FAQs

What is the Fallsmead PTA?

The Fallsmead PTA, or Parent Teacher Association, helps maintain high standards at Fallsmead Elementary School by planning and funding school programs, community events, and general projects that enhance our students’ education and environment. Our PTA supports critical programs that help our educators create an environment of academic excellence, empowers your children to have academically and culturally enriching experiences inside and outside of the classroom, and provides a rich mix of events that build connections and friendships for students and families. The PTA is staffed by wonderful parent volunteers who organize, plan, and carry out programs that benefit your children and our school.


But what does the Fallsmead PTA do?

  • The Fallsmead PTA sponsors events to build our community.
  • We provide activities and financial support for in-school education.
  • We organize and support after school education enhancement.
  • The Fallmead PTA gives staff recognition and support.
  • We facilitate communications via the PTA directory, fliers, email updates, our website at www.fallsmeadpta.org, the yearbook, Facebook, and more!
  • We give an annual school gift (e.g., the outdoor classroom and new playground equipment).
  • And so much more!


How do we do all this?

Members are the main source of revenue for the PTA. Your dues and donations are the only way we can afford to pay for all the great PTA events, activities, and programs throughout the school year!


Why should I join the Fallsmead PTA?

There are many reasons to join PTA including supporting your school, helping to improve your school environment, and helping to create a richer learning experience for the children. Click HERE for many more reasons you should join!


But I’m busy, and I don’t have time for the PTA. Why would it be important for someone like me to join?

Even if you have little time for and/or interest in volunteering for PTA activities, your membership dues are still an essential component to the success of our PTA which, in turn, contributes to the success of your child. Your dues are applied directly toward the many fun, interesting, and valuable programs, activities, and academic support functions that the PTA provides to all students of Fallsmead Elementary.


How much does it cost to join the Fallsmead PTA? Where does that money go?

  • PTA Membership - $40 (which includes 2 adult membership cards, 2 PTA votes, and 1 Fallsmead Elementary School directory)
  • Teacher/Staff PTA Membership - $10

For each member, we pay $1 to the MCCPTA, $2 to the Maryland State PTA, and $3.75 to National PTA. The remainder goes to the Fallsmead PTA operating budget.


If I join the PTA, do I have to go to the meetings?

Nope (although we would always love to see you there!). While the PTA meetings are a great way to make your voice heard and stay in the loop with what’s going on in the PTA, meeting attendance is not a mandatory condition of membership. In fact, most PTA meetings consist of the Executive Committee members, active committee heads, certain staff, and a sprinkling of other parents. We encourage you to attend meetings, though, because as a member, you have a vote! However, we understand that people are busy.


PTA sounds like a clique to me. Why would I want to be part of that?

Any organization, whether a PTA, a softball league, or a church choir may seem a little intimidating at first. But you can be sure that ALL are welcome to lend a hand, offer opinions, suggest changes and voice concerns. Give it a try. Come to a meeting or volunteer for a committee. We think you’ll be pleasantly surprised!


Who is in charge of our PTA?

The Fallsmead Elementary School PTA is governed by its Executive Committee, Board of Directors and, ultimately, by its members. The Executive Committee consists of the elected officers of the PTA, the Principal of Fallsmead Elementary School, and the parliamentarian (non-voting). The Board of Directors consists of the Executive Committee members and the chairs of standing committees. The Executive Committee elected by the membership each spring for a one year term. Have a question? Feel free to contact a board member HERE. That’s what we are here for!


How do I volunteer for something?

The best way to volunteer to help out is to contact the chairperson HERE for the committee you wish to work on and let him/her know your availability and what you’d like to do. Throughout the year you’ll hear of various opportunities to help out. Some happen at school during the day, but there are many options for working parents, too. Do you have a talent or resource you can share? We’d love to hear from you!


How do I find out what is happening with the Fallsmead PTA?

There are lots of different ways you can keep up with what is going on at Fallsmead! Our website (www.fallsmeadpta.org) is an invaluable place to find out all sorts of information about Fallsmead and the PTA. We also send out weekly Fallsmead Newsletter emails, which you can sign up for on our website. You can even like the Fallsmead PTA on Facebook!