Children’s book author shows support for Palatine school’s PTA

When children’s book author and motivational speaker Randi Moxi heard about the financial plight of a parent-teacher organization in Palatine Township Elementary District 15, she decided to donate her time in a show of support.

Moxi, a Grayslake-area resident and author of “A Pittie Pool Party,” was the guest at a student assembly Friday at Gray M. Sanborn Elementary School in Palatine.

The assembly took place less than three weeks after the school PTA’s former treasurer was arrested on a charge of theft of more than $10,000. PTA leaders said the organization’s bank account that previously held nearly $13,000 only had $187 left when they contacted police in January.

When Moxi learned of the case from former PTA President Melanie Santostefano told, whose public relations firm works with the author, she volunteered to give an enrichment assembly at Sanborn and waive her fees.

“It’s not fair for kids to go without enrichment and fun and author visits and assemblies because someone made a poor choice,” said Moxi, whose book teaches children about bullying and discrimination through the story of a rescued pit bull.

Moxi said she is contacting author friends to help out as well.

Moxi also signed books, accompanied by Jem, a stuffed dog from Shelter Pawz, which supports animal rescues. Moxi has been donating proceeds of her book’s sales to pit bull rescues.

Santostefano said she had only recently begun working with Moxi when they discussed the financial difficulties of the PTA, which has been fundraising to recover from its losses.

“I liked what she was promoting about accepting other kids, being inclusive. I loved her message,” Santostefano said.

“And she was more than happy to accommodate,” she added.