As the year closes, I'd also like us to share some of the events that inspired us. It doesn't have to be grand or outstanding. Please share with us an officer who went above and beyond, a child's words that struck your heart, a teacher's actions - anything big or small that inspired you this year. Thanks!

I'll kick this one off myself. Early in the year I had a simple encounter with a young boy that really hit home to me how our kids look up to us and how even the small things can make a difference. I wish I were a better writer to really convey the emotions of that moment and how I will always remember his face as he bragged on his mom - but here it is as I recorded it for our newsletter.
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She Baked a Cake

While many of our children may not understand exactly what the PTO is and what all it does, they seem to grasp the idea that “the PTO helps the school.” This was emphasized to me recently when a teacher stopped me in the hall to express appreciation for some PTO work. A little boy overheard and joined us. With a big smile on his face, he boasted, “MY mom joined the PTO. She filled out the form. She baked a cake!” He was absolutely beaming with pride as he told us about the cake his mother had sent to school (probably for a PTO teacher appreciation event), describing it in glowing detail.

Our school has wonderful volunteers who help in many ways. They assist the teachers, run events, staff book fairs, raise money --- AND they bake cakes. Big or small, every effort is important – not only towards achieving school goals but also for the example we set as role models for our own children. That particular mom might be surprised to learn that a simple cake elevated her to hero-status with her son. He was so proud! And deservedly so: his mom baked a cake – his mom helped the school.

JHB,
Thanks for the cake story. We often forget to look at the little positive things that happen throughout the year.
Right now I'm lost in planning for next year. But when I have a chance to think of fun things, I'll pass them on...
Thanks,
Jo

The VP and I had worked on the planning of Appeciation Week for months and at the March meeting we told the Tres. we wanted to spend around $250 on mugs and engraved pencils for the staff. She flipped out and could not believe we were going to spend so much! Kate and I went back to the drawing board (to avoid more outbursts) and came up with a BBQ for the staff. I talked to, filled out, and attained the approval I needed from the school and (yeah) the city (can't be too safe). The BBQ was the best thing we could have done and every staff member ate and refilled their plate to take back to class. Next Monday was the School board's public meeting and during the Principal's report she stopped to sincerly thank not the PTO but Kate and I for all our work and the planning that went into the BBQ. She then asked if we had anything to add and I said to the parents "It was easier than picking out keychains and we would love to do again, even on a budget!"
Just the words of thanks from everyone was enough to honestly bring me to tears. They do so much for my kids (even the two that are still at home)It really touched me to have 60 staff members say thank you for the lunch and for my time. Something I rarely hear.

By the way, we did spend $200 on lunch and the Treasurer was told "They did stay WAY under the $500 they were given."

When a family in our school lost their house and all of their belongings in a fire. Our pto gave them a cash donation of $200.00. Because they were new to the area with no close friends or family and were renters with no rental insurance it was devastating. They were in a shelter that was for women and children so the father could not be with them. The day after we gave them the check their youngest of four kids who is in kdg. came into the office an handed me a card. He was so happy. He told me his mom cried and then assured me that she was crying happy tears. He also said that his dad and mom had big happy smiles. He said in a real low voice,"you know that haven't smiled big in a real long time". I'm happy to report that through members of our generous community they are in a new home and getting back on their feet. I will never forget how happy that little boy was not because he was able to get new clothes but because his mom and dad "smiled big".

This one is Bitterswwet!!!

One day after I was doing some PTO paperwork in our teachers workroom as I was walking down the hallway I saw my 2nd grade daughter with a classmate at the water fountain. My daughter came up to me and gave me a big hug and smile. As I was walking away, the litte boy with her said "you are so lucky, I hardly ever get to see my mom." Now, I know for a fact his mom works and travels alot. So of course I felt really sad for him, but it reminded me of why I do all the volunteering at my daughters school. It is always for the children!!!!