PTO
Wickliffe Alternative School

What is the PTO?

PTO is a vital organization designed to represent parents and teachers in their efforts to support our children’s learning experiences. This is done through a variety of social, educational and service programs.

Who belongs to the PTO?

All Wickliffe parents and teachers are encouraged to join the PTO. It is your opportunity to become involved in the many activities that are sponsored through the PTO. This is your group and the forum which you can use to express opinions on school issues, programs, etc.

Who’s in charge of the PTO?

The PTO Board consists of 6 executive officers, the school principal, and one teacher representative, all of whom have voting privileges. Committee chairpersons lead the various committees. Any parent who is a member of the PTO may and is encouraged to serve on the Board.

When does the PTO meet?

Board meetings are generally held once a month at 11:15 at school. This time allows for the teacher representative to attend each meeting. General PTO meetings are usually scheduled two times per year.

Who pays for the PTO?

There is a nominal family fee for PTO membership. These dues are paid at the beginning of each school year. Annual student directories are provided with the membership. In addition the PTO sponsors various fundraisers throughout the year.

Why does the PTO have other fundraisers?

The PTO pays for many of the activities and much of the equipment that Wickliffe children need and enjoy. This requires thousands of dollars each year. There are two types of funding that the PTO engages in every year:

One type of funding is for large, one-time projects. These projects are selected by the PTO Board. Some examples are the playground, the stage and lighting, and technology support.

The second type of funding is designed to support ongoing PTO programs. Examples are cultural arts activities, teacher grants that provide field trips and classroom activities, social events, playground upkeep and equipment, etc. This partial list exemplifies the types of enhancement PTO provides each year.

Why should I join the PTO?

• It is important for all parents to have an avenue for input into the school their children attend.
• It is important for children to see that their parents care enough about their school to be involved. This demonstrates to children that we all have an investment in our school community and establishes increased sense of responsibility for that community.
  
• The PTO needs your help in lots of ways. Our many programs and projects require hours of manpower and a wide variety of skills. All PTO members have very busy lives. Many of our most active members have full time jobs, preschoolers or teens. Some have all three. If each of us does a little, the big job gets easier.
• There is an enormous sense of satisfaction that comes with doing a job that enriches the lives of our children. PTO membership is a terrific way to meet other parents with similar interests and goals. Many great friendships have been the result of working together on a project. Children really take pride in their parent’s involvement in their school. At this age they love having you around!

The Wickliffe PTO invites you to join our membership. We are providing this information so that you may see just how much we need you

Hopefully we have answered some of the questions you may have about the PTO. We welcome other questions and your suggestions. Please contact the school office at 487-5150 for the name and phone number of the current PTO president.