What’s in it for me?

This is probably one of the questions we hear most often.  Parents really want to know what they'll get out of it. So here are some direct benefits you can feel better about:

• Get more directly involved with your child's school

• Be a role model to your peers and family - and especially your children

• Hear directly from our Principal and Teachers at monthly PTA meetings

• Hear about important changes to school programs, funding, and curriculum

• Have direct voice and access to a group that helps with school decisions (programs, activities, social events, and more)

• Build community with other parents and kids at WT Page

• Advocate for your children and other children within MCPS

• Discounts on PTA events; access to on-line membership directory; priority subscription to the Penguin Press Newsletter/Blog

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What are the PTA dues used for?

This is probably the second most frequently asked question we hear from parents.  PTA dues and funds raised from PTA fundraisers are used to pay for activities and supports for the students, families and staff of Page Elementary and to pay for minimal costs associated with operating a PTA (e.g., liability insurance, fees to the Maryland State PTA).   The Montgomery County Public Schools budget provides the core operating budget for all MCPS schools, but it does not provide for supplemental activities to enhance the students’ educational experience.  That is where PTA’s come in.  The Page PTA regularly provides supplemental funds to WT Page for activities, events and resources including: additional laptops for students to use in the classrooms; after school clubs, cultural assemblies, school book fairs, gym equipment like new balls; Winter and Valentine day dances; staff appreciation luncheons for teachers and staff; etc.  The PTA budget details the spending priorities for the PTA for the coming year, and this budget is presented to the overall PTA membership at the General PTA membership meeting for review and approval.  This is a public document that all parents and staff can see and the PTA can only make expenditures towards the items that are listed in the approved annual budget.   

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I paid my dues, is that all I have to do?

Membership dues are really just the tip of the iceberg. Volunteering is the lifeblood of our local PTA at W.T. Page. We rely and require your help in being present at events, social activities, fundraisers, and program help. The PTA is here to fill the gaps and enhance the education our children receive. We do this through programs that enrich the school experience at Page.

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Do I have to go to meetings?

No, not really - but you should.  Meetings are an optional part of PTA membership. However, meetings are provided once a month in order to provide you with information about what's going on at school, in the PTA, to provide you with special programs to help advocate for your child, and to hear your voice on the business dealings of the PTA. As a member you get to vote and support the direction of where the PTA is going and what we do for the school and students.

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Is Childcare Provided for the General PTA Meetings?

To make it easier for parents to attend, the Page PTA has arranged for childcare to be provided for our general PTA meetings by Kids After Hours – the after school program at Page ES.   We provide snacks and pizza, but you can pack your own meals as well.