FAQS

What is PTO? 

Parent/Teacher Organization – A group of parents and teachers working together to support and enhance the quality of education for your children.

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Do I have to “join”? 

No, you are a “member” as soon as your student is registered at Lava Ridge.

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Are there “dues”? 

No, being a member of PTO is absolutely free. We take pride in hosting many family events and rarely charge for our families to participate. We do fundraisers regularly and we welcome your support in these endeavors.

 

When are the meetings? 

Monthly meetings are on the first Thursday every other month starting in October at 2:30 on the Lava Ridge lawn (look for our banner and table). We will meet October, December, February, April & June.

 

Who can I contact if I want to volunteer in my child’s classroom or get involved at school? 

Given current local COVID-19 case counts, volunteers are not yet allowed in the school building. However, as soon as that changes, we will communicate it to our parent email list. Make sure we have your information so we can contact you about volunteer opportunities. Email us at lavaridgepto@gmail.com to be added to our volunteer list and get the most updated information! We'd also encourage you to follow our social media accounts here: PTO Instagram and Facebook PTO

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How can I help if I can’t attend the meetings? 

Check this PTO website for current updates: www.lavaridgepto.com. We will post our meeting notes under the meetings tab. The website also has info re: events, ongoing fundraisers; such as Yumm-Raisers, Box Tops, Amazon Smile, etc. Your continuous support with all of these things makes a big difference! Please be sure to subscribe to our website to receive updates.

 

What type of events does PTO hold? 

In the past the PTO has organized: Running Club, Family Movie Night, Family Bingo Night, Lion Dash (jog-a-thon), Read-A-Thon, Spirit Week and coordinates staff appreciation in May. We are always looking for new ideas! 

 

Where does the PTO get their general funds? 

PTO funds are raised through direct donations, fundraising events that we host (Lion Dash, Read-A-Thon, local restaurant Yumm-raisers). We also receive proceeds from programs like Amazon Smile, BottleDrop, BoxTops and Fred Meyer Community Rewards.

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What is the General Fund money used for? 

Monies raised for PTO go towards programs that we support within our school. Examples of where we spend our budget are: classroom and department grants, Scholastic News, Running Club, OBOB (Oregon Battle of the Books, school-wide family events, technology needs, purchase of new educational equipment, playground and general school improvement, staff appreciation, and more! Visit the budget tab to see our budget report

 

Do you accept direct donations? 

YES, a direct donation is the best kind because 100% of the donation goes to the PTO General Fund and is tax-deductible.