Frequently Asked Questions About the PTA

What is the PTA?


The Parent Teacher Association or PTA works on behalf of public schools, children and families. At ECC and other schools, PTA volunteers work to improve the education, health and welfare of children. The ECC PTA works to offer enrichment programs to students and support to families. PTA is open to anyone. Members pay dues to support school programs, and  local, state, and national efforts to improve the education of all children. In return, members receive valuable resources, information and training, and know they are enriching their child’s school experiences.

 Why should I become a PTA member?

·         Your PTA membership supports a variety of enrichment programs that your child participates in school and after school — including math, art and science offerings. These programs would likely not be offered at ECC without funding and volunteer support. See PTA Membership Form for more information.

·         PTA members only receive a Student Directory in the fall. Extra directories are sold later in the year to PTA members only.

·         This year, receive a certificate for a free child Legoland admission with a paid admission as our thanks.

Where do my PTA-donated dollars go?

·         Student enrichment programs: Arts Attack, Math 24, Science Nights, Everyone-A-Reader, performing arts, Study Buddies, Red Ribbon Week, etc.

·         Teacher support: Classroom supply funds, mini-grants for teachers, project materials

·         School needs: Equipment, such playground equipment, office equipment, sound system, etc.

·         Family programs: Ice Cream Social and other Dad’s Club events, Variety Show, parent education

·         Communications: Weekly ENews email newsletter, PTA website, event reminders

What is NOT covered under my PTA membership:

·         PTA membership does NOT overlap with the ECC Fund, which is a separate fund to pay for technology, music instruction and science consultants, and other expenditures as recommended by the School Site Council.

·         PTA Membership does NOT require you to attend meetings or sign up for volunteer activities. 

Why is the PTA offering a one-time donation option?

 A large number of respondents in the spring PTA survey said they prefer to make ONE  donation at the beginning of the year instead of participating in separate fund-raisers. To respond to that request, PTA is offering an optional one-time annual donation. We are suggesting a minimum of $125 to cover student enrichment, family and teacher-support programs. If you choose to make a one-time donation, you may write “Made one-time annual donation” on any fund-raising materials you receive. Unfortunately, we are unable to remove individuals from mass distribution of fund-raising materials.

 Why does PTA hold fundraisers in addition to membership?

The Membership Drive alone does not raise enough funds to cover the many and varied programs PTA offers. Fund-raisers are offered to supplement the Membership Drive. This year, we will host:

·        Promotional product sales, such as school apparel (supports various PTA programs)

·         Winter and Spring Book Fairs (supports Media Center)

·         Spring Jog-A-Thon (funds Playground Partners)

·         Spring Strawberry Sales (to fund Arts Attack kiln needed next year)

·         Restaurant Nights (funds various programs)

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