FAQ

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

• • What does PTA stand for?

    • PTA stands for Parent Teacher Association.

    • Garden Gate PTA is part of the State and National PTA organizations that support the cause of public education.

    • Garden Gate PTA is a group of parents, teachers and caregivers that want to help our children receive the most from our Garden Gate School education.

  • When does the PTA meet?

    • The Garden Gate PTA meets once a month, usually the first Thursday of the month. We meet at 2:15pm in the Staff Lounge for about 50 minutes. EVERYONE is invited and welcome to attend any of the PTA meetings. Attendance is completely optional.

  • Who can come to the PTA meetings?

    • Everyone is welcome at any meeting. You do not have to be a member to come to the meetings, however only members are allowed to vote.

  • What happens at a PTA meeting and what is the attitude?

    • The PTA gathers to discuss and review the upcoming events and what needs to be done, approve expenditures, review the budget and discuss any issue that is brought to the attention of the PTA. The PTA community is light hearted and friendly. If there are difficulties, we discuss them with open minds and hearts. Visitors are always welcome. You might even make some new friends!

  • What is the benefit of being a member?

    • Parents participation plays a significant role in the educational and social growth of our children. The PTA is one way to make a difference at the school. You can have a voice in the activities at Garden Gate, how the PTA spends its budget, and what we focus on.

  • If I am a PTA member, do I have to do volunteer work?

    • No, volunteering is completely optional. Everyone has different skills, desires, comfort levels, and family and work commitments. You are not required to volunteer but we want you to feel WELCOME to volunteer if you would like to, and in the way that fits into your schedule.

  • Why does the PTA need money?

    • The PTA pays for a lot of the extra programs at Garden Gate. We pay for aides in the classroom, Spectra Art and the librarian, and support part of the Music Teachers' salary for K-3rd grade, . We purchase needed equipment for the teachers, funds the emergency supplies for the school, and programs such as Project Cornerstone.

    • The PTA hosts events such as Book Fairs, Fall Celebration, International Night / STEAM Night / Book Exchange Night, Literacy Night. Therefore, the PTA raises money through Direct Donations to enhance the school environment.

  • Can I still donate or give a different amount for the Direct Donations?

    • Yes, You can give any amount at any time for the Direct Donations Campaign.

  • What does CEEF stand for and what does it do?

    • CEEF stands for Cupertino Educational Endowment Foundation and is a community foundation which seeks to create opportunities for involvement and giving for the perpetual educational benefit of students in the Cupertino Union School District. The Cupertino Educational Endowment Foundation was established in 1984 to provide a stable source of income for educational programs the Cupertino Union School District could not otherwise offer through public funds alone. This past decade, CEEF is proud to have been able to grant some $7.2 million in support of 26 educational programs which have benefited every student, teacher, and administrator in the district. CEEF areas of focus have included teacher training and instructional materials, the visual and performing arts, and pilot programs.

  • Who do I ask if I have more questions?

    • You can ask any PTA board member. We would be happy to answer your questions. You can also email us at:

      • President - ptapresidentatgg@gmail.com

      • Membership & Direct Donation - gardengateptadonation@gmail.com

      • Reflections - gardengate.reflections@gmail.com

      • Project Cornerstone - gardengate.projectc@gmail.com