FAQs

Frequently Asked Questions

What does the PTO do? What events/ programs are funded by the PTO?

We are reestablishing our PTO so we are working on A LOT! Here are a few things we are doing this year:

• Teacher/ staff lunches and or dinners for school events like conferences and Open House. 

• Novemberfest, which is our craft fair in November. 

• Coordinate restaurant fundraisers

• Help to provide volunteers for school events, such as Open House.

• Provide support for requests submitted by school staff and administration.

• Help to fund projects at the school such as new benches and microscope maintenance.

How does the PTO raise funds? Where does the money go?

Currently, our biggest forms of fundraising comes from Novemberfest and restaurant nights. We also have a Paypal set up for donations. All funds go toward the support of our students, staff, and teachers.

How does the PTO communicate with parents?

We are in the beginning stages of setting up a website for ease of access. However, at this time, primary communication is done through our Facebook page, through attending our monthly meetings, and any info our principal sends out in the Weekly ROAR. 

Who can be a member of the PTO?

Teachers, Staff, and as a parent/guardian of a child who attends Tortolita Middle school, you are automatically a member of the PTO. We encourage all parents and guardians to attend our virtual meetings on Google Meets, and we love when you attend events with your children.

When and where are the meetings held?

Our meetings meet you where you are! We hold virtual meetings. So you could just call in and listen to what’s going on and what we are working on next. We encourage all ideas! Our meetings are on the 1st Thursday of every month at 5 pm. If you give us your email, we will send you a meet link. 

Why should I come to the meetings?

For anyone who wants to be involved in their child’s/ children’s education PTO meetings are a great way to be involved! By helping out when you are available, you are helping your child/ children but also their learning environment! Our meetings help you stay informed about upcoming events and other parent engagement activities. PTO can help you connect with the school and surrounding community to engage in meaningful change. 

How do I volunteer for the PTO? How do I find volunteer opportunities?

We are so glad you asked! We have a sign up QR code! It is a google form that will connect you to the PTO. We can send you the meeting minutes and any volunteer opportunities that come up. Rest assured, we will not ask you to volunteer for EVERY event. We work as a team and so try to spread out the fun and the work. 

What if I am not able to volunteer in person? How can I help?

Unable to do in person, no problem! We could always use help with connecting with vendors, restaurants, donors, and other virtual tasks. We work as a team and so we appreciate any help you are able to provide. We do not expect that everyone who signs up to be a PTO member to be able to attend every in person event. 

How do I get in touch with the PTO Board?

Message us on Facebook, or send us an email, tortolitacommunitypto@gmail.com.

I am interested in becoming a board member, how do I join?

Our elections are held during the last meeting of the year in May. Positions are assigned for 1 year terms. Join us for our monthly meetings and we would be happy to answer any questions you may have. You may also contact us via email or our Facebook page. 

I would like to become a sponsor/ donor, how can I help?

AMAZING! Please send us an email or contact us on  Facebook and we would love to create a partnership!

I am a vendor. Who can I contact to discuss opportunities?

Whether or not you are a food truck or own another kind of business, we would love to discuss possibilities for partnership. Please send us an email at tortolitacommunitypto@gmail.com .

What is the difference between a PTO and PTA?

Tortolita Community PTO is a Parent-Teacher Organization and we do not require membership dues to be a member. PTA (Parent- Teacher Association) require membership dues and usually belong to a national association that also requires membership dues. 

Is the Tortolita Community PTO considered a nonprofit?

Why YES! We have been approved for 501(3)(C) status with the IRS and so have an EIN/ TIN registered with them. The Board and members are all volunteers.