Howdy, Parents, Teachers and Caregivers:
 
Can you believe it’s almost February?  What a great PTO year we’ve had so far.  Due to our early and successful fundraising, we have been able to disburse funds to teachers for fieldtrips and we’ve planned enrichment for every grade in our school.  We’ve had informative programming and a wonderful Star of the Week program.  We have an informative website. We are in great organizational shape as a 501c3, incorporated, charitable organization.   We have done so much, and most importantly, we are known as a welcoming, open group.   

As we near the halfway school year point, we need to start planning for the rest of the year.  Here are some tasks that need our attention:
 
Spring Fundraiser - Got any good ideas for a FUNdraiser for this Spring?  We’ve done math-a-thons and read-a-thons, bulb sales and garage sales.  I’d like to get some ideas generated so we can consider them at our February PTO meeting.  A Spring fundraiser will help ensure that we will have some funds in the bank for next years enrichment planning.  Please email me at kristinaiello@roadrunner.com  with your ideas.  
 
Teacher and Staff Appreciation Week - For Parents Only: Our teachers and staff loved the week we planned for them last year, with a new breakfast menu each day and wonderful notes from their students.  This year, Teacher and Staff Appreciation Week is scheduled for May 4-10.  Let’s start planning now for another special week honoring those who do so much for our kids.     
 
Bulletin Board - HELP!  Anyone interested and willing to help keep up the bulletin board?   Please let me know if you can help make our lobby bulletin board as vibrant and informative as our PTO! 
 
Sea Dogs:  Mark your calendar for HDES PTO night at the Sea Dogs Game on May 9!!  This has become such a cherished HDES tradition and our kids now look forward to every Spring.
 
Thinking About Leadership for Next Year - Elections are not until May, but it’s not too early to start thinking about taking on a leadership role in the PTO for next year.    The PTO is a dynamic, diverse and wonderful organization and I encourage you to consider a leadership role for next year.  
 
Thanks for all you do,

Kristin