pta

Fun run fundraisers

50 Fun Run Themes That Go the Extra Mile

Fun runs are one of the most popular ways to raise money, and it’s easy to see why. They’re healthy, community-focused, and fairly straightforward to organize. But let’s be real: after you’ve seen a few fun run fundraisers, they can all start to blur together. A great fun run theme changes all that. In fact,…

A family movie night hosted outdoors

Hosting a Family Night at School? Don’t Forget These Rules

When the PTA president announces plans for a fall family night, all eyes turn to the treasurer to make sure it’s both memorable and financially responsible. Family nights like movie nights, talent shows, ice cream socials, and trunk or treat events are wonderful ways to bring your community together, use or raise funds, and showcase…

Halloween Fundraisers

10 Fun Halloween Fundraisers for Schools, Teams, and Clubs

Autumn is here, bringing with it pumpkins, costumes, and spooky fun. Fall also ushers in one of the most festive seasons your school, team, or club can tap into: Halloween. With the community already in the spirit of celebrating, a Halloween fundraiser is a great way to bring people together and boost support.  The good…

financial reports

What a PTO or PTA Financial Report Should Include

Financial reports tell your parent organization’s money story to board members, fellow parents, and school administrators. They demonstrate accountability and support smart decision-making by showing how fundraising dollars are being managed and what your financial outlook looks like. Most PTO and PTA boards expect to see financial reports monthly or quarterly, often presented at general…

15 Treasurer Steps for New School year

15 Treasurer To-Do’s to Start the 2025–2026 School Year Strong

As a new school year begins, it’s the ideal time for volunteer treasurers to get organized. Whether you’re supporting a PTO or PTA, booster club, sports team or another volunteer-run group, tackling a few essential financial tasks now will set your organization up for a smooth and successful year ahead. High Priority: Must-Do Items 1.…

PTO vs PTA Difference

PTA vs. PTO: What’s the difference?

This article was written in 2013 and updated on July 15, 2025, to provide the most current information about parent organizations and their structures. When your school is ready to establish a parent organization, one of the first decisions you’ll make is whether to form a PTA (Parent Teacher Association) or a PTO (Parent Teacher…

Top Challenges School Group Treasurer

Top Challenges School Group Treasurers Face, and How to Overcome Them (PTO, PTA, Booster Clubs)

So, you’ve just become the treasurer for your school’s PTO, PTA, or Booster Club. First of all — thank you! This is one of the most important volunteer roles in any school group. But if you’re feeling a little overwhelmed, you’re not alone. You might be thinking: Where do I find everything?How do I keep…

Questions for Outgoing Treasurer

13 Questions to Ask the Outgoing Treasurer of Your School or Parent Group

Taking over as treasurer for your school PTO, PTA, or booster club? One of the smartest things you can do is schedule a meeting with the outgoing treasurer. Whether you’re brand new to nonprofit finances or stepping into a familiar role, a thoughtful handoff conversation can prevent confusion and set you up for success. Here…

101 Holiday Fundraisers School

101 Holiday Fundraising Ideas for School Groups: PTOs, PTAs, Booster Clubs & Sports

The holiday season is a time of joy, giving and community. It is also a prime opportunity for PTAs, PTOs, Booster Clubs and other school groups to raise funds for their programs. With the festive atmosphere and generous spirit of the season, you can tap into a unique opportunity to boost your fundraising efforts. Why…

Robert's Rules of Order for PTO, PTA & Booster Clubs

Robert’s Rules of Order Cheat Sheet for School Group Meetings (PTO, PTA, Booster Clubs)

For many involved in school-based groups like Parent Teacher Organizations (PTO), Associations (PTA), Booster or Extracurricular Clubs, attending meetings can sometimes feel like wading through a sea of either formalities or chaos, depending on the nature of your group. The Importance of Structure When it comes to running a successful school group meeting, having a…