| Joan K. Mendel Elementary School has had a long history of PTO support. For those parents that have a returning student or students, we hope you will continue to support our worthy organization by becoming a PTO member this year. As for new parents to Joan K. Mendel ES, joining the PTO is another reward for knowing that you helped contribute to an organization that promotes educating our children.
What is the PTO?
"PTO" stands for Parent Teacher Organization, and one of its main purposes is "…to ensure that our children are provided with the highest advantages in physical, mental, and social education with the efforts of the educators and the general public" (taken from our Constitution and By-laws).
What is the difference between a PTO and a PTA?
A PTO is run by a single-school group that creates its own constitutions and by-laws. The best thing about the PTO is that ALL the money we raise is kept within the school. Whereas, the PTA is a national group, and each PTA group has to pay dues to the state and the national organization, and they must abide by state and national group rules.
Where does the money go that the PTO raises?
Unlike a PTA, all money raised by the PTO stays within Joan K. Mendel ES. The PTO sponsors and supports many programs throughout the school year. Here are a few programs that the PTO supports: Reach for the Stars, Reading Night Out, Holiday Concert, Holiday Door Decoration Contest, Candy Cane Lane, Teacher’s Classroom Fund, School Related Multi-Cultural events, Cultural Summer School, and many more.
How can I be actively involved?
By volunteering your time and talents, and by becoming a committee member for one or more of our programs!
Can I still join if I might not be able to volunteer?
Certainly! We understand that work and family can leave little time for other things. We certainly hope that you joining is not contingent on whether or not you have the time to volunteer. As a PTO member, we welcome all your ideas and any support when possible. |
