Q: What is the PTO and what does it do?
The Parent Teacher Organization (PTO) is a volunteer group of parents, volunteers, and school staff who work together to enrich the school experience for all students. We organize events, raise funds, support teachers, and build community. The membership fee to join the PTO is a one-time $25 for the entire school year. We know paying for another thing to be a part of can be tough, but please note that membership fees go 100% back to the programs we run for our students and teachers. We also encourage families to volunteer in any capacity they are able to, though volunteering is never a requirement.
Q: What is needed to volunteer with the PTO?
All you need is a willingness to help and a completed volunteer packet with clearance from the school! Most volunteer opportunities are flexible and can work around your schedule. We welcome all kinds of support, whether it's an hour at an event or helping behind the scenes.
Q: How does the PTO support teachers and classrooms?
Each year, the PTO provides a grant to every teacher to help cover classroom supplies, materials, and enrichment activities. We also help fund school-wide events, field trips, and staff appreciation efforts. We also fund student led programs such as ASB, School Safety Patrol (SSP), and Theatre Club.
Q: What events does the PTO organize?
The PTO organizes a wide range of fun and engaging events throughout the school year! Some of our traditional events include Trunk-or-Treat, our Valentine's Dance, our annual Benito Juárez Day Celebration, and the Summer Send-Off family picnic to close out the school year.
Many events are parent-led so if you’re interested in helping to plan and execute an event, we encourage you to sign up for a specific committee that piques your interest.
Check out our Volunteer Page and follow us on social media to stay in the loop!
Q: Do I need to attend every PTO meeting to participate?
Not at all! We know parents are busy so join when you can. We appreciate any level of involvement, big or small. And yes, kids are welcome to attend the meetings, so feel free to bring them along!
Q: How are PTO funds raised and used?
Our funds come from fundraising events, donations, and partnerships with local businesses who provide givebacks to our nonprofit. Every dollar goes back into supporting students, teachers, and school community needs, from classroom grants and assemblies to field trips and family engagement.
Q: Who can I contact if I have questions about PTO?
Feel free to email us at general@juarezelementarypto.com or say hello if you see us on campus, we love meeting new families!
Q: How are PTO funds allocated?
Each year, the PTO creates a budget based on input from board members, teachers, school leadership, and member feedback from the previous year. The proposed budget is reviewed, approved by the board, and voted on by PTO members at the first meeting of the new school year.
Any new event or funding request not included in the approved budget, or any reallocation over $400, must be presented to the PTO membership for a majority vote. These votes typically take place at monthly PTO meetings. If the request is time-sensitive, a vote may be requested via email to all PTO members.