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| Tomahawk Elementary School Parent Teacher Organization |
What is the PTO?
- The Parent-Teacher Organization (PTO) at Tomahawk Elementary
has been an active and important part of the school for many
years. The organization is dedicated to promoting and supporting
the students, staff and curriculum at TES.
What is the goal of the PTO?
- Our goal is to provide a means of ongoing and organized
communications between parents and staff, enrich students'
educational experiences by providing programs and activities for
students and their families and offer opportunities for parents and
community members to become involved in the education of our
youth.
- A PTA (Parent Teacher Association) and PTO function in much the
same manner. Both have the same objects and common missions
in supporting their schools. The main difference between a PTO
and a PTA is how the organization is operated. A PTA is part of a
state and national organization, pays dues to those organization
and in return receive various support items from the two entities.
The dues are also used to advocate for children across the state
and nation. TES parents have made the choice to not be a PTA.
The resources supplied by the PTA local and national organization
are available by assorted free websites, such as PTOToday. This
also helps ensure that all funds which are developed at Tomahawk
are used locally for the support of TES students.
How is the PTO funded?
- Funds for PTO programs, supplies and activities are acquired
through family memberships, donations, fund-raising events, grant
opportunities and community sponsors which participate with the
PTO throughout the school year.
What are the funds used for?
- All monies raised by the PTO go directly back to the school. The
funds are used to cover the Artist-In-Education Program including
all supplies and the artist's salary, new playground equipment and
maintenance, "Camp Child" scholarships, Performing Arts
programs, Family Fun Nights, and much more, including the
support and encouragement of the teachers and staff of TES.
Who can join the PTO?
- Parents, grandparents, staff members, friends, and relatives are
encouraged to join.
How do I join the PTO?
How much is membership?
- Annual membership fees are ONLY $5 per family.
What do I receive for my membership?
- When you become part of the PTO Booster Club you and your child
both receive the benefits of the many programs that the PTO
sponsors at TES. PTO Members who sign up for the PTO will also
receive a specially designed Academic Planner which contains
many of the PTO and TES event dates as well as other important
information busy on the go parents need!
How do I volunteer with the PTO?
If I join the PTO do I have to volunteer?
- While we encourage you to volunteer with as many activities and
programs that you would like to participate in your membership
does NOT require you to volunteer for any of the events or
activities that are done throughout the year. Remember though...
The best way to show you care is to be involved in your child's
education!
When are PTO Meetings?
- As outlined by the PTO By-Laws the general board meetings are
scheduled for the night of Open House in September and February
at 7pm. The annual meeting, where members may vote for board
positions, etc. will be in April or May each year. If additional
"special" meetings need to be called or meeting dates conflict with
other school activities PTO members will be informed of the
meetings and possible changes as outlined in the By-Laws. All
meetings will take place at TES in the gym unless otherwise
advertised.
- All TES parents and friends may attend the meetings. Only PTO
members may vote on any item of importance. To be eligible to
vote at the meeting members must join the PTO as outlined by the
By-Laws.
What happens at the meetings?
- Upcoming events, FUNdraising, budget items, board elections, etc.
are discussed and decided on.
Can I server on the board?
- YES! The board is a group of volunteers and is always looking for
additional members! For more information contact Barbara
Rypkema, PTO President.