The mission of Purdy Elementary PTA is to help students realize their full potential by engaging and empowering families through organizing volunteer and financial support for school programs and activities that enhance the educational opportunities of Purdy’s students, staff and community. Purdy PTA is an advocate for all students attending Purdy Elementary and Peninsula Public Schools.

2025-2026 PTA Board Members

Contact: purdyptaprez@gmail.com

President – Ron Cochran
Ron is the President for this academic year and has been a member of the Purdy community and a volunteer since 2021. Ron is on the Peninsula School District finance and audit committee and is a member of our volunteer WATCH D.O.G.S. community. In his professional life, he is a retired Federal Law Enforcement Officer with 27 years of service as a Law Enforcement Officer, working in both local and Federal Law Enforcement. Before his law enforcement career, Ron spent 7 years in the United States Army. In his free time, Ron enjoys spending time with his family, adventure motorcycling, and backpacking.

Vice President – Jennifer DiRosa
Jennifer is a mom of three PSD students, one of whom is currently attending Purdy Elementary. She has been a PTA member and the Popcorn Friday Volunteer Coordinator from 2021-2024, and has served on the PTA board since 2022. When Jennifer isn’t volunteering at Purdy Elementary, Harbor Ridge Middle School, or at Lost Star Tabletop Gaming Outfitter as a Lorcana league coordinator, she keeps herself busy with substitute teaching in PSD schools, and running her kids to their appointments and activities. She enjoys family time that includes playing card and board games, and watching movies.

Treasurer – Maria Beaudette
Maria is the Treasurer for this academic year and has been part of the Purdy community since 2019. This marks her fourth year on the PTA board. Maria has two daughters, with one currently enrolled at Purdy, who are in the 4th and 6th grades. In her professional life, she works full-time as the Director of Finance for a wealth management firm. Additionally, she contributes her time as a board member for Little Lambs Preschool at Agnus Dei Lutheran. Outside of her many responsibilities, Maria enjoys walking her dogs, camping in the picturesque Pacific Northwest, and painting with watercolor and gouache.

Secretary – Hillary Dawn
Hillary has volunteered with the Purdy PTA since 2021 when her family moved to Gig Harbor. This is her second year on the board. She is the proud mom of two Purdy kids: a son in 3rd grade and a daughter in 6th grade. Hillary juggles mom/PTA life with her career as a family law attorney, which is often easier said than done! She has also served as Treasurer of the Pierce County chapter of the Washington Women Lawyers for the past four years. Hillary is a huge sports fan and her unfortunate family is regularly subjected to her rants about the Mariners and Huskies. 

Member at Large – Julie Pero
Julie is a dynamic professional and dedicated mother with a multifaceted life. As the owner of a successful real estate company, she skillfully navigates the property market while balancing her responsibilities as a parent. Julie is the proud mother of two daughters who are currently in 5th and 6th grade. Outside of her professional and family life, she has a passion for horticulture, specializing in growing giant pumpkins, and enjoys managing a lively flock of chickens. Julie’s diverse interests and commitments reflect her vibrant and energetic approach to life.

Member at Large – Rachael Schultz
Rachael has a daughter in 5th grade and lives in Gig Harbor. Rachael loves to plan social events, listen to music, and currently works full time as a Public Defender for King County Department of Public Defense. She has worked in public defense since May 2009. She is a member of the Washington State Paralegal Association, Washington Association of Criminal Defense Lawyers, and National Association for Public Defense. She also completed a private investigator course at Green River Community College in 2014. Rachael is an active member in her Teamsters 117 union. She is a founding member of the Teamsters Womxn’s Committee for Local 117 as well as a member of the Joint Council 28 Teamster Women’s Caucus. In addition to her dedicated work in public defense, she is fluent in sign language.