Calendar Updates, McGilvra Elementary Enrollment and More
Enroll, Support, or Learn More About McGilvra Elementary
McGilvra Elementary continues to shine as one of Madison Park’s most treasured community institutions with a welcoming culture and more than 100 years of educational excellence.
With new Seattle Public Schools leadership, more families outside the geo-zone can now choose McGilvra. Importantly the choice enrollment process will occur earlier this year to simplify planning for families. Families in the geo-zone should enroll now and those zoned to other schools who want to attend McGilvra are strongly encouraged to submit their choice applications by January 31st to secure a spot. Whether you're in the geo-zone or not, the McGilvra PTA is happy to arrange tours, answer questions, and to advocate for any prospective families.
The PTA is also starting its new Alumni & Booster Group, strengthening ties between past, present, and future wildcats. Prospective parents and alumni who sign up can receive a free McGilvra map placemat (see image above) - the perfect way for a future McGilvra Wildcat to learn their way around town. The map was created by local artist and McGilvra parent alum Annette Kraus.
The PTA is also seeking volunteers interested in tutoring K–2 students in reading through a simple, phonics-based program a couple of days per week. If you’re interested in volunteering, would like any help with enrollment, or have any other questions, reach out to outreach@mcgilvrapta.org!
By nature, schedules are made for changing. Right? So here are a few changes in the upcoming calendar for Friends of Madison Park:
BINGO NIGHT (January 22) is CANCELLED.
Due to scheduling conflicts, Pioneer Hall needs to cancel the previously scheduled Bingo Nights for the foreseeable future. We will loop back if we can find the space and volunteers to make it happen elsewhere.
NEIGHBORHOOD MEETINGS updates Schedule.
Meeting times will return to the hours of 7-8 p.m. at the Bathhouse. Our Tuesday night April meeting is moving from April 14 to April 21 because of schools’ Spring Break schedules and tax deadlines. Meetings this year are quarterly - April 21, July 14 and October 13.
Hoped for ST. PATRICK’S DAY FESTIVITIES are postponed to March 2027. EXCEPT McGilvra’s Restaurant will always celebrate St Patrick’s Day with music and specials. More details TBD.
WHAT TO LOOK FORWARD TO!
Little Beats has 2 more Music Concerts coming in February and March. First Saturdays of the month- from 11-12 at Pioneer Hall. At the bargain price of $5/person, come enjoy Highlight Quartet February 7 and Harmonica Pocket March 7! Doors open at 10:45.
Join Friends of Madison Park for a fun-filled Easter Egg Hunt on April 4th from 10:00 AM–12:00 PM at Madison Park Playground! Enjoy games, food, crafts, face painting, music, and a special visit from the Easter Bunny 🐰🌸. Egg hunting begins at 10:20 AM sharp—don’t be late!
HOW CAN YOU HELP????
Want to have a Neighborhood YARD SALE in May? We have the template of how to make it happen but need a handful of volunteers to pull it together. If you are interested, please reach out to volunteer@friendsofmadisonpark.com.
Know of a hidden gem garden to be included in the Garden Tour on June 13th? Want to be a volunteer for the Garden Tour and get free tickets? Please let us know at events@friendsofmadisonpark.com.
Planning is underway for the Music in the Park Series for August 2026. If you know a band that should apply, please have them go to our Music in the Park page. The application form will be posted this week. Deadline for applying is March 15th.
IN CASE YOU MISSED IT
Friends of Madison Park welcomes 3 new members to the Board- Meg Bartley, Suzy Benson and Nancy Beacham. Thanks to each of you for pitching in! FOMP’s Board also passed revisions to our Bylaws and presented its 2026 Budget at our Neighborhood Meeting. You can review our Budget and Bylaws - HERE.
We have posted the results of last summer’s Seattle Farmer’s Market Survey - HERE. The Farmer’s Market plans to return Saturdays starting June 6 through September.
3 simple ways to support Friends of Madison Park
Subscribe to our Newsletter on our HOME page HERE
Become a Monthly Donor of $10, $15, $25, $50 or $100/month. Donate HERE
Volunteer for one of our Events or Projects. Get involved HERE
