We receive lots of questions about what we do, who we are, and how people can help.  Click below on the frequently asked questions to find some answers! 

 

If you have other questions that are not listed here, please reach out to us.

What is PTO?

 

PTO stands for Parent Teacher Organization.

 

The Herod PTO is a nonprofit group comprised of parents, teachers, and staff dedicated to improving the educational experience of all students at Gary L. Herod Elementary School. Our goals are to encourage interaction between family and school, serve as a source of support, and work with teachers, staff, and the community to improve our children’s educational experience. The PTO works closely with the school administration to meet this goal.

 

What does the PTO do, exactly?

 

If you look up “PTO” in the dictionary, you might find words like “organize, support, help, and volunteer.” The PTO organizes special events such as fall fest, the spring auction, teacher appreciation, the on-site "Jetway" store, and spirit shirt designs/sales, to name a few.

 

Who can join PTO?

 

Any parent or guardian of a current student of Herod ES, as well as any current faculty and staff.

 

How do I become a member?

 

It is free and easy: complete our membership form online. It is never too late to join! We also welcome any donation you are willing to make to our work.

 

Do I have to sign up for each child?

 

No, your membership covers all children in your immediate household who attend Herod Elementary School.

 

What are the benefits of membership?

 

First, it gives you a voice! Your membership entitles you to vote at all meetings on PTO business. (There is one vote per household.) We send out a weekly newsletter that helps you stay informed about school happenings!  You will learn early about opportunities to volunteer at our many events throughout the year. Volunteering is encouraged but is NOT required. Your involvement in PTO helps us continue programs that enhance your child’s learning experience.

 

What programs does PTO fund and support? 

 

These are just a few of the programs that PTO supports:

  • Designing and Selling Spirit Shirts and Sweatshirts
  • Raising Funds for Campus Improvements
  • Putting on Fun Run, Fall Fest, and Trunk or Treat
  • Sponsoring student clubs
  • Teacher Appreciation Luncheons
  • Box Tops for Education
  • Kroger Share Card
  • Student celebrations and parties
  • Annual Spring Auction event
  • Assisting teachers with grants for classroom and student needs

 

When and Where are the General PTO Meetings?

 

We typically meet one Friday every other month in the Teacher's Lounge right after =) Hour with the Principal.  We post the minutes after the meeting.

 

This year, we will meet:

  • September 20, 2024

  • December 13, 2024

  • February 21, 2025

  • May 16, 2025, including Volunteer Appreciation breakfast

We will be hosting meetings via Microsoft Teams or Zoom.

 

We hope this will enable more parents to get connected, involved, and informed. More information will be shared in the weekly newsletter!

 

Why should I come to PTO Meetings?

 

The number one reason is to benefit your child. In doing so, you also help our school.

  • Stay involved. The PTO is an excellent opportunity to become involved in your child’s education at Herod.
  • Get connected! There is no better way to get involved in what is happening or will happen at Herod.
  • Stay informed. By getting involved at Herod, you will join the team and help to make positive changes.
  • Tap into a network. Come and share ideas, concerns, and experiences with other parents and educators in the community. PTO functions are an opportunity to meet other parents and teachers and build rapport and strong relationships.
  • Be a role model. By becoming active in the PTO, you will demonstrate to your child the importance you place on education. Studies show that children do better in school when parents are involved.
  • Speak Up. PTO offers a forum for exchanging ideas and making suggestions. PTO can be a way for you to impact things at Herod.

 

How can I make a difference at Herod?

 

The PTO believes that parent involvement is essential to a student’s success. We strongly encourage all parents and faculty to join the PTO. Joining the PTO is an excellent way to support your child and ensure they receive the best education possible. You can attend the PTO meetings, volunteer your time for PTO events, and support the fundraising events to help educate your children. Your support is important to us.

 

How can I help?

 

Please consider helping in any way that fits your schedule. There are many things that you can do to help. Perhaps what works best is to show your support through making a financial contribution. Maybe you can dedicate several hours to a special event or fundraiser. The time you spend participating in PTO activities is up to your discretion. The important thing is that you become involved in your child’s educational experience. You may contact the PTO office or any of our Officers and let them know you are interested in volunteering, and they will gladly help you find the perfect place. Even if the school year is underway, getting involved is never too late!  Herod needs you!

 

How can I help raise funds and support Herod?

 

There are several easy ways to help.

  • Donate or become a Corporate Sponsor.
  • Support our fundraising events: Fun Run and Spring Auction. These are our largest fundraisers of the year, so we need your support!
  • Shopping!  Check out the details here. 

 

How does the PTO acquire the necessary funds to sponsor so many projects?

 

We do this through many avenues, including Fundraising, corporate sponsorships, and donations. Your support of these activities is vital to our success!

 

What happens to the money raised by the PTO?

 

Each year, our Board Members create a budget that is voted on at the Fall General Membership meetings. The PTO strives to raise at least enough funds to meet some of the items on the school's teacher and administration wish lists. There is an official grant request process for teachers and staff to request funds—this is how we decide where the money goes.

 

While fundraising is not our primary goal, it is an essential aspect of the PTO. Money raised by the PTO-sponsored events helps purchase supplemental materials for Herod students and staff. One hundred percent of the funds raised through PTO go directly back to benefit the Herod students. PTO’s role has become even more critical as we raise funds to supplement the cost of the schools’ needs. The PTO gladly works to provide some of the extras that our students and teachers receive. In the past, some of these extras include:

  • Additional resources for the Library
  • Social and Community events
  • T-shirts and Spirit Wear for students
  • Family Nights
  • Classroom parties
  • Teacher appreciation week
  • Recess and playground equipment
  • Buses or tickets for field trips

 

How do I become an officer?

 

All positions are for a one-year term. To be eligible for officer nominations, one must currently have a student enrolled at Herod Elementary School. Nominees must also have completed the Volunteer in Public Schools (VIPS) training and background check to attend the board meetings. Compliance with and a clear understanding of the PTO Bylaws is also required.

 

If you meet all these requirements, email our PTO President at president@herodpto.org.