Holiday Sales and Smart Shopping Tips for PTOs and PTAs

Holiday shopping season isn’t just for families...it’s prime planning time for PTOs and PTAs, too! With sales starting earlier, lasting longer, and happening mostly online, school groups have more chances than ever to stretch their budgets and stock up for the rest of the year.

Whether you’re buying school supplies, prizes, wrapping paper, or items for upcoming school events, a little strategy now can save your PTO time, money, and stress later.  A few smart purchases during the busiest shopping season can support your school all year long. (Bonus: your PTO treasurer will thank you later!)

Think Beyond January Clearance

Yes, after‑holiday clearance is still a win—but in 2025, the best PTO deals happen all season long. Keep an eye out for:

• Black Friday & Cyber Monday: Great for bulk buys, tech accessories, and raffle prizes.
• Mid‑December sales: Retailers often mark down items before the year ends.
• Post‑holiday clearance: Ideal for décor, gift wrap, and reusable event supplies.

Tip: Designate one PTO shopper or committee to track sales so you’re not scrambling—or missing deals—later.

Shop With Your PTO’s Goals in Mind

Many PTOs are streamlining their efforts and making purchases that can do double (or triple) duty. As you shop, ask:

• Can this item be used for teacher appreciation, student incentives, and family events?
• Will it support engagement later in the year, like spirit weeks or family nights?

Buying with a plan now can reduce the need for extra fundraisers later.

What PTOs Should Buy During Holiday Sales

Holiday sales are a smart time to stock up on items PTOs use year‑round, including:

• Gift wrap, bags, bows, and boxes for holiday shops and future appreciation events (If you run a holiday shop, stock up to make gift wrapping quick and easy. Many PTOs also save these supplies for a popular “That’s a Wrap” teacher appreciation event held before winter break.)
• Decorations that can be reused for school celebrations and teacher appreciation events 
• School supplies for staff appreciation, like school supply bars
• Small prizes and incentives (games, books, DIY craft kits)
• Tech accessories like headphones, chargers, and tablet stands
• Seasonal items that can be repurposed for raffles or bingo prizes
• Storage bins (any color!) to protect event decorations, printed materials, and even the school mascot costume—label each bin with gaffer tape and a marker so future board members can quickly find what they need (and let’s be honest, can a PTO leader ever have too many bins?!)

Stick with classic or neutral items that won’t feel dated next year.

Turn Holiday Shopping Into Fundraising

Holiday season isn’t just about saving—it’s also an opportunity to raise funds! Consider pairing your shopping with seasonal fundraisers such as:

• Holiday gift shops where students shop for family members
• Winter raffles or themed baskets built with sale‑priced items
• Craft nights or winter fairs using discounted supplies
• Reading pledge drives or kindness challenges that fit the season of giving

These ideas meet families where they already are: thinking about holidays and gifts.

Use Online Tools to Save Time (and Sanity)

Most PTO shopping happens online now, so smart digital habits matter. Encourage volunteers to:

• Compare prices across multiple retailers
• Watch for free‑shipping thresholds and promo codes
• Use price‑tracking tools for higher‑cost items
• Keep shared lists or spreadsheets to avoid duplicate purchases

Less time shopping means more time focusing on what matters...your school community! 

Keep Budget and Equity in Mind

Not every PTO has room for big bulk purchases—and that’s okay. Holiday shopping can still support equity by:

• Prioritizing items that benefit the whole school
• Seeking donations or local business sponsorships
• Choosing fundraisers with low participation costs for families

Thoughtful planning helps ensure holiday efforts feel inclusive and welcoming.

Originally posted in 2020 and updated in 2025.