In this time of crucial school funding shortages, the Pointer Association recently contributed an additional $42,000 to Point Loma High School needs, raising the 2011-12 school year total to nearly $300,000. The Pointer Association is a nonprofit organization whose sole purpose is to support Point Loma High School students, faculty and staff in an effort to fill the holes that exist due to the ongoing state, district and school budget crisis. Under our umbrella organization, about 20 athletic and arts booster clubs helped the Pointer Association contribute a total of almost $300,000 to Point Loma High School during the 2011-12 school year! The Pointer Association balances its contributions between “3 As,” (academics, arts and athletics). The $42,000 total, for example, was allocated to nearly 20 different departments and programs, based upon submitted requests which were approved after review and open-meeting discussion. These include a variety of academic departments throughout Point Loma High School, including direct financial support to science, English, history, world language, seminar and advanced placement programs. The funds will also support the visual arts, theater and instrumental music programs, as well as library needs and funds to support the nurse’s emergency defibrillator. Finally, funds were provided to support the JROTC program, a gym locker room attendant, and the speech and debate club. The Pointer Association could not have a positive impact on the educational experience of every student without the work of an extensive team of devoted volunteers. Their tireless efforts provide needed support annually, both in time and financial aspects.  The organization is also grateful for the support it receives from the wide network of PLHS alumni and the community at large. Pointer alumni can also register on our website to keep updated on school events and reunions, contact us to make donations or join our volunteer and booster groups. I invite you to visit us at www.pointlomahigh.com under “Pointer Association.” — Kevin O’Beirne is president of the Point Loma High School Pointer Association.