This year we're going to send out our Newsletter with a pencil tied with an apple ribbon. Here's a poem that goes with it:
Here's a pencil from your PTSO
Because we want you to read this Newsletter, you know Then, you'll know what's going on in school And in no way will you look like a fool After you read it Happy you'll be and you will want to volunteer with me. I also think it's cool when PTSO newsletters include trivia, student artwork or jokes,...
Our PTSO Secretary does a great job on our group's newsletter and I believe she uses Publisher. There are many templates in Publisher that you can use as a guide. Get samples of newsletters you like to get ideas on how you want to lay yours out and look. We usually include articles on upcoming events, events that we already had and how it went, updates on ongoing fundraisers like boxtops for Education and funding factory. We got feedback from our end of the year parent surveys that asked us to start highlighting kids' achievements, special things kids do. For example, we had a second grade girl last year who approached us about collecting $ for the police dog in the community. Another girl read about homeless people being cold in the winter months and asked the PTSO to help her get people to donate blankets. So this year we plan to have more articles like that and are going to have teachers and parents involved in bringing more kid's activities to our attention.
One way was with a calender for the month with all the pertinent info plugged into the date sections. We made it about half the sheet, sometimes less so there was room to put in grade level news in little sections--and we always put something on the back--NEVER send something with a blank back, but make sure that you note on the bottom to read other side. We HATE to waste paper. If we were at a loss for something, the principal could always provide.
The other way was in brochure form.It was folded in thirds which gives you 6 columns for info.Plus the fact that it's folded & not a flat sheet of paper, it was more likely not to be overlooked when a parent checked the child's backpack. We also always used colored paper so it stood out.We'd gotten a deal on bright yellow paper, so nearly all PTO info went home on that paper.
We always make sure that the school webmaster gets a copy and she updates the PTO News section on the school's web page. We had the web address( along with school address & phone) printed on the cover of the brochure we did to give to parents at the first meet & greet for the year. We also have copies available on the counter in the office. Not a newsletter, per se, but it tells those new to the school pertinent info about the school. Promoting PTO, of course, and why YOU want to be a member.
Please HELP!!! I'm a new council chair.. I've never done a newsletter before.. What information do I put in the newsletter that will cover information on membership as well as info for all levels (elem-high) and in what type of format. does anyone out there have a template for a newsletter.
