What is the PTA? #
PTA stands for Parent Teacher Association.
The Abingdon Elementary PTA is an active and enthusiastic group of parents and teachers working together to give our students the best possible educational and social experience during elementary school.
What does the PTA do? #
For over 70 years, Abingdon’s PTA has supported Abingdon Elementary and the surrounding community by:
- Educational Programs: Providing extra learning opportunities to children by organizing after-school classes, extra-curricular activities, and other programs
- Community Relations: Raising funds to provide food, clothing, and school supplies to families who cannot afford them
- Events: Organizing events that bring the community together
- Staff Appreciation: Showing appreciation for Abingdon staff with acts of kindness and generosity
What type of role can I contribute as a member of the PTA? #
There are roles for everyone, and it depends on your interests and skillset:
- Bilingual: We can always use help translating our emails and other communications.
- Organizer: You can lead a committee or help plan an event.
- Technically savvy: You can update and manage our website.
- Financially savvy: You can review our credit card statements and review our finances. (Or serve as Treasurer!)
- Just want to participate: We have several events throughout the year and can use volunteers. Check out the roles listed here, and then fill out our volunteer form.
Does it cost money to be a part of the PTA? #
Annual membership dues are $10 per individual or $20 per family. However, you do not have to be a dues-paying member to volunteer for the PTA or to attend meetings. Membership is required if you want to vote during meetings or be a PTA officer.
Dues can be submitted online, or via check or cash if necessary. Click here for information about paying dues.
Do I have to be a parent to join the PTA? #
No. Everyone — parents & guardians, educators, students and other community members — is invited to join our PTA.
Our bylaws state that, “Membership … shall be open, without discrimination, to anyone who believes in and supports the mission and purposes of National PTA.”
How often are PTA meetings held? #
General membership meetings are held once a month while school is in session, typically on the second Tuesday of each month. We recommend that as many parents and staff attend as possible; however, we publish meeting minutes after each meeting on this website, which we recommend reading if you are unable to attend our meetings.
How can I submit a topic to be addressed for a PTA meeting? #
You can email the PTA at [email protected].
What does the PTA do with the money raised from fundraisers? #
PTA funds are used to support the school and the community, including:
- Securing vendors, food, and rental equipment for events
- Support staff appreciation activities and supplies
- Supplies for educational programs, including the Abingdon community garden and the school play
- Contributions to charity drives
I am not English speaking; how can I speak/participate in another language? #
- Our meetings and our website are all accessible in other languages.
- There are many volunteer opportunties which do not require English fluency, especially helping with events. Fill out our volunteer form or email [email protected] (in whatever language you’d like) if you are interested in volunteering with us.
How does the PTA communicate with parents? #
- All of our communication methods are listed here. We especially recommend subscribing to our e-mail newsletter, the Cardinal Courier.