How To Articles Archive

Step-by-step instructions and tips on key PTO and PTA topics, including fundraisers, budgets and bylaws, playgrounds, and more. Find more resources and articles in the Topics A-Z.

• How To Plan a School Field Day - Tips for organizing and running a day of outdoor play, with involvement from parents and teachers.
• How To Run a Successful Family Night - Make your School Family Night a hit with these planning tips, ideas for themes, and more.
• How To Run a PTO Garage Sale - Valuable step-by-step tips and advice for a smooth, profitable PTO or PTA garage sale.
• How To Be a Successful PTO President - Tips and advice for new PTO and PTA presidents.
• Get Your PTO Up and Running - Follow this road map for how to create a successful PTO or PTA. We outline key steps to success, beyond the organizational basics.
• How To Take Meeting Minutes - What to write down and what not to, plus tips to make the job easier.
• How To Choose a Fundraiser - There’s more to fundraising strategy than finding the biggest profit. We outline what you need to know to pick a program that’s right for your group.
• How To Choose a Fundraising Company - When it comes to fundraisers, one size doesn’t fit all. Finding a vendor that will help meet your school’s specific needs and goals is key.
• How To Write PTO Bylaws - Straightforward guidelines to help you write bylaws for your PTO or PTA.
• How To Write a Press Release - Get more publicity for your next event with these simple steps for contacting the media.
• Switching From PTA to PTO - Key steps if your group is planning to change from a PTA to an independent PTO.
• How To Start a PTO - Step-by-step tips for getting a new parent group up and running at your school.
• Procedures Book: Your PTO's Instruction Manual - How to create policies and procedures books for your leaders. This tool can make a big difference for your group.
• How To Inspect Your Playground - Playgrounds take a lot of wear and tear. Here's what to look for to make sure your playground remains a safe environment for kids.
• How To Manage Your Budget - These basic bookkeeping procedures will help you keep your PTO budget in order.
• How To Choose School Performers - Enrichment activities and school performers bring fresh insight and perspectives. Find the best fit for your school.