I'm guessing yours is a paid position at the school? Is that right?
Either way, perhaps you could collaborate with your PTA on parent involvement programs, rather than operating on separate tracks.
As an example, you could find a program that they run, and offer your services (getting teacher buy-in, making sure district and school are behind the effort, your own time and creativity) to make it even better.
Similarly, if you have a great idea for a new event (your food, family and fun troika is a great start), then perhaps -- rather than asking PTA for $$ -- you could ask for help (promotion, organizational support, etc.).
There are lots of great parent involvement ideas that don't require large $$. Grab a cup of coffee and spend some time on this site, and you'll find a bunch. It's definitely worth the effort, though it's not easy and it can be a frustratingly gradual process.
Do you have a membership fee? Get people involved. Do you have room reps for the class rooms? Ours have to be PTA members because they are a board position. Make sure you get in there and get noticed. Keep track of all your volunteer hours, and make a presentation at the school board meeting so they see how much time PTA puts into the schools. Maybe then you will get some help. [img]tongue.gif[/img]
Hi! I'm a Parent Liaison at an Elementary School that is only 5 years old. We are not Title I and I was given 200.00 for the whole year to run the Parent Program. I have asked my principal to do a fundraiser, but she says that people are burned out from fundraisers right now. I've also approached the PTA for some help, but they declined because of they said I have to spend the money the school gave me first and then there is no guarantee they would help me then. I don't know what to do. We had 2 grocery stores close in this area recently, and the 3 that are left, are burdened by all the schools asking for donations.
We've had a few little donations, but not alot of Parent Involvement this year. Participation is low, and I try to follow the 3 F's to parent involvement activities. They are Food, Family, Fun but it just seems that I'm running into a brick wall when it comes to Parent Involvement. Does anyone have any suggestions to get funding?
Thanks!