Ok so we have a PTA not a PTO, I wish it were a PTO because i am opposed morally to PTA but have agreed to get on board hopefully to change things I don't like. But I feel like I am going against everything I stand for when I walk into meetings lol!
First issue I have Fundraisers- so I signed on as the chairperson. I would like to find something that 1-doesn't require students going door to door, 2-Something that we keep more money for our efforts, and 3- gives the community and students ownership in the school, meaning they see the fruits of their labor and actually learn something from it.
When I first asked about what the money we were raising was for I was told "general PTA budget" meaning fieldtrips, newsletter, literacy and community events, and usually they give something to the school like a die cut machine for the teachers, etc. At back to school night I found out that they are raising money for a new playground. Well, that would seem to me a greater cause to push than the PTA budget. However the PTA is sponsoring 2 additional fundraisers that I was unaware of to accomplish this. One is happening now where kids are supposed to bring their change to school, the other is happening next month along with the one I am supposed to be in charge of (selling wrapping paper,not my choice but the previous chair signed a contract so we are locked into it.
As I see it we are already nickel and diming everyone to death. We live in a poor school, poor district, and small town with 3 elementaries a high school, intermediate and junior high. There is a lot of asking for money going on from all schools plus we offer t-shirts, yearbooks, school pictures twice a year, book fairs, carnival, the list goes on. It seems like the kids are always coming home with things to buy. I have mentioned that I think we are "selling" too much but then I find out that we are doing more than previous years. I guess I am just venting more than anything. I just feel frustrated that we are essentially competing with ourselves to raise money not to mention there is a lot more going. I am also frustrated that they didn't tell me as people may call me asking me about the additional fundraisers because they are PTA sponsored my worry is people will think I am in charge and I don't want the credit.
I had a friend tell me to quit. I don't think this is the answer but how much is too much? What are some ideas for simplifying? Have multiple fundraisers just spread the dollar around or do they help? What are some fundraisers that reach the above mentioned criteria? Are there any?
Thank you
