Fundraising Newsletter

As we recognize that the PTO is kicking off the school year by asking you to donate a substantial amount of money to our largest fundraiser, Bancroft Bucks, we wanted to take the time to share some important PTO budget information with you, and to thank you for your continued support.

Where Does the PTO Spend Its Funds?  

• Cultural Arts. The Cultural Arts chairs work with classroom teachers to arrange for experiences for children that coincide with their classroom learning, and for the school as a whole. For example, this year, grades will have in-person visits from the Discovery Museum, the Penguin Lady, the McAuliffe Traveling Planetarium, and all students will enjoy an Extreme Science experience.
• Annual Classroom Support.
  • Each class (27 in K to 5) receives funds to spend as they wish, with the principal’s approval. Past purchases have included Scholastic news subscriptions, book bins, and other classroom supplies.
  • The principal receives funds to assist throughout the year.
  • The specialists (i.e. gym, art, music, media, special education, maker space, etc.) are each given an annual budget to help with their specific needs.
• Field Trips. The PTO pays for ALL admission costs and related expenses for field trips in order to ensure that every student gets at least one amazing field trip each year.
• Teacher Gifts and Luncheons. The PTO funds a gift for all 100+ employees during teacher appreciation week in May.  Further, the PTO organizes four luncheons a year funded with parent donations and contributions from the PTO to show all of our children’s educators how much we appreciate their dedication to our children.

• Special Requests. Last year, the PTO was able to fund special requests including new playground equipment and a toaster oven and microwave for the staff room.
• Other Curriculum Programs. The PTO helps fund other programs, including the Science Fair, Student Council, Kindergarten orientation, and the 5^th grade Moving Up Ceremony annually. 
• Administrative Matters. Although not exciting, in order for the PTO to exist, we pay annual filing fees, keeping our entity in good standing, and insurance needed to host events.
• Classroom Supplies. Rather than bothering parents with unpredictable requests for items such as tissues throughout the year, the PTO keeps the school fully stocked in these necessary sanitary items, and replenishes them as needed. 
• Scholarships for Students in Need. The PTO provides subsidies and scholarships to children who could not otherwise afford to attend events or programs.
• “Care and Concern”. As our teachers and staff experience certain joys, such as having a baby, or certain losses, such as a death in the family, the PTO sends them a small gift to remind them that we care.
• Cost-Neutral Activities. The PTO also coordinates additional programs and social events that are cost-neutral and do not take advantage of fundraising.  These include:
  • Classes through Bancroft’s Learning Lab before- and after-school program;
  • Social events such as the Spring Picnic, and
  • An annual printed directory for all Bancroft families (partially subsidized by selling directory ads).

How Does the Bancroft PTO Raise These Funds? 

• 70.5% from Bancroft Bucks (after the payment of taxes and prizes);
• 16% from the Halloween Festival;
• 13.5% from the Book Fair and Art to Remember

How Do I Contact the Bancroft PTO?  Attend a PTO meeting, or reach out to a Board member with any concerns or ideas!