Why is the PTO necessary?

While public education in the United States is “free,” it cannot be sustained without families, teachers and members of the community committed to supporting the educational needs of students. Our educational system relies heavily on the support of parents and others through the community through volunteering as well as financial support. Without the PTO we would have far fewer books, supplies, and little curriculum support for teachers which covers many educational supplies that students use every day. Simply put, without the PTO our school would look and feel very different.

Why should I join?

Joining the PTO benefits your child. Research shows that students do better when their families are involved both at home and at school. Being active on the PTO is also a fantastic way to get to know teachers, staff, and other parents. Our events are funded annually, so your child will directly benefit from your support.

When you join, your funds go directly to classrooms to purchase items like tools and supplies, supplementary curriculum, and books. We funded $20,000 in grants for all classrooms and programs, and 700+ students last school year. Funds also go directly to school programs and fun family events like book fair, art docents, Watch Dogs, Roaring Readers, school dances, movie nights, carnival, 5th grade celebration, and popcorn Fridays. We are also beginning the process of upgrading our auditorium- stay tuned for more info on that.

Joining also gives you a voice and voting rights at membership meetings, and you are able to serve as committee chairs and on the PTO board.

I joined last year – do I need to join again?

Yes. All parents and staff need to renew their membership each year as we run our PTO programs on an annual basis.

Does joining mean I’m required to volunteer or attend meetings?

No. Joining does not obligate you to do anything more than being a member of the PTO. You are not required to donate, volunteer or attend PTO meetings but we always welcome your help, support, and input.

Volunteering with the PTO is a fantastic way to get to know teachers, staff and other parents. You can volunteer in many ways; it does not have to be during the day and in class. You can volunteer by making copies, doing work at home for teachers or helping with events in the evening, among other opportunities.

What if I’ve already joined PTSA at my other child’s school? Do I need to join twice?

Each school runs their school PTO/PTSA separately and independently of each other. So, it is helpful and important to join the PTO/PTSA at each school you have a child attending, thereby having a voice at each school.

What if the cost to join is outside my budget?

If joining the PTO is a financial burden, we can provide assistance. Please contact tescubsclub@gmail.com for assistance. All inquiries are kept confidential.

I already donated or plan to donate to the fundraiser – is this the same as joining PTO?

Thank you for your support. The yearly fundraisers are separate from membership dues and are the primary source of funding for all our programs each year. We ask that each family purchase a PTO membership as well as donate to the fundraiser as much as their resources allow.

More questions?

Please contact tescubsclub@gmail.com.