About Us

What is PTO?

PTO stands for Parent-Teacher Organization. We are a non-profit organization dedicated to supporting Central Elementary by providing fun and memorable events for our students and funding various needs within our school.

Who is Eligible to Participate in the PTO?

Anyone that supports the care of a Central Elementary student is eligible to attend our meetings and participate in our events. Even though our title states parents specifically, our organization invites grandparents and other guardians who actively supports a student's education to join us.

What does PTO do exactly?

We host a variety of social events throughout the year, like Welcome Back Night, Trunk or Treat and other similar-type events. We also fund the classrooms with various grade-specific needs, such as funding for field trip buses, Muffins with Mom supplies, K-1 snacks, office-type supplies and numerous other things. There are quite a few other things that we support and fund, as well, such as plastic forks and knives to the cafeteria. Most people don't know that the cutlery provided by the school lunch company, Sodexo, is only available to students purchasing a lunch. PTO keeps a stash on-site for those kiddos who forget to pack one with their lunch from home.

Can my kids come to a PTO meeting?

Yes! So can moms, dads, grandparents and anyone else involved in the family's daily routine. We will have coloring sheets available for the kids during the meeting, however, parents are encouraged to bring quiet entertainment that is preferred by their child(ren), such as tablets (with headphones) and books.

I don't have a lot of time, can I still support PTO?

Yes! Even if you aren't available to volunteer your time, there are a number of ways you can still support our PTO. Attending our restaurant nights, shopping on Amazon Smile, donating to the Clothing Donation box and shopping with your Schnucks escrip card are all great and effective ways to help us out. See our page titled 5 Easy Ways to Help for more information on how to contribute.

That said, in order for PTO to be successful, we do need parents willing to volunteer. There are some parents who are regular volunteers, but that is not the requirement. Families are encouraged to consider volunteering just one hour within the school year. It really does make a difference!