Frequently Asked Questions
What is GIA PTO?
PTO stands for Parent Teacher Organization. The GIA PTO is a nonprofit group comprised of
parents, teachers, and staff dedicated to make GIA a great place for our kids to thrive. The PTO
works to encourage interaction between family and school, serve as a source of support, and
work with teachers, staff, and the community at large to improve our children’s educational
experience. The PTO works very closely with the school administration in all its projects.
What does the PTO do?
The PTO organizes special events such as the Fall Festival, teacher/staff appreciation, and fundraisers just to name a few.
Who can join PTO?
Any parent/ guardian of a current student of GIA as well as all current faculty and staff. Grandparents may also join. Research makes clear that increasing parent involvement is a huge positive for any school.
How do I become a member?
All you have to do is complete the Membership Form and pay the yearly registration dues of
$10.00 per family. You can also sign up at any in person event where the PTO is present. It is never too late to join!
Do I have to pay for each child?
No, your dues cover all children in your immediate household.
What are the benefits of membership?
First it gives you a voice! Your membership entitles you to vote at all meetings on PTO
business. You may desire to volunteer to help with our many events throughout the year.
Volunteering is encouraged but NOT required. In a way just paying your dues helps us fund
programs that enhance your child’s learning experience. Joining the PTO lets you help us enrich
the student’s academic life.
What programs does PTO fund and support?
We sponsor events and activities for the teachers, staff, students, families and the community.
When and Where are the PTO Meetings?
Meetings are held the third Tuesday, via Zoom at 7:00 PM.
Why should I attend PTO Meetings?
It benefits your child(ren). In doing so, you also help our school. The PTO is a great opportunity to become involved in your child’s education at GIA.
Get connected! There is no better way to get involved in what is happening or is going to
happen at GIA.
Stay informed! By getting involved at GIA, you will be part of the team helping to make
positive changes.
Tap into a network! Come and share ideas, concerns, and experiences with other parents
and educators in the community. PTO functions are an opportunity to meet other parents
and teachers, build rapport and be informed.
Be a role model! By becoming active in the PTO, you will be demonstrating to your child the
importance you place on education. Studies show children do better in school when parents
are involved.
Speak Up! PTO offers a forum for exchanging ideas as well as making suggestions. PTO can
be a way for you to more effectively express change at GIA.
How can I make a difference at GIA?
The PTO believes that parent involvement is an essential ingredient to a student’s success. We
strongly encourage all parents and faculty to join the PTO. Joining the PTO is a great way for
you to show support for your child and to ensure he/she receives the best education possible.
We encourage you to get involved! You can attend the PTO meetings, read the minutes,
volunteer your time, support the fundraising events, give your thoughts, jump in and help,
ask questions! Your input is important to us.
How can I help?
Please consider helping in any way that fits your schedule. There are many things that you can
do to help. Perhaps what works best is to show your support through making a financial
contribution. Maybe you can dedicate several hours to a special event or fundraiser. The
amount of time you spend participating in PTO activities is up to your discretion. The
important thing is that you become involved in your child’s educational experience. You may
contact the PTO or any of our Officers and let them know you are interested in
volunteering and they will gladly help you find the perfect place. Even if the school year is
underway, it is never to late to get involved! GIA needs you!
How does the PTO acquire the necessary funds to sponsor so many projects?
Fundraisers and donations. The events like the Fall Festival are planned to raise money to fund many projects in school. Your support of these events is vital to our success as a PTO!
What happens to the money raised by the PTO?
Monies are used to support the named population and pay PTO related bills like the PTO insurance, PTBoard (our messaging platform), Zoom (we currently use a donated version).
How do I become an officer on the PTO Board?
When a position becomes vacant, the Board Search Committee will announce the vacancy and run an election. The winner of that election takes office immediately.