What is PTO?

PTO stands for Parent-Teacher Organization. At Katy Elementary School, the PTO works with the school's administration, teachers, and staff to:

• Support the school staff in and outside of the classroom
• Provide educational tools and resources that enrich the educational environment
• Create lasting memories for our children
• Support and show appreciation for all teachers and staff
• Foster a sense of community among school families
• Assist in creating a positive learning experience of our students
• Raise needed funds for school use

What does the PTO do?

The PTO works tirelessly behind the scenes to provide the extras that benefit your children every single day. We raise money every school year for classroom supplies, events, technology and equipment...And we have FUN doing it. 

Benefits of KES PTO:

The KES PTO is very fortunate to have such generous donations and contributions to our fundraising efforts from parents, teachers and community partners.  Because of this support, Katy Elementary leads the way in programs and curriculum support in Katy ISD.  We are committed to giving at KE students a well-rounded educational experience.  Our PTO school programs are funded 100% by KES PTO for which we are extremely proud.  We hope you are, too!

This outlines how your PTO funds are spent to supplement our children's experience at KE.  These funds supplement Katy ISD curriculum with educational opportunities and items that are not provided by the district.

How do we decide where to spend our money?

The KES PTO President and Treasurer meet before the beginning of the school year to create a budget that itemizes income and expenses for the new school year.  This budget enables that the PTO is held accountable for all spending and also guides our committees to ensure that overspending does not occur.

We look at past budgets, actual income and expenditures, and projected costs for any new programs being introduced.  We also enlist the help of parents, teachers and the KE Administration to ensure that we consider all aspects of the learning environment at Katy Elementary.

Once the budget is created, it is presented to the PTO Executive Board for discussion, and then the budget is presented to the PTO General Membership for approval.

Special Projects:

We are conservative when budgeting income from fundraisers to avoid a mid-year budget deficit.  This conservative approach often leads to a budget surplus, and the budget committee discusses and presents a plan for these funds that is voted on by members of our PTO.  In the past, this surplus was spent on what we call "special projects."  These projects are a wish list of capital items that are not typically funded by KISD, but would be a great addition to the learning environment at our school.

Transparency:

All PTO members are entitled to copies of all financial statements and budgets.  Please contact KE Treasurer or KE President if you have any questions, to request a copy of the budget and/or past special projects lists, or if you want to get involved.

Join the PTO:

You can join the PTO right here on our website. Dues are $10 per member for the year. The goal is to have 100% participation. When you become a member you get access to our online School Directory which is super beneficial when trying to send out birthday party invites etc. You also help provide a lot of needed items for the classrooms.

What Events Need My Help?

Each year, the PTO sponsors a number of events for our children. Volunteer Sign-Ups available online. Once you're signed up as a volunteer, our VIPS coordinator and committee chairpersons will send out emails when help is needed.

Do I Have to Volunteer at Every Event?

NO! Any time you can give to benefit our students and school is valuable and always appreciated.

What Are the Benefits to My Child?

There can’t be a Parent Teacher Organization without PARENTS. It is YOUR feedback, fresh ideas, and suggestions that enable our organization to grow and continue to bring great educational, fun events to our children.