Home Page
Information about the PTO Art Education Program
PTO Budget, Financial Statements, and Meeting Minutes
Important Dates!
2009 Carnival
Have a Question? You're answer may be here!
What FUNdraising does the PTO do?
How can you help on Hospitality and what is it?
How can I join the PTO?
Past Newsletters
What is the PTO Performing Arts program?
Playground Updates
Check out the President's blog!
PTO Board Members
What can you purchase from the PTO?
Link to TES Main Webpage
Volunteer Today!
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.

Why a PTO instead of PTA?
    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?
    Go to the membership page for details on how to join.

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 by September 30th
    will also be included and receive a PTO directory which will list all
    members by grade level for easy reference.  *(Members may opt out of being
    placed in the directory by letting the PTO know at the time of registration.)

How do I volunteer with the PTO?
    Visit the volunteer page for details on upcoming volunteer
    opportunities.

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 the
    second Tuesday of February at 7pm.  The annual meeting, where
    members may vote for board positions, etc. will be held on the first
    Tuesday of May at 7pm.  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 either
    in the gym, library or cafeteria.

Who can attend the meetings?
    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 Tammy Slade,
    PTO President.

Still have other questions?