About Us

4 Great Reasons to Join the PTO

🎒 Your Kids Benefit: Research shows that when parents are involved at school, kids perform better academically and feel more supported.
🍎 Our School Thrives: We provide vital resources and appreciation that keep our teachers motivated and our school atmosphere positive and caring.
🤝 Make Real Connections: Get to know teachers, staff, and other parents. It’s the easiest way to build a community of friends right in your neighborhood.
💖 It’s Good for You! Volunteering is a rewarding, fun way to socialize, share your talents, and actively improve your child’s daily environment.

Setting the Record Straight - Mythbusters

⏰ Myth 1: "I don't have enough time, and I work during the week."

The Fact: Any amount of time helps! You do not have to volunteer for everything to be a valued member. You can sign up for a single 30-minute shift at one event, help prep materials from home on the weekend, or simply share your input via email. There is absolutely no minimum time requirement.

👶 Myth 2: "I can't attend meetings because of my busy schedule (or because I have younger kids at home)."

The Fact: We welcome the whole family! Kids are always welcome to come with you to meetings. They can hang out, color, read, or play quietly in the other half of the library while we chat. If the meeting time just doesn't work for you, you can still stay completely in the loop by reading the meeting minutes online and emailing us your ideas anytime.

💵 Myth 3: "I have to pay dues to join, and it's probably a closed social club anyway."

The Fact: Membership is 100% free and open to everyone. There are no fees or sign-ups required—since your child attends Countryside, you are automatically a member. We are a warm, welcoming group of parents and teachers, and we actively want and need fresh perspectives and new voices!

History

The Countryside Elementary School PTO (parent teacher organization) was founded in 1988, and became an official 501(c)3 nonprofit organization in 2010. It is different from a PTA (parent teacher association) in that there are no membership dues or fees.

Legal Bylaws