PTO stands for Parent Teacher Organization, which is a nonprofit group comprised of parents, family members, teachers, and school staff members dedicated to improving the educational experience of students. PTOs give parents and teachers the opportunity to work together to supplement and enrich the educational experience. They can organize events and activities such as snack carts, teacher/staff appreciation days, spirit shirts, school dances, teacher/student supplies, after-school clubs, holiday student pictures, and more. PTOs can also be a wonderful resource for community outreach and support, such as organizing parties to fill backpacks with school supplies, giving trees during the holidays, or weekend snack packs of non-perishable food items for students who receive free or reduced-priced meals during the week.
PTOs are generally not covered by a schools exempt status, but they can apply for state tax exemption. Once approved, a PTO may buy tax-free goods and services that further the organizations exempt purpose. PTOs that are affiliated with their national organization should submit Form AP-207, Texas Application for Exemption - Educational Organization, and a letter from the parent organization confirming the affiliation. PTOs that are not members of the national organization should complete the same application and provide a copy of the organizations governing document.
Joining a PTO can benefit both the child and the school. Parents who join the PTO of a school are role models for their children because they are demonstrating to their children the great importance of education in their lives. By volunteering with the PTO, parents can put their skills and hobbies to use for a noble cause - their child and all children in the community. PTOs can also be a way for parents to more effectively suggest change at their childs school and witness improvement by being part of the solution and helping make positive changes.
