Why Join the PTO?

A lot of exciting changes are happening to make the Parent Teacher Organization at Valley Park Elementary the very best it can be! We have many new families who have joined the VPE Community and we welcome all of you and encourage you to become an active participant in your child's school. Studies have shown that children will be more successful if parents are involved in their education.

What does it mean to be a member?

That depends on you. You can be a member in name only or you can become an active member. We invite you to become an active participant in your student's education by being an active participant in the VPE PTO. Parents, grandparents, neighbors, and siblings, we need your help! Being an active participant, being involved, is not synonymous with being "suckered in". The level of involvement is up to you!

Why should I be a participating member?

Participation through volunteering allows you to be "hands on" with your child's education. Our children love to see us in this environment where they spend seven hours a day. You get to know your children's teachers and your children's friends.

Participation through attendance at PTO meetings gives you a voice. You help decide what we do as a group. You help decide where the money should go. If you are new to VPE, we are here to answer questions and ease your transition into becoming a part of our school family. If you are new to our community, were always happy to help wherever possible. An added bonus is that you have the opportunity to meet amazing people who can become great friends.

What are the benefits of membership?

The benefits of membership are very rewarding. You have the knowledge that, with your participation and involvement, the educational and social experiences of all students at VPE have been greatly enhanced. Your $25 Family Membership dues grant you the power to vote on the future programs and direction of our school activities. Additionally, you will have access to our secure online Directory through June 30 of the following year.

Isn't the PTO only about fundraising?

The PTO is more than just fundraising. Fundraising is a necessary evil as school budgets are subjected to more and more cuts. It is our privilege to be able to provide the supplies, equipment and activities that our school budgets can no longer cover. We are only able to do that through our VPE families willingness to participate in our fundraisers.

Fall Carnival, Scholastic Book Fair, Restaurant Nights, and Spirit Wear are just some of the ways we raise money for items such as classroom supplies, literacy support, field trips, and teacher grants. These events also help to fund Chess Club, Community Service, Panther Book Club, First LEGO League, Field Day, and other activities like our Family Fun programs. Learn more about all our programs!

We are all working together toward a common goal. That goal is creating a better school and a better educational experience for our children. We strive to create an atmosphere where teachers, administrators, and support staff can do their best work - and so can our children.

There's so much more that can be done, but we need your help! We look forward to seeing all that can be and will be accomplished this school year when we come together, as a group and as a community to enhance and maximize the education of every child.

So, what are you waiting for???

Resources

Responsive Classroom. (n.d.).What Research Says About Parent Involvement.

https://www.responsiveclassroom.org/what-research-says-about-parent-involvement/

Waterford.org. (2018, November 1). How Parent Involvement Leads to Student Success.

https://www.waterford.org/education/how-parent-involvment-leads-to-student-success/