Farmland PTA

What is PTA?

PTA stands for Parent Teacher Association. The term “PTA” is commonly used to describe any parent group, and many parents, teachers, and administrators are unaware of the distinct differences between PTA and other parent organizations. All parent groups are not the same.

PTA is a not-for-profit organization and the nation’s original and premier parent involvement group in schools.

PTA has more than 23,000 local units and nearly 6 million members.

PTA units are supported by a national and state structure that provides valuable information, resources, and training.

PTA believes parents are more than fundraisers.

PTA works with parents to advocate for proper funding, leadership, and instruction for all schools and school districts.

Chartered PTA units are 501(c)(3) nonprofit organizations.

Local PTAs are eligible for discounted insurance for events that are not covered by their schools.

Local units select the priorities, programs, and activities that address the needs of their schools.

There are no mandated programs from the national or state organization, though relevant programs, helpful resources, and a network of support are provided.

Why should I join PTA?

There are many reasons to join PTA including supporting your school, helping to improve your school environment, and helping to create a richer learning experience for the children.

How much does it cost to join Farmland PTA? Where does that money go?

1- parent membership $20
2- parent membership $30
Farmland teacher $10
* pledge to volunteer to chair or serve on a committee and you are eligible for a $5 discount!

For each membership fee we pay $1.30 to the Montgomery County Council of PTAs, $1.50 to the Maryland State PTA and $2.25 to National PTA. The remainder goes to the Farmland PTA operating budget.

I’m busy, I don’t have time for PTA and my kids are just fine. Why should I join?

Even if you have little time for and/or interest in volunteering for PTA activities, your membership dues are still an essential component to the success of our PTA which, in turn, contributes to the success of your child. Your dues are applied directly toward the many fun, interesting and valuable programs, activities and academic support functions that PTA provides to all students of Farmland Elementary.

If I join PTA do I have to go to the meetings?

No!  While the PTA meetings are a great way to make your voice heard and stay in the loop with what’s going on in the PTA, meeting attendance is not a mandatory condition of membership. In fact, most PTA meetings consist of the Executive Committee members, active committee heads, certain staff and a sprinkling of other parents. We encourage you to attend meetings because as a member, you have a vote. We understand that people are busy. We have four Association meetings each school year and at each, there is a special “Parent Education” topic that might be of interest to you!

Isn’t PTA just a bunch of busybody moms with nothing better to do?

Definitely not! We need busybody dads too! (LOL) Actually, dads are a welcome and necessary PTA participant, especially in many of our large events. As for the moms, most of the moms are busy but not “busybodies.” According to allwords.com, a “busybody” is “someone who interferes with others; one who is nosy, intrusive or meddlesome.” Our volunteers are a tireless crew who unselfishly give countless hours of their time in order to coordinate, plan and execute the various PTA activities and programs. All for the betterment of our school and school community.

PTA sounds like a clique to me. Why would I want to be part of that?

Any organization, whether a PTA, a softball league, or a church choir may seem a little intimidating at first. But you can be sure that ALL are welcome to lend a hand, offer opinions, suggest changes and voice concerns. Give it a try. Come to a meeting or volunteer for a committee. We think you’ll be pleasantly surprised.

Who is in charge of our PTA?

The Farmland PTA is lead by an Executive Committee elected by the membership each spring for a one year term. Nominations take place in the Spring. Have a question? Feel free to contact a board member. That’s what we are here for.

How do I volunteer for something?

The best way to volunteer to help out is to contact the chairperson for the committee you wish to work on and let him/her know your availability and what you’d like to do. Throughout the year you’ll hear of various opportunities to help out. Some happen at school during the day, but there are many options for working parents, too. Do you have a talent or resource you can share? We’d love to hear from you!

How to I find out what is happening with Farmland PTA?

Our website provides much of the information you need to know about what is going on with Farmland PTA.  You can sign up to receive our eNews by entering your email at the top right  side of any page on the site.  We also have a Yahoo Group that you may join : Subscribe to Farmland PTA Yahoo Group.  Friend Farmland PTA on Facebook or follow us on twitter!