What does a PTA do?
The Parent-Teacher Association (PTA) is a grassroots organization made up of parents, teachers, and others in our community who have an interest in children, families, and schools. It is a voluntary nonprofit organization designed to:

  *  Enrich student education and experience
  *  Support teachers and staff
  *  Enhance parent involvement and communication
  *  Promote the school spirit 
 
 
Why join PTA? How does it benefit me?
The primary reason to join the PTA is to benefit your child. In doing so, you also help your school. There are only advantages and to name a few:
 
*  Build a community: PTA programs give you the opportunity to meet other parents and teachers, build rapport and discuss issues that are on your mind.
*  Share your knowledge: It’s a great opportunity to put your talents and interests to good use for a good cause
*  Be a part of the solution: Help make positive changes by getting involved at your child’s school. PTA funds help provide building improvements, curriculum-based programs, technology and social events—all vital to a school and a child’s success.
*  Share your values: You’ll be demonstrating to your child the importance you place on giving back to the community and education.
* Member perks: Enjoy discounts on certain services through the Texas PTA. 

 
When you get involved with the PTA, the child who benefits the most is your own!


Who can become a PTA member?
Moms, dads, step-parents, grandparents, and teachers are all welcome. Each person only needs to contribute $6.00 per year to become a member.



If I pay the $6.00 dues and become a PTA member, do I also have to volunteer my time?
No. Becoming a member does not obligate you to volunteer. Your dues will go towards funding programs such a Science Fair, Discover Engineering Day, Family Picnic, Pride Night, and many more (see full list here), as well as additional amenities for the students, such as flexible seating, iPads, school party/holiday supplies, etc. You sign up to volunteer at events separately from when you commit to a membership.


LME is an exceptional school with great teachers. Why do I need to be involved because isn’t education their expertise?
LME is an exceptional school because parents have come together with educators to enhance our students learning environment. Parent volunteers: 

* decorate the hallways over the holidays to make school feel like a community
* sharpen pencils and make copies for teachers so they can focus on the students’ academic, emotional, and social well-being, and not on administrative tasks
* organize fun parties that make kids enjoy school
* share trade knowledge (technology buffs, entrepreneurs, gardening pros, engineers, artists are welcome to share your expertise with kids in their classrooms!) so kids can learn beyond their textbooks!

 

Also, statistics show that students learn better with engaged parents. So why NOT be involved?

LME is a public school that my kids attend for free. Why do we still need to donate money and attend fundraisers?
The state is responsible for the (wonderful) staff at LME, the curriculum, and the buildings in which our kids receive their education, but every school gets that. What the PTA does with the funds is to provide an exceptional experience of that education so our kids not only learn, but excel academically, emotionally, and socially. The PTA funds the tech devices, creative seating that provides a better learning environment, science, art, and engineering programs, and our teachers apply for grants that give us an extraordinary outdoor space that allows kids to take their education outdoors, a test kitchen that further provides learning opportunities, and many other programs that help our kids stand out among their peers.

It’s no accident that LME is an outstanding school; the funds from the PTA and our parent-volunteers help get us there.


How can I learn what the PTA does with the funds they raise?
Attend our general meetings! They occur in the evenings about once every other month. At the start of each meeting, the PTA Treasurer shares the Treasury report to show how we use the funds. We are a nonprofit organization governed by State laws, and as such, we are required to be transparent with all our transactions and meetings.


I work full time. How can I contribute my time?
LME PTA offers many volunteer opportunities throughout the year and we can always work around your schedule. There are things that you could work at from home, such as the PTA newsletter. It was created, written, and sent from a parent’s personal computer.There are many events that occur in the evenings (Family Fitness Night, Clay Night, Family Picnic) or on weekends (Pride Night, Carnival) as well.

We always welcome your help. Whether you can volunteer every week, have only a few hours throughout the year, need to help from home or only in the evenings, there are many ways to get involved.

How do I get involved?

First, become a PTA member by submitting your dues. Then, consider the programs we offer, and contact a PTA Board officer/member to offer your assistance.

You can also visit the Volunteer page to see how you can help at a school event.


What other questions do you have about the PTA? Send them to one of our Board Officers, and we’ll be sure to answer them.