Parent-Teacher Associations (PTA) focus on programs that enrich your child’s school experience. Members help one another to navigate the challenges that students and their schools face.
If your school doesn’t have a PTA, now may be the time to start one. After all, thanks to shrinking budgets, larger class sizes and ever-increasing performance standards for both teachers and students, your support and the assistance of the community have never been more essential.
The National PTA reports that more than 85 research studies over the past 30 years state that kids do better when their parents are involved. Being involved in the launch of a new PTA chapter for your child’s school is the perfect opportunity to do exactly that. Check out this guide we’ve put together to help you get started.
What is the meaning of the PTA?
Your first step should be visiting the National PTA site at www.pta.org. It will get you up to speed on the many resources and programs that this organization offers, as well as how to start your own chapter.
For 125 years, this student-focused group has worked to connect and empower millions of parents, teachers, leaders, and community members. By working together and combining their efforts, they improve schools, foster positive relationships between families and educational institutions, and prepare students for their futures.
In fact, many of the things that we take for granted today, including the National School Lunch Program, the juvenile justice system, child labor laws, and universal kindergarten, are the result of the advocacy of PTA members.
The PTA also provides its members with free resources on issues and areas such as arts education, healthy lifestyles, family reading, STEM, and health and safety.
What are the key functions of a PTA?
The National PTA is centered around the following functions, and its partner organizations work with them to succeed as one:
- Advocacy: As the “conscience of the country for issues affecting children and youth,” the PTA works to increase public awareness of important issues and influence positive change.
- Building a Community: If the school is the heart of the community, the PTA is how it connects to it. Through events, fundraising, and outreach efforts, your group will work to strengthen those ties.
- Access to Opportunities: The National PTA’s mission is to “make every child’s potential a reality.” You’ll be part of this, working to find ways for every student to succeed and thrive.
- Membership and Community Support: The PTA offers parents and caregivers the opportunity to actively participate in developing their child’s potential.
- Social and Emotional Well-Being: You’ll also work to guide students through the non-academic lessons of going to school, using tools, resources, and programs from the larger national group.
- Distance Teaching and Learning: PTAs are at the forefront of providing students and teachers with the tools, resources, and support they need to be successful distance learners and instructors.
- Bridging the Digital Divide: PTAs focus on earning grant money and conducting fundraising efforts to help families without access to computers or a strong internet connection.
- Addressing Food Insecurity: Working with the National PTA and other groups, you’ll build local food banks and businesses to fight food insecurity in your community.
What are the benefits of establishing a PTA?
- The PTA addresses issues like full funding, quality teachers, and capabilities for schools to thrive. Creating your own PTA can do so much for your school and community:
Enhancing School-Parent Collaboration
- Increased Family Engagement: PTAs help engage families in school activities
- and decision-making processes, leading to stronger community ties and a feeling of shared responsibility for student success.
- Effective Communication: PTAs create more effective communication channels between parents and schools, ensuring everyone is on the same page.
Community Building
- Networking: The PTA is a place to meet others with your concerns, discuss them, and share your ideas for improving things. You can also work with local organizations, adding their support and resources.
- A Chance to Speak Up: Instead of wondering why things aren’t changing, you can lend your voice and work with others to improve the school experience.
Supporting Educational Initiatives
- Program Implementation: PTAs work to create initiatives that directly impact school improvement and student success.
- Funding Opportunities: Establishing a PTA can qualify your school for grants and awards, providing crucial financial support.
These are just a few of the many benefits of creating a PTA. Your group can also help teachers and schools in numerous ways.
How do you start a PTA?
Starting a PTA may seem difficult. However, following these steps can make it a rewarding experience.
Gathering Support and Interest
- Reach Out: Start by gauging interest among other parents, teachers, and school staff members. One way to do that is by hosting an informal meeting to share the benefits of forming a PTA. You can even use this article to get started.
- Build a Core Group: If you want your group to succeed, you need to start with enthusiastic peers who share your goals. Finding the right parents and teachers who are committed to this project and can share the work is essential.
How to Find Great First Board Members for the Association
- Identify Key Roles: As you look for your first President, Vice President, Secretary, and Treasurer, seek candidates who are passionate about education and have leadership and organizational skills.
- Encourage Diversity: Aim for a board representing different backgrounds, genders, ages, and experiences within your school community.
Kicking Off Your First PTA Activities
- Plan Initial Events: Organize a kickoff meeting to introduce the PTA to the broader school community. Consider making this an informational meeting, a fun family night, or a school improvement brainstorming session.
- Establish Regular Meetings: Schedule monthly or quarterly meetings to maintain momentum and engagement.
How do you sustain and grow your PTA?
Once your PTA is up and running, it’s essential to maintain and build on your momentum. We’ve put together some strategies that will help you create long-term success:
Foster Continuous Engagement
- Keep Communicating: Use newsletters, social media, and school communication platforms to keep families, teachers, and the community informed and engaged.
- Involve Volunteers: Create committees that allow parents to get involved based on their interests and availability.
Assess and Adapt
- Gather Feedback: Regularly ask members for feedback on what’s working, what isn’t, and how things can be improved.
- Evaluate Programs: Assess the effectiveness of PTA programs and initiatives, adjusting as necessary to better meet the school’s and your community’s needs.
Celebrate Successes
Acknowledge Contributions: Regularly recognize your volunteers’ efforts and
the impact of their initiatives.
Share Achievements: Communicate successes to the broader school community to build enthusiasm and encourage further involvement.
Establishing a PTA is about making a tangible difference in your school community. By enhancing collaboration, supporting educational initiatives, and fostering a sense of belonging, a PTA can significantly impact every student’s future.
Whether you’re just beginning to explore the idea of a PTA or are ready to dive in, we wish you success. As you work to empower families, support your school, and champion every child’s right to a quality education, we hope that you find your voice and connect others for your cause.