I also agree with the majority, however because it's for Christmas gifts, not for buying gifts. We DO spend PTO money at the end of the yeasr on appreciation gifts for all volunteers. We have about a $25,000 budget and we usually spend about $150 total on 6 board members and about 20 chairpeople. I think it's money well spent on showing these dedicated people that we appreciate their hard work.

I know this topic has been addressed in past issues of PTOTODAY magazine, and they actually have said that it IS a good thing to reward volunteers in some way, but in a very small way, in relation to your budget.

Tim, care to chime in on this thought??

Thank you so much for the advise. I WILL NOT be using PTO funds to purchase the gifts.

As for the comment made by Daddio044, I feel a little insulted by the tone of your response. Why is it so hard to believe that we only have 4 regular volunteers in our school? We are not the only school that has this problem. We do not have classroom helpers because no one wants to get involved. Several weeks ago, we sent information home to all parents and guardians regarding becoming homeroom parents and we got 1 response. The four of us work hard all year handling everything because no one else is willing to step forward.

A few years ago our board went out to dinner and had an ornament exchange and a few drinks. We all paid our own way, 'appreciated' each other and enjoyed an evening out - just ladies. This year - a new board and new school - the president had us over - couples this time- for a nice evening. Granted, I think she likes to entertain but again, she 'appreciated' us with food and drink and we had a nice evening out to enjoy. Techincally, I think you can spend the money but realistically it is better not to.

I agree, take them to lunch on your own expense or purchase a gift certificate or something. I also do not think that just the officers should get one. That to me is just a slap in the face to every other PTO memeber without a title.

Of course, the option is yours, but I wouldn't use the PTO funds for it.

Look at it from an outsider's view. If you weren't involved in PTO but bought $10 worth of raffle tickets, how would you feel when you learned that some of that money went to buy gifts for PTO officers? Personally, I'd be peeved. When people support PTO fundraisers and events, they do it because they want to support their school, not their PTO officers.

If you can't afford to pay for gifts out of your own pocket (and believe me, I'm with ya there!), how about a heartfelt handwritten note? Between a tchotchke and a personalized thank-you, I'd take the note. It would warm the heart and it doesn't have to be dusted or watered!

I agree, 3 parents volunteering is not a stretch either. We have 760 and it's always the same 5 parents that do every event.

consider lunch, potluck or even get a restaurant to donate a gift card for your meals. Even with that.... it should'nt be used for personal purposes unless it's budgeted in your budget for meeting expenses. I would have to look closely what's approvable expenses and what are not.

I would ask the staff to help. You do so much for the school and teachers, it would be nice to be reciprocated in return.

I know with on the Distric level, we are not permitted to use PTO funds for gifts for teachers or principals.

We can however have "Community Building" events.

good luck,
Diem