Welcome to Hiawatha Elementary PTO
Parent Teacher OrganizationWelcome to Hiawatha PTO!
We are a Parent-Teacher Organization, or PTO. Unlike a PTA, there are no dues to be a part of this organization. If you would like to learn more about the PTO or participate, please attend a meeting or contact any board member to express your desires to volunteer for any of our activities or committees! We sponsor several activities throughout the school year and we welcome and appreciate ALL of our parent and teacher volunteers.
2020-2021 School Year PTO Board
President: Wanda Johnson
Vice President: Jen Stroh
Secretary: Angel Orsini
Treasurer: Erica Diehl
Volunteers & Committees
It takes many individuals with a variety of talents and resources to make our activities successful. For example, you can:
- Donate food or drinks
- Stuff envelopes to be mailed to businesses for donations
- Work a time slot during an event
- Participate in a planning committee!
Volunteering is a great way to meet other parents and help the school at the same time.
Feel free to contact us and we’ll find something that fits you.
Sign Up to Volunteer Today
Hiawatha PTO uses SignUp Genius to schedule volunteers.
Hiawatha Parent-Teacher Organization (PTO): Q&A
What is a PTO?
Wikipedia.com says: “A PTO is a formal organization that consists of parents, teachers and school staff. The organization‟s goals may vary from organization to organization, but essentially the goals may include volunteerism of parents, encouragement of teachers and students, community involvement, and welfare of students and families.”
What are the goals of the Hiawatha PTO?
The Hiawatha Parent-Teacher Organization has several objectives (as written in the bylaws):
- To enrich the lives of children and youth in home, school and community
- To encourage a positive home and school life
- To facilitate teachers and parents working together for the enrichment of children
- To build a partnership within our Hiawatha community that will encourage the growth and development of our children
What are the PTO activities that support the goals?
The Hiawatha PTO has several programs to support these goals. We hold fundraisers and family events at the school. We delight in providing teachers with funds for classroom enrichment for the children. Please see the “fundraising” tabs for more information.
Why should I attend PTO meetings?
The meetings provide the opportunity to learn more about what is occurring in the school. Regular agenda items include an update from the principal on current topics e.g. Iowa Assessment scores, teacher activities and special programs occurring for the kids, as well as updates on the PTO budget and programs. In addition, speakers are invited to certain meetings for special topic presentations e.g. internet safety, running club, diversity in the school, internet sites to support student learning.
Is it required that I attend the meetings to be part of the PTO?
No. Every parent/guardian of children attending Hiawatha Elementary School are members of the school’s PTO. There are no membership fees. There are several ways that you can be actively involved and help enrich the school and the kids’ experience. It takes many individuals with a variety of talents and resources to make it happen. Whether it is providing food for conference meals, filling cups of water at the Cougar Chase, working a shift of games at the Spring Carnival or contacting businesses for donations from home – there is something for everyone.
How can I become a member of the PTO?
You already are! The general members of the PTO are parents, step-parents or guardians of students as well as all other interested extended family members of students attending Hiawatha Elementary. General members also include all Hiawatha teachers, administrators and support staff.