What is the PTO?

PTO stands for Parent Teacher Organization. The goal of our PTO is to enhance the total educational experience for our Hines Elementary students and their families. Our membership is made up of parents and staff at Hines Elementary, and our primary objective is to support our students and the whole school community through volunteerism and fundraising. We look forward to a successful year and the positive impact our PTO will make on our students' education and experience at Hines.

What is the purpose of the PTO and what does it do?

The purpose of the Parent Teacher Organization, or PTO, is to support the school both financially and physically in order to enhance the educational environment at school. The PTO raises funds throughout the year to pay for a large variety of programs, events, and activities. In addition, the PTO organizes and supports these efforts with its many volunteers.

Why should I join the PTO?  

Membership in the PTO helps to support Hines Elementary and its students. Membership fees go directly to the PTO budget to support the school and therefore our students' educational experience. It includes the benefit of being able to vote on decisions being made at our General PTO meetings and first access to register for all PTO events. The yearly cost is $10 per family and includes early access to PTO events and exclusive access to our electronic Student Directory. PTO membership is the only way to gain access to the Student Directory. 

How do I join?

Click here for more information to join the PTO!

When are the meetings?  Who can attend the meetings?  Where are they held?

PTO meetings are held monthly on campus at Hines. They typically fall on the first or second Thursday of the month at 1pm.  Anyone may attend, but only PTO members may vote. Click here for detailed information regarding PTO meetings. 

How can I help/volunteer?

The PTO has many volunteer opportunities with varying levels of time commitment throughout the year to accommodate different schedules. We welcome any and all help! In addition, there may be opportunities to volunteer/help in your child’s classroom. These opportunities are usually coordinated through your room parent or teacher. Click here for all the details regarding all volunteer sign ups that are currently available.

In accordance with Conroe ISD policy and to ensure a safe environment for our students, all volunteers will need to pass a background check. Please visit https://apps.conroeisd.net/volunteer/ to complete the form. You will receive an email once the background check is complete. 

How does the PTO raise funds?  How is the money spent?

The PTO raises funds in two ways: Fundraisers and Donations, both of which are explained in more detail below.

Fundraisers:
The PTO has two fundraising events per year - one in the fall (Boosterthon) and one in the spring (Harlem Wizards Basketball Game).
 
Funds raised from these fundraisers are used to pay for a variety of things, including: field trips for all students, technology equipment, campus enhancements, staff development and training, educational software and licensing, educational experiences, and much more. Usage of funds raised from Fundraisers is determined annually and based on the school’s needs at that time as determined by the Principal. 
 
All other events/activities coordinated by the PTO are done as a courtesy to the students, parents, and/or staff and are not intended to raise money or contribute to the PTO's overall budget.
 
Donations:
The PTO also receives funds through donations. Items that fall under this category include: Corporate Sponsors, Partner Share, Spirit Events, and PTO Membership fees.
 
Funds received from donations are used to pay for things such as: Staff Appreciation, Counselor Programs, Educational Materials and Tools (beyond what the district provides), Jingle Jam, Spirit Wear, Book Fair, Maintenance and Enhancements to the school grounds (beyond what the district provides), Fees / Expenses associated with Banking, PTO Website and PTO Insurance.

What is the PTO’s Budget?  Can I view it?

The budget is reviewed each year by the PTO Board and principal in order to determine the needs for our school. The budget is managed by the PTO Treasurer and updated frequently throughout the year to adjust actual income and expenses as they occur. Any line item changes to the budget must be voted on and approved by the PTO Board. PTO members can receive an updated budget report at each month's PTO meeting.

Do we have a student directory?  How do I get a copy?

We have an online Student Directory, and the only way to gain access to the online directory is by joining the PTO.  Parents have the ability to add their student(s) contact information into the directory if they choose to do so. Only families with a paid PTO membership ($10) can gain access to the online directory, which is a great way to connect with friends and classmates for party invitations, playdates, etc. Our online directory can even be printed at home if you prefer a hard copy.

How do I submit my child’s information for inclusion in the student directory?

Create a login here on ptboard.com so you can enter/manage what information you want included in the online directory. Note: you can join ptboard.com and submit your information for the directory without becoming a paid PTO member; however, you will only be able to access the directory yourself if you are a paid member.