Board of the Parent Volunteer groups or as Room Parents start as day-of-event volunteers. Throughout the year, educators and administrators take note of individuals who volunteer on campus and put forth recommendations to the Executive Leadership of the Volunteer Groups. Terms are renewable each year. Each group's leadership determines which spots are available and discusses the most suitable candidates for those roles based on student grade levels, past and current volunteer engagement, and availability for meetings and event execution. 

Ways to Volunteer

Become a Classroom Champion: Lower School Room Parent

Volunteer as a Lower School Room Parent and make a meaningful impact in our classrooms! In this role, you'll facilitate communication between teachers and families, coordinate classroom activities, and rally volunteers for various projects. Your support is vital to creating a vibrant learning environment for our students. Join us and help foster a sense of community and collaboration!

Cultivate Growth: Lower School on Clark Road Garden Parent

Join us in nurturing our Clark Road Campus as a Garden Parent! This volunteer opportunity allows you to get hands-on with our students while teaching them about gardening and sustainability. Whether you have a green thumb or just a love for the outdoors, your time and energy will help cultivate not only plants but also a passion for nature in our young learners.

Transform Spaces: Volunteer for Campus Decorating

Unleash your creativity by volunteering to decorate our campus! Help us create inviting spaces for students and families throughout the year by bringing festive and inspiring decorations to life. Your artistic contributions will enhance our school’s environment and make every occasion special. Join our decorating team and let your creativity shine!

Celebrate and Connect: Volunteer for Classroom Celebrations

Get involved by volunteering for classroom celebrations! Your support is essential in organizing activities that bring joy to our students, whether it's planning birthday parties or seasonal festivities. Help create unforgettable moments that foster friendships and celebrate our young learners’ achievements. Join us in making these celebrations truly special!

Give Thanks: Volunteer for Thanksgiving Donation Drives

Help us spread warmth and generosity this Thanksgiving by volunteering for our donation drive! Assist in collecting food and essential items to support families in need within our community. Your efforts will show our students the power of giving back and instill a sense of gratitude. Join us in making a difference this holiday season!

Celebrate School Year Milestones: Volunteer for the 100th Day Celebration

Celebrate a significant milestone in our students' education by volunteering for the 100th Day Celebration! Help coordinate fun activities and events that highlight this special day. Your participation will ensure a memorable experience that reinforces the value of perseverance and learning. Join us in making this celebration a day to remember!

Bridge Generations: Volunteer for Grandfriends Day

Join us in creating heartwarming connections during Grandfriends Day by volunteering your time! Help organize activities that bring students and their grandparents or special friends together for a day of fun and bonding. Your involvement will enhance this special event, creating lasting memories for everyone involved. Sign up today to make a difference!

Lights, Camera, Action: Volunteer for Theater Productions

Get involved in our theater productions by volunteering your time and talents! Your support will enable our students to shine on stage. Join us in fostering creativity and confidence as our students showcase their talents in these exciting performances!

Celebrate the Arts: Volunteer for the Festival of the Arts

Join us in celebrating creativity at the Festival of the Arts by volunteering! Help set up, organize, or support students as they display their artistic talents. Your time and effort will play a crucial role in making this event a success and will inspire our young artists to express themselves and share their work with the community!

Support Thunder Nation Athletics: Volunteer Today!

Get in on the excitement by volunteering for our school events like the Golf Tournament, and ODA 5K! Your help is vital in planning and executing these community gatherings, which not only provide fun but also raise essential funds for our school programs. Join our team and help create memorable experiences for everyone involved!

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