As I sit here listening to my 2 year old play, I feel the overwhelming emptiness that fills my house. For 3 months I've had anywhere from 3 children (mine) to 9 children (the neighbor kids) running through my house. The doors opened and slammed shut, the arguments erupted and escalated, there was singing, there was dancing, there was laughter, sometimes there were multiple TVs on (with nobody watching them), somebody needed something to eat, somebody needed something to drink, somebody needed a bandaid, and then today...

Emptiness.

Part of me wants to jump for joy! Finally, calmness can fill my days again. I mean, one 2 year old is pretty low key (and relatively quiet without her siblings here provoking her). Then there's the other part of me...the part that kinda wants to cry. My 2 big kids have started another new chapter of their lives today. I miss them so much and I can't wait to see them this afternoon and hear all about their day! I know they are in good hands. I really enjoyed meeting both of their teachers and I think we're all in store for a great school year!

I also know tomorrow will be easier. I always feel this way on the first day of school. So parents, if you are having any mixed emotions this morning, please know that you are not alone! The first day of school can be exciting, scary, fun, and sad all rolled into one (and not just for our kids). I hope that all of our children have the best first day ever today! In fact, I wish that this will be everyone's best school year yet!

I hope to see you next week at our 1st PTO meeting this year. I've been working on the agenda and we have so many exciting things to talk about concerning this school year! Please plan to join me in the school library at 7:00pm. Remember, free childcare is included and there are no fees. You are a member already, just by having a child at Aurora! 

-Lori

I just wanted to take a quick minute to share how honored I feel to serve with such a dedicated group of parents. The past 2 days we came together, first, at Walmart to haul school supplies, and second, at the school to pack the supplies. This group of moms and dads don't mind rolling up their sleeves and doing whatever it takes to get the job done. 

I will be honest, I had so much fun! I know I may be in a minority out there, but I really do get charged by being with other people, having a goal, and seeing it finished. I feel so accomplished and feel such a sense of connection. I was surprised how quickly we had everything all packed and cleaned up! It really goes to show when everybody does a little, then nobody does "a lot". 

We shared some laughs (Erica, could you put out some more bags, please?? lol), ate some pizza and cookies (more than I should have!), and did a great service! I thought about how many parents ordered kits and how many parents would be able to take just a little break because of our evening of work (fun). I always order a kit for my kids because it makes my life so much simpler than running all over Fargo looking for just the right item. Last year, when my son was in Kindergarten, he needed a certain sized ring binder. I had to go to 4 stores before I could find the right one!!! Dragging all 3 kids with me was not my idea of a good time, I might add! 

Anyway, I just wanted to say thanks again to everyone that helped out (so much for my quick minute, I know, I know...). I can't wait for our next project together!!!
Whatever it takes!
-Lori

What is a PTO? How is it different from PTA? I have heard that question many times and if you are wondering that, then believe me, you are not alone! Let me break down a few key components of each group and you'll easily see the difference. These facts were obtained from ptotoday.com. There are more details there if you would like additional information.

I'll start with PTA:
A PTA is a local chapter of a parent group that is affiliated with both the state organization and the National PTA. They have paid employees that work at their headquarters in Alexandria, VA. All local chapters are required to pay dues (which means all members pay dues). Most local chapters have to pay $700 (or more) on state and national dues and an additional $100-$300 on insurance.  PTA dues support state and national advocacy efforts and local PTA groups cannot advocate publicly against PTA approved positions. The local PTA is part of the state and national political and advocacy efforts and the local chapter can play a role in determining National PTA positions. 

Now, on to PTO, which is what we are at Aurora:
A PTO is an independent parent group. There are no paid employees, as there are no state and national affiliates. Dues are completely optional and are up to each group to decide if and how much. THERE ARE NO DUES FOR AURORA'S PTO. If you have a child at Aurora Elementary, then you are already a member of the PTO! It's that simple! We are a non-profit organization and any money we bring in through fundraising goes right back into our school. Most PTO groups (Aurora's included) choose not to play an advocacy/political role. Instead, we remain focused on school- student- teacher support, parent involvement, and community building. Most importantly, (in my opinion), is that PTO groups devote their energies toward work focused on a single school. 
Our PTO has 2 "functions" (for lack of better terms). We fundraise and we serve. We have our big fundraiser in the fall (Sept. 19th is the kick-off date this year) and like it was previously mentioned, all money goes right back into the school. This year, every classroom teacher has a brand new, giant, multi-colored square rug for their classroom that was purchased with PTO funds from the fundraiser. We run the book fair and collect box tops too. We also do lots of service projects, such as the school supply kits, conference meals for the teachers, funding field trips, the school play, and 5th grade farewell, to name just a few. We are looking into some new, exciting ideas for this school year (stay tuned for more details!)

Hopefully, this gives you a general picture of what our PTO looks like and how we are different from a PTA. I urge you to check it out first hand on Tuesday, September 3rd at our first meeting. You will not be guilted to be on a committee or sign away hours volunteering. I promise!! No fees and free childcare...what do you have to lose? (See previous post about everything you have to gain!)
-Lori