From time to time someone brings up the subject of the PTO paying for teacher lounge renovations, in particular, purchasing a new refrigerator. I would like to hear what you think about this, or if you have any similar experiences to share. Thank you.

I would only consider agreeing to this if there were an ample amount of funds.And maybe this could be like a teacher appreciation gift only. PTO funds should be used strictly for the children, something like a refrigerator doesn't benefit them in anyway. The teachers could pool their own money together and buy their own refrigerator.

Our PTO purchased a refrigerator for the teacher's lounge a few years ago. It probably wouldn't have been a priority in a year that funds were tight, but this was a time when we had ample funds. No doubt the teachers got the primary benefit but it also went beyond that. We thought it was a fair bit of staff appreciation, plus the refrigerator was also used to store food for class parties and school events.

I recall we did have a discussion about the purchase. It wasn't as "automatic" as some purchases, but no one had any objections.

Our PTO spent the best $1400.00 ever last year on new tables and chairs for the teacher's lounge. By putting some of our funds toward the staff, we received better responses from them when it came time for the next event and fundraiser. They were SO appreciative, they still tell us how they love what we did! Money well spent - but we did make sure no other programs were ignored and the funds were available.

We just replaced the stove n our teacher's lounge as a Teacher Appreciation gift. Luckily we were able to purchase a "like new" one which adderssed the need but at a significant savings.