Frequently Asked Questions
How do I contact the PTO?
You can contact us using the form on the Contact the PTO page. As we are volunteers, please allow up to 72 hours, not including weekends or school breaks, for a response. During school breaks or weekends, please allow additional time until school is back in session. If you need information about an event, especially close to or on the event day, please contact the event chairperson directly using the information on the event flyer.
Where do PTO dues go?
PTO funds support numerous events throughout the school year. You can check our Events page for examples. While many events have an attendance fee, we strive to keep costs low while providing supplies, food, and decor. Additionally, the PTO provides pizza for the entire school, including staff, for the Halloween party, holiday party, and end-of-year party, and ice cream after pizza at the end-of-year party. We also contribute financially every year to the sixth-grade committee, provide frames and decor for kindergarten graduation, provide inflatables for field day, provide water and popsicles on field day, provide T-shirts for every student and staff member for field day, fund school-wide assemblies (in coordination with Mrs. Mansfield), supply books for teachers, support special school projects at the request of teachers, staff, and the school principal, help support school clubs such as our Environmental Club, decorate the gym for the holidays, help provide candy for trunk-or-treat participants, and more. We also provide two annual scholarships for graduating SBHS seniors who are former LMS alumni. With the support of additional donations, we fund Teacher Appreciation Week and various staff appreciation days throughout the year.
What does membership get me?
As a paid member, you gain access to the member directory with contact information for all parent members, access to our members-only Facebook page, the ability to volunteer at or behind the scenes of events, and the opportunity to be considered for a room parent role. Plus, you get to say you're part of a community that’s 100% focused on supporting your children and their school!
Do I have to volunteer?
No, being a PTO member does not require volunteering. We understand that everyone's schedules and responsibilities vary, and we would never make membership contingent on the ability to volunteer. However, if you're interested in helping at events or behind the scenes, we’d love to have you. Please reach out using the contact form to indicate your interest and availability!
Can I volunteer if I work?
Absolutely. Many of our volunteers and board members work! We offer many opportunities for working parents to volunteer on their own terms and according to their schedules by assisting with tasks behind the scenes. If you're interested, please contact us.
Why are class parents also collecting dues, and are they separate from PTO dues?
Yes, PTO dues and class dues are separate. The PTO funds many activities, but class dues cover extras like snacks, drinks, paper goods, crafts/games, and favors for the kids at class parties.
What if there’s a financial hardship for dues or class parent contributions?
What if there’s a financial hardship for dues or class parent contributions?
We do not want financial hardships to be a burden. Please contact us at ptolongmemorial@gmail.com, and we will ensure that your membership remains intact despite any hardships.
Will my children be able to participate in events or assemblies if I don’t pay my PTO membership and class dues?
Absolutely. We support every student. However, if it’s within your means, we encourage you to pay your PTO dues and class dues so we can continue to offer all the great opportunities we have in the past—and more!
Check the Upcoming Events tab on this website, look out for emails from the central office containing attachments with PTO information, be sure to check your child's bag for any flyers sent home, and follow us on Facebook!