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PTO General Information

The purpose of the Countryside Parent/Teacher Organization is to support and enhance the educational programs at Countryside School and to strengthen the relationship between home and school.

The PTO organizes fund raisers, coordinates enrichment programs,  and plans several service learning projects at Countryside.  Examples include the Back to School Event and All-School Party in the Fall, Kids Against Hunger, Science Extravaganza and Jr. Great Books in the Winter, Food Drive and the Carnival in the Spring. All events serve to enhance a child's experience while at Countryside. PTO funds have allowed the school to purchase much needed materials and equipment (such as the Smart Boards in the classroom) and to sponsor programs such as Art Explorers, Family Math Night, Safety Patrol, Guest speakers/educators, Green Team, Science Fair and more. 

PTO MEMBERSHIP
PTO Dues are $30 per family.   Contributing to our PTO and participating in fundraisers is always optional.  Each family must do what is right for them and there are many ways to support our school.  A contribution of time is an educational asset and provides a positive role for students to see.    100% of your PTO financial support goes directly to Countryside programs and services.  Your contribution is tax deductible.  The Countryside PTO is a non-profit 501(c)(3) organization.  Our Federal ID # is:  82-0559401.

OPERATING BUDGET
PTO dues covers roughly 20% of our operating budget of $47,400 for the 2009-2010 school year.  Additional operating funds are generated from the various fundraising activities throughout the school year.  If you prefer, you may make a one time donation in lieu of participating in the fundraisers.  Additional contributions to the PTO above and beyond your dues are always welcome.  

PTO GENERAL MEETINGS
Attending a General PTO meeting is the best way to stay connected and be involved.  General PTO meetings are open to all and are held three times each school year.  Notices of the meetings appear in the Newsline and will be posted on our website.

GETTING INVOLVED WITH PTO
The PTO is a parent-driven organization and we need your participation.  Via this website, you will find multiple ways to get involved and an easy online signup process.  Weeks prior to an event, you will get a Newsline reminder when volunteer opportunities arise.  You can view all of the events and their assigned chair people on this website.