
Parents Association
At PS 87, every parent is automatically part of the Parents Association—no dues required! The PA helps our school thrive by funding important programs, organizing volunteers, and sharing school news.
We partner closely with the administration to enrich every child’s learning experience, while advocating for high-quality public education and a welcoming school community.
What We Do At a Glance
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Host 30+ school-wide events each year
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Fund and support multiple enrichment programs across all grades
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Provide several teacher trainings annually to support professional growth
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Fund essential classroom materials, technology, and equipment
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Support families through morning meet-ups, Gather & Grow continued learning series, and participation in District 3 events.

Get Involved
Join our monthly PA General Meetings to stay informed and share your thoughts.
Run for officer or committee chair roles in the spring elections.
Volunteer!

Support Our School
The PA raises funds to cover what the Department of Education doesn’t, like playground improvements, classroom assistants, professional development, and enrichment programs. Your donations—big or small—make a real difference. Watch for our Family Giving campaigns and special events like the Harvest Festival and Auction. Thank you for supporting PS 87!
Upcoming Meeting Dates
General Parents Association Meetings
2025
September 26 @ 8:30am
October 23 @ 7:00pm
November 21 @ 8:30am
December 18 @ 7:00pm
2026
January 16 @ 8:30am
February 12 @ 7:00pm
March 27 @ 8:30am
April 23 @ 7:00pm
May 15 @ 8:30am
June 11 @ 6:00pm
All parents are welcome. Meetings alternate between in-person (mornings) and Zoom (evenings). Zoom links are in the newsletter on ParentSquare.
SLT Committee
2025
November 17 4:30-5:30pm
December 15 4:30-5:30pm
2026
January 12 4:30-5:30pm
February 9 4:30-5:30pm
March 16 4:30-5:30pm
April 13 4:30-5:30pm
May 18 4:30-5:30pm
June 15 4:30-5:30pm
Dual Language
Meeting dates coming soon.
Meet the Executive Board

Co-President
Swati Vauthrin
Hi there! My name is Swati Vauthrin. I’m a mother of 3, an active PS 87 community member, an Engineering leader in Tech (doing my own startup). My oldest is a PS 87 alumni, my middle will be entering 3rd, and our youngest will be entering pre-K! I've been a class parent as well as former PA secretary and former K Rep at PS87 since 2020. A little about me is that I’m a cook and lover of food, a fashion enthusiast, a sports fan, a fitness practitioner, and an avid traveler. I’m also a mentor for rising Women in STEM. Really looking forward to partnering with you all and this community!

Co-President
Linda Ng
My name is Linda Ng and I have two children - Willa, a 4th grader, and Emery, an 8th grader and PS 87 graduate. This will be my second year on the PA as Co-President. I’ve also been a class parent for several years, was Co-VP of Communications and have volunteered at many of the events during our 8 years so far at PS 87. I work as a veterinarian and data analyst in public health and have lived on the UWS for the past 11 years. I look forward to supporting the school and the community!
VP of Administration
Audrey Semel
I have been a member of the PS 87 community for six years now - our oldest daughter Ruby is moving on to middle school, and our youngest, Josephine, will be entering 3rd grade. And with more than 20 years of experience serving mission-driven organizations, I would welcome the opportunity to bring my organizational skills, collaborative approach, and commitment to community building to the PA Board.I recently completed a second master's degree at Columbia University, where I studied nonprofit management and learned how to "Be Better @ Doing Good." My academic background also includes a master's degree in Animal Behavior and Conservation from Hunter College, giving me both analytical and people-centered perspectives on problem-solving and leadership.Across various professional and volunteer experiences, I have worked in leadership, communications, engagement, and education roles, building connections among diverse stakeholders, managing projects, and helping translate complex issues into clear and actionable information. As a PS 87 parent, I am eager to support the PA's work and help strengthen our school community through thoughtful organization, effective communication, and partnership.
VP of Community Affairs
Brendon Kinney
I have lived on the Upper West Side for the past 10 years and been a parent at PS 87 for the past 3 years. I currently have a son in 2nd grade and a daughter in Pre-K. Throughout that time I've become increasingly involved in the PS 87 community, culminating in my role as the overall event coordinator for Harvest Fest 2025. I've also been actively involved in the broader UWS community and have served as the president of my co-op board for the past 5 years. The VP of Community Affairs position aligns with my personal interests and skills, and I believe I can serve the school community well in this capacity. Thank you for your consideration!

VP of Enrichment
Sabrina Blum
Hi, I’m Sabrina Blum. My son Noah is in the 4th grade, and my daughters Calla and Dalia (now in 7th grade at Booker T and 10th grade at Hunter) are both proud PS 87 graduates. I’ve been part of this wonderful school since 2016 and have had children go through every grade here, from Pre-K to 5th. I’ve served as class parent numerous times, as Kindergarten Rep in 2022-23, and as the Chair of Broadway Night since the fundraiser was revived post-Covid. I’m passionate about the arts and arts education, and that is why, in addition to chairing Broadway Night, I’m very excited to continue on in my role as VP of Enrichment for my fourth year. I am originally from Southern California, but my husband Eli and I have lived in NYC for over 20 years. I work part-time for the NYU Admissions Office, reviewing undergraduate applications, and in my free time, I enjoy taking dance classes and “New Yorking” around with friends and family.

Co-VP of Communications
Emma Gardner
Hi! My name is Emma Gardner and I have two children at PS 87 — Priya, a 1st grader, and Jaya, a 4th grader. I’ve loved getting involved in the school community over the past few years, serving as class parent several times, co-leading décor for the school auction, and pitching in wherever help is needed. Being part of such a thoughtful and engaged community is one of the things that makes PS 87 so special. Originally from Atlanta, I’ve lived in New York City for more than 20 years (!!!), and it truly feels like home. Outside of school, I work as a marketing and communications consultant for several major brands. I also volunteer with the Asylum Support Clinic, coach my daughter’s WSSL team, and enjoy staying active — whether that’s working out or exploring our amazing Upper West Side neighborhood on foot. I’m so grateful to be part of the PS 87 community.

Co-VP of Communications
Erica Sammartino
My name is Erica Sammartino and I have one child at PS 87, Parker, who is in 4th grade. This is my second year serving as Co-VP of Communications for the PA. I’ve loved getting involved in the school community and helping support the events and programs that make PS 87 so special. I have volunteered for Harvest Fest & Spring Fair, served as class parent, ran lead on my class's auction art project, organized food & beverage for the auction as well as helping update the school website. and I’m excited to support the school and help strengthen communication within our wonderful PS 87 community.

VP of Culture and Community
Katie Baker
My name is Katie Baker and I have two boys at PS 87, a 5th grader and a 3rd grader. I have served on the PA Board as the Co-President for 2 years and on the School Leadership Team (SLT) for 3 years. In addition, I have been a class parent for several years and a constant volunteer at school events. I am passionate about cultivating inclusive school communities and thrilled to be in my second year serving as VP of Culture & Community. Professionally I work as a Behavior Analyst running an educational and behavioral consulting agency that works with a variety of public and independent schools in the tri-state area. In our free time you’ll find our family “adventuring” all over the city or playing a plethora of sports!

Co-Secretary
Alicia AuCoin
Hi, I’m Alicia. My son, Lex, is currently in fourth grade. This will be my third year serving as Recording Secretary, and I’ve truly enjoyed being involved with the PA and supporting events like the Spring Fair. I deeply appreciate this amazing community and love being a part of it. I look forward to continuing to support our school and the families that make PS87 such a special place.

Co-Secretary
Katie McGuinn
I have been an active member of the PS 87 community since 2016, with a family deeply rooted in the school. I am the proud parent of a 4th grader and a 5th grader currently at PS 87, and also a 9th grader who is a proud graduate of both PS 87 and Booker T. Professionally, Katie is a physician at NYP-Weill Cornell, where her expertise in logic and problem-solving gleaned from the DOE application process is put to good use. Her passion for children, combined with her love of parties and a flair for themes, makes her uniquely suited for the role. She is excited to bring her skills to the 5th Grade, helping to be part of the team planning a fabulous capstone year and ensuring a smooth, thriving transition to middle school for all students.

Co-Treasurer
Stephanie Nassimi
My name is Stephanie Nassimi and I have a 2nd grader and 5th grader at PS 87. This is my third year on the PA board and second year as Co-Treasurer. In addition to volunteering at the school, I also work full time as an accountant at a large investment bank. My family is looking forward to another wonderful year at PS87!

Co-Treasurer
Brandon Greenburg
Hi, I'm Brandon Greenburg! My wife Holly and I have three kids — an 8-year-old entering 3rd grade, a 6-year-old entering 1st grade, and a 4-year-old. Originally from Atlanta, I've called the Upper West Side home since 2014. This is my second year on the PA board, having served as interim Co-Treasurer this past year.

Family Giving Officer
Melody Solowsky
I am Melody Solowsky, mom to a rising third grader. I was born and raised in NY, graduating from NYU. I moved to the UWS 12 years ago, and knowing about the school’s well-deserved reputation, I was very pleased that my daughter was able to attend PS 87. We had wonderful teachers the past three years. I have enjoyed getting to know so many parents the last three years, along with working the Face Painting booth at Harvest Fest and Spring Fair. I work in administration at a large NYC-based financial institution, but much of my free time is spent with my daughter in the PS 87 playground. I look forward to helping PS 87 with continued success.

VP of Fundraising
Jenny Chamoun
I am the proud parent of a third grader at the school and am excited for the opportunity to serve as Vice President of Fundraising. For the past 20 years, I have owned and continue to operate two successful local businesses in our neighborhood, giving me deep roots in the community and strong relationships with fellow business owners, families, and community leaders. Through running these businesses, I have developed extensive experience in budgeting, marketing, event planning, relationship-building, and community outreach, skills that are directly applicable to successful fundraising. As both a parent and business owner, I understand the importance of ensuring our school has the resources needed to provide exceptional programs, activities, and opportunities for our children. I am committed to helping maintain and grow the fundraising efforts that support these experiences and am eager to leverage my community connections and business experience to strengthen support for the school. I look forward to working collaboratively with parents, teachers, staff, and local businesses to help our school continue to thrive.

Family Engagement Coordinator
Caroline Wachtler
Hi, my name is Caroline Wachtler. My daughter Annabelle is in third grade and my son George is in kindergarten. I’ve been lucky to serve as a class parent, help with the book fair in the fall and used book sale in the spring, and I work in the library weekly. I’m also a current member of the PS 87 SLT. Professionally, I partner with district and charter school leaders to measure and improve school instructional culture and have had the privilege of working in and supporting public education for 15+ years. I’ve been so happy with Annabelle’s experience at 87 and we have felt incredibly welcomed by the community. I would love the opportunity to serve on the PA as the family engagement officer.

Teacher Liaison
Leah Schiff
My name is Leah Schiff and I’m the mom of Harlow who is a 2nd grader at the school and Dylan who is in 7th grade and a PS 87 alum. This is my 7th year as a PS 87 parent and I’m excited to jspend another year in the role of Teacher Liaison. I have been a class parent for both of my kids and I feel like I have gotten to know many of the teachers at the school. I have volunteered for various PS 87 events and I’m looking forward to this role so that I can support the teachers who are so important in our kids’ lives. I love this school and the UWS community. I’m also the co division head of G7 soccer through WSSL.

Auction Co-Chair
Cristina Garza
Cristina Garza has spent her career dedicated to the development, packaging and sales of independent cinema and television. She currently works as an Agent at the prestigious entertainment and sports agency, United Talent Agency. Before her work at UTA she served as SVP of TV Development and Production at Fifth Season (Severance, Nine Perfect Strangers) where she drove the development of the company's film and premium TV content. She has been an agent in Media Finance at Creative Artists Agency (CAA) and ran sales and distribution for CANANA, the Mexico City-based production and distribution company founded by Gael Garcia Bernal and Diego Luna. In 2022, she was recognized with the "Influential Latinos in Media" honor by the Imagen Foundation for her contributions to the entertainment industry. Cristina graduated from New York University with a degree in Economics. She is a fifth generation Latina from Houston, Texas and now lives in New York City with her three children.

Co-Fifth Grade Rep
Amy Lin
My name is Amy Lin and I have a 3rd grader and 5th grader at PS 87. I am new to the position of 5th Grade Rep but I previously served three years on the PA board as VP Admin. I have also been a class parent, co-chair of the school Book Fair, and helped out on the auction team. I have previous experience in the healthcare and education worlds, working as a high school science teacher prior to becoming a clinical dietitian. My husband and I have been on the UWS for over 15 years. We love raising our kids here and the PS 87 community!
Sandra Maldonado
Dual Language Rep
Hi! I’m Sandra Maldonado, and I’m so happy to be part of the PS 87 community. I was born and raised in Mexico City and have called NYC home for the past 11 years. My family joined PS 87 in 2019 through the Dual Language Program. I’m a proud mom of a 4th grader and a 7th grader who is now an alum. Since 2023, I’ve been serving as a Dual Language Co-chair, and I’m excited to step into the role of DL Representative this year. Before moving to New York, I worked in PR and Corporate Communications for international companies. Being part of PS 87 has been such a joy, and I look forward to helping our community grow even stronger.
Rebecca Greif
Kindergarten Co-Rep
Hi! My name is Rebecca Greif. Next year, I have two daughters at PS87 - Samantha in fourth grade and Naomi in kindergarten. The PS87 community is very special and I have loved being a part of it for the past four years. I'm really excited to serve as a kindergarten representative and to welcome this new class of families to our school!
Erica Horton
Kindergarten Co-Rep
Hi there! I’m Erica Horton, and I’m excited to serve as the Co-Kindergarten Rep for PS 87 this year! I have two children: Charlie is a 4th grader, and Chelsea who is in Kindergarten. Professionally, I work as a Professional Development and Talent leader, and I’ve lived in New York City for nearly 20 years, including the last 12 years on the Upper West Side. My husband, Jed Lewin, is a lifelong Manhattan resident, and we feel incredibly fortunate to be part of the PS 87 community. I’m especially excited to be a resource for families who are new to the school and to help bring our Kindergarten community together. When my son started Kindergarten at PS 87, I experienced firsthand how welcoming and supportive the parent community could be, and it made a meaningful difference for our family.

