60 for 60 De La Salle’s Parent Association: Building Community, One Generation at a Time 

Since 1966, the De La Salle Parent Association has been at the heart of the Spartan community quietly, faithfully, and joyfully shaping the student experience in ways that have echoed across nearly six decades.

What began as a small group of dedicated parents raising funds for student needs quickly evolved into a cornerstone of community-building at De La Salle. Their very first gift to students set the tone for the tradition of impact that followed: purchasing broadcast equipment so DLS could begin teaching media and journalism. That moment sparked the creation of KDLS, the school’s broadcast club, which continues through the Content Club to this day.

Through the years, the Parent Association fueled the life of the school with unforgettable traditions:

• Mardi Gras costume parties in the early days
• Fall Fest, a beloved community celebration that spanned decades
• The Crab Dinner, launched in 1972 and still going strong today
• Casino Night in the 80s
• Tuesday Bingo Nights in the 90s
• The famous DLS 200, where families bought raffle tickets for the chance to win a new car
• Senior Send-Off Celebration

And starting in 1984, the Parent Association became the driving force behind the annual school auction, an event that remains one of De La Salle’s most successful and cherished fundraisers.

Their work has always stretched beyond events and fundraising. From supporting dances and athletic games to providing the welcoming warmth behind Back to School Night, Family Liturgies, and the Welcome BBQ, the Parent Association has been a steady, uplifting presence for every Spartan family.

Today, their mission continues through acts both big and small—but always meaningful. Parent Association President Michelle Anderson described it beautifully when she shared, “It strives to build community by encouraging parents and families to get involved, to be role models, to give back to the community that they value. It also builds strong relationships between the parents here at De La Salle and gives them an opportunity to socialize and feel part of it, which is important.”

One of the most beloved examples of their impact happens quietly each semester during finals. Michelle shared how parents provide snacks and treats to make sure students feel supported during a stressful week. “The kids get so excited. And we let them know these are all from your moms and dads. They want to make sure you’re ready to go for finals. Those are the little things that go a long way.”

The Parent Association extends that same spirit of care to educators, providing Thanksgiving pies and early-year treats to show appreciation for faculty and staff.

Parent Association member Noel Hughes echoes the value of connection that comes from being involved. “You, as a parent, get to participate in a high school environment and get to know the teachers and administration. And you get to spend time with your kids. By getting to know the community, you feel like you’re part of something; it’s truly an extended family.”

From raising essential funds, to building joyous traditions, to fostering the sense of belonging that defines the De La Salle experience, the Parent Association has been, and continues to be, a powerful thread woven through the story of the school.

For sixty years, they have shown what it means to love, support, and lift up a community. And for that, De La Salle’s whole community is deeply grateful.