OUR MISSION
We’re the VME PTO—a team of dedicated volunteers made up of passionate parents, dedicated teachers and a love for our school community. As a certified nonprofit 501(c)(3), our mission is to enhance and support the educational experience at Veterans Memorial Elementary, while building a strong bridge between home and school.
We believe in the power of community and we’re here to:
-
Encouraging parent involvement in meaningful, doable ways
-
Providing volunteer support where it’s needed most
-
Raising funds that directly benefit the greatest number of students
-
Partnering with staff to make big ideas happen—from courtyard makeovers to classroom wish lists
Whether it’s organizing events, upgrading spaces, or simply showing up—we’re here to make a difference, together.
OUR VALUES
Connection
We believe magic happens when families and educators work together.
Inclusion
All voices matter. All families belong. Everyone has something to give! Whether it’s time, talents, or ideas.
Enrichment
We go beyond the basics to create fun, memorable, and meaningful experiences for our students.
Transparency
We’re an open book! Clear communication, shared decisions, and keeping everyone in the loop is how we roll.
Purpose Over Perfection
We’re not aiming for Pinterest-perfect. We’re here to make a real difference, with heart and intention behind every fundraiser, event, and initiative.
Nicole Geraghty
President
Hi everyone! I’m Nicole, and I’m excited to step into the role of PTO President this year. I’ve been an active member of the PTO for going on 8 years, most recently serving as Co-VP. My son is heading into 7th grade, and my daughter will be starting 2nd, so we’ve been a part of this amazing school community for quite some time.
I’m really looking forward to working alongside the incredible group of ladies on our board, and especially excited to welcome new families into the PTO. We want this to be a group where people feel encouraged to join in, lend a hand, and enjoy being involved.
Here’s to a great year ahead!
Elina Wolf
Vice-President
Hi! I'm Elina.
I’m looking forward to continue serving on the VME PTO Board in my third year as Vice President.
In my role, I help plan school events, coordinate fundraising efforts, and advocate for the needs of students and teachers. I’m a proud parent to a first grader and fourth grader at VME.
I enjoy spending time with family and friends, playing tennis, and traveling. I’m so excited about another amazing year making special memories and building strong connections within our school community!
Caitlin Whittington
Secretary
Hi! I'm Caitlin. I moved to Naples in 2011 with my husband to begin my graduate internship with CCPS. After that, I accepted a position as a school psychologist with the district and worked for four years until my first daughter was born. I’m now a stay-at-home mom with three children, two of whom attend VME.
When I’m not driving the kids to and from activities, I love spending time with family and friends, volunteering at my church and my youngest’s preschool, and getting crafty. This is my third year on the VME PTO Board and my fourth year volunteering with the PTO. I’m so grateful for the opportunity to support the students and teachers at VME and truly thankful for the friendships and connections I’ve made along the way.
OUR PTO BOARD
Hayden Kobert
Treasurer
Hi! I’m Hayden. I am in my second year serving as Co-Treasurer, and third year volunteering with the PTO. My role on the PTO Board includes planning and executing events, coordinating fundraising efforts, and promoting family and business partnerships. As a parent of two at VME, I am passionate about creating a positive and enriching learning environment for all students at VME. Additionally, it is gratifying to reward and honor the teachers and staff for all they do on a daily basis for our children.
After having moved from Colorado in 2018, my husband and I love living in sunny southwest Florida. I have a daughter in first grade, and a son in second grade. When I am not volunteering with the PTO, I enjoy spending time with family and friends, playing pickleball, and traveling.
I encourage each of you to contribute to the efforts of the PTO by volunteering your time, donating to our non-profit organization, and attending our fun events! Looking forward to another wonderful year ahead!
Kelly McCann
Treasurer
Hi! I'm Kelly.
This is my fifth year on the VME PTO, and I’m excited to continue serving as Co-Treasurer. My husband Ryan and I have two daughters at VME. I'm passionate about supporting VME families, students, and staff, and I’m looking forward to another great year with the PTO.
Ilana Katz
Communications Chair
Hi! I’m Ilana, proud mom of two current VME students in Grades 1 and 4, and one recent graduate. This year, I’m stepping into a brand new role as the PTO’s Communications and Social Media Chair. I’m so excited to help keep our families connected, informed, and engaged throughout the year.
This is our 3rd year at VME after moving to Naples from Toronto, Canada. I love being part of the incredible VME community and enjoy finding creative ways to support our school.
When I’m not working as a Speech-Language Pathologist, collecting various hobbies, building websites for fun or chauffeuring my kids around, you’ll usually find me spending time with my family and dogs, watching musicals, or diving into something creative.
Stephanie Scalise
Staff Liason
Hi! My name is Stephanie Scalise, and I’m proud to serve as the PTO Teacher Liaison this year.
I graduated from Florida Gulf Coast University and was lucky enough to intern right here at Veterans Memorial Elementary. I was hired immediately after graduation and have been teaching at VME for the past 17 years. I currently teach third grade and love being a part of this amazing school community.
I also have two children—one entering fifth grade and one starting kindergarten—so VME is truly like a second home to our family. I’m excited to help strengthen the connection between our staff and families this year!