Whether you are a kid or an adult, "joining" anything can be scary! Here are some of the more common myths/fears about PTO.
Most of us believed one or more of these before we became PTO members.
Myth #1.
Only moms & teachers belong in the FHES PTO.
NO NO NO!! Thankfully, it's not only moms and school professionals who take an interest kids these days!!
Moms, teachers and school staff DO naturally form the backbone of any PTO— BUT the strongest groups ALSO have many fathers, grandparents, aunts, uncles, neighbors and community leaders who are invested in the youngest members of society.
Bottom line, if you care about kids in our community, you belong with us!
Myth #2:
If I join the PTO, I will have to volunteer.
ABSOLUTELY NOT! Every person has a different capacity to give and be involved. And your capacity to volunteer will change from one year to the next. Determine what you can joyfully give —make a plan, and give that with your whole heart.
Myth #3:
I will have to take a board position— or lead a committee— if I join the PTO.
NOPE! Some of our most valued PTO friends have never held an elected (or appointed) position. You do not have to be a leader to be an important part of PTO. Your beautiful smile and enthusiastic support may be just what we need right now to keep going!
Myth #4:
My PTO membership never expires. I only have to join once.
NOPE. PTO memberships are an annual thing— good for one school year (meaning one fall and one spring semester). Memberships need to be renewed each year. If you choose to enroll online, your username and password will make it a snap to login and re-enroll next year. Just a thought :)
Myth #5:
I don’t have the time to join the PTO.
At its most basic level, "joining PTA" is not about volunteering. It's about advocacy. Your decision to purchase a PTO membership (and stay current on what is happening with kids in our area) is significant all by itself. You can also make be a great encouragement by offering financial support.
Myth #6:
The FHES PTO doesn't need me specifically.
You have more power than you know to make life better for the people around you. You have gifts and abilities that are entirely yours to give. When you give yourself to the people around you, all of us are richer for it! The first step is to show up and be willing to engage.
Myth #7:
The PTO is only for stay-at-home parents with nothing else to do.
The FHES PTO is made up of men and women who have a wide range of daily commitments. Some work 60 hours a week, some are retired. But most juggle work, bills, household chores, kids, sports, and homework, just like you!
Myth #8:
My child’s life will be the same —whether or not I join the PTO.
UNTRUE. For at least 2 reasons.
1— If everyone felt this way, all the wonderful activities and supports your child enjoys because of PTO would suddenly vanish! and
2— Research shows that parental involvement within the child’s school increases their academic achievements and decreases behavior issues. Not only does membership put you in direct communication with other parents and teachers, it shows your child that you are interested and invested in their educational experience.
Myth #9:
The PTO already has all the help they need.
It's probably no surprise that the more volunteers Forest Hill Elementary School has, the better. More volunteers means less work for each person — which means everyone has more time to enjoy events with their families! Everyone likes to be asked, but please don't wait for an invitation to show us what you have to contribute. We need, and want, your help– whether we know it yet or not!
Myth #10:
I have an awesome idea, but the PTO wouldn't be interested.
Nothing could be further from the truth!
New ideas, and new friends keep the FHES PTO fresh and exciting! Let's hear what you've got!
