MamaLuv - Congratulations!!! Great start!
Mona Ward:
PTO's are independent units, so there' no one way they have to be defined. Typically they support the school through various activities. While fundraising is likely to play an important role, you don't want this to become the main focus. What you ACCOMPLISH with your programs and the funds raised should be the focus. I believe you will find this site invaluable.
I'm copying in an informal write up we used once to define our activities. (I think when we did the 501c3 application.) As I said, there's no single definition - this is just an example.
1. Coordinate volunteer participation to support school programs.
This includes matching volunteers to school needs such as: mentoring students, relieving teachers during one-on-one testing, staffing activities such as "Track and Field" and the school Book Fairs, and chaperoning field trips. This is an on-going activity by all members of the PTO, but specifically directed by the Volunteer Committee. It is the most important activity and accounts for 30% of the organization’s effort.
2. Host extra-curricular activities that support family involvement.
These will include activities such as "Breakfast with Santa", reading seminars, Family Skate Night, Parents' Night out. They may be held sporadically throughout the year and shall be coordinated by an Ad Hoc committee or by the Executive Board. This category accounts for approximately 25% of our effort.
3. Support school activities and increase school spirit.
Will include the selection and sale of a school T-shirt, publishing a school directory, coordinating teacher appreciation events, promoting PTO membership, supporting/rewarding student activities. This activity will occur constantly throughout the year. Everyone on the PTO Executive Board is involved to some degree. It accounts for approximately 20% of our efforts.
4.Raise funds for supplemental services, equipment, and supplies.
Depending on the goals for the year, the PTO may plan up to two major fund-raisers per year. One is usually a catalog sale (wrapping paper, candy, gift items), the other some sort of event, like a school carnival. The funds will be used to purchase school computers and software, pay for educational enrichment programs, cover the cost of events such as "Track and Field", assist with teacher supplies and training, provide equipment for music and P.E. classes. There are also some less interactive fundraising activities, such as the collection and redemption of General Mills BoxTops. Fundraising is expected to occupy approximately 20% of the PTO's time.
5. Support the school administration.
PTO officers participate in plans for the Campus Management Plan, safety programs, testing schedules, and technology initiatives. While the PTO does not set policy, it supports these efforts and provides feedback and assistance as requested. These activities occur sporadically throughout the year, generally involving the President and/or key officers. This is expected to occupy 5% of the PTO effort.
[ 08-27-2002: Message edited by: JHB ]</p>
