We've been supporting the students and teachers of Zaharis Elementary for over two decades.
ZPTO is comprised of parent and staff volunteers who want students to have the best possible experience during their years at Zaharis.
Our PTO raises funds to support school and classroom needs, partners with local businesses, provides teacher support and appreciation, puts on several fun events throughout the year, and more!
We are a 501(c)3 organization. You can find our disclosures here.
Meet the 2023-2024 Board
Ashley Barras, President
Ashley has been a Zaharis parent for 4 years and is mama to Gavin (5h grade) and Westin (K1). She’s been peripherally involved in PTO for a while but decided this year it was time to take the plunge and lead the board!
Danae DeStories, Secretary
Danae is an Arizona native and loves to take her family on adventures all around the valley. She is currently a preschool teacher and was formerly an MPS 1st grade teacher. Bring a Mom to her two kids Paxtyn (Kindergarten) and Paisley (Pre-K) is truly what makes her the happiest. She can’t wait to join the PTO board as Secretary this school year!
Kayla Medak, Vice President
Kayla recently moved to Arizona in July of 2021 and is loving getting to explore this new state! She is a part time preschool teacher and a mom to two boys, Luke (5th grade) and Finn (kindergarten). She jumped into volunteer with ZPTO as soon as the 2021/2022 school year began and has loved every part of it. She did not hesitate to join the board as VP for the 2022/2023 school year and is excited to act as secretary this year. If she isn’t at the school volunteering you can find her shuttling and cheering on the boys from one sport to the next!
Christie Black, Treasurer
Christie has a background in accounting and works part-time as business manager for a nonprofit. She has two kids and a giant doodle. When she isn't chasing kids and dogs she loves to cook and read. Her family loves the literacy focus at Zaharis! There is nothing like a good book.
Kayla Moncur, Previous President
In a former life Kayla did digital marketing for a boutique marketing agency and wrote for a Disney owned parenting blog. Now she’s mom to Wes (10th grade), Jones (8th grade), and Emmy (3rd grade). She’s been involved with ZPTO since 2017 and has been president twice with a stint as VP in-between. She is THRILLED to hand the reins over this year! She now works in the admin office at Mountain View with Mr. Oliver and Mrs. Lang!
She’s an avid reader and loves to hike and take naps.