What is PTA?

Ever wonder what PTA is all about or how you could help?  Here is some FAQ that may answer some of your questions.  If it doesn't, just ask. :)

What is PTA?
The Northwood PTA is an organization made up of parents, teachers and staff dedicated to the well-being, development and education of our students.

Why is PTA important?
PTA plays a significant role in supporting key school functions, including assemblies, social and cultural festivals and other academic and enrichment events. The PTA also determines where special funds and resources are allocated, which can include new playground equipment, or music and other special programs.

How do I join?
PTA membership is $10. Membership dues are critical to help fund special programs for the students, including educational and family/social activities. You can sign-up today by completing a PTA membership envelop. (Ask the office if you need an envelope.)

What does it mean to be a “member” of PTA?
PTA membership ensures that the students, teachers and staff continue to have the funds and support needed to sponsor key programs for our students. Membership demonstrates your support to the students and the Northwood Elementary School, and allows you to have a voice in key decision-making processes that impact our students and school.

I don’t have a lot of time. Maybe I shouldn’t join?
No! Volunteering is not mandatory. Though volunteering with various events and programs is encouraged, you can spend as little or as much time as you can afford. Every minute that you contribute will go a long way with the students.

How often does the PTA meet?
The PTA meets five times during the school year. These meetings are designed to update parents and staff around key programs, budgetary decisions and other important school matters. These meetings are not mandatory, and are designed to serve you.

What type of events does the PTA sponsor?
The PTA sponsors and promotes a wide-range of programs. These include the bi-annual book-fair, family movie nights at the school, educational and enrichment assemblies, annual Harvest Festival, Star-Gazing nights, and many more. For instance, the star-gazing night is where the PTA works with a local Astronomy Club in which numerous telescopes are set-up to the night sky. Lectures are also provided so that students can gain a stronger appreciation for space and the universe around us. Our students love and appreciate these programs, and these could not happen without the PTA!

Who is the PTA Board?
The PTA Board is comprised of parents and Northwood Staff. The parents on the PTA Board all have one or more children attending Northwood Elementary School, and are dedicated to improving the overall school experience for all students. The current Board members are listed below.

Any other questions?
We would love to hear from you. Please feel free to get in contact any one of the Board members below. You can also LIKE US on Facebook to ensure you are kept up-to-date with all special meetings and events! (“Northwood Elementary PTA”)

̏More than 30 years of research show that children do BETTER when their parents and families are INVOLVED both at home and at school. Grades are HIGHER. Test scores RISE. Self-esteem GROWS. Schools IMPROVE. You can make these outcomes a reality for your child, your school, and your community by being involved in PTA.

Northwood PTA advocates and works hard for the children, sponsoring a variety of academic and enrichment programs, and linking families and community to the school. We are always looking to strengthen our PTA and look to your continued help and support.