Click here to view the PTA vs PTO difference chart

We often have the opportunity to say, "I am here volunteering for PTA."  This is sometimes met with a response that suggests that the listener thinks that we are a member of the same type of parent organization he/she belongs to, a "PTO".

The problem is the listener doesn't know the difference.  Let's change this!  Wisconsin PTA  needs your help -- we all need to be PTA promoters, and let everyone know that not all parent/school groups are alike.

What IS the difference between PTA and "PTO"?

• PTA cares for ALL children, not just those in a particular school.  Our children can grow up in a nice environment  that we provide them, but they will grow up and live in the "big" world:  we want our children going into a world that has cared for all its children.

• PTA is a network of self-governed local units, states, and the National Association, working together and learning from each other to make a difference for our children.  It's a common misconception that there is a state or national "PTO" out there, but a "PTO" is only one group of parents, involved in one particular school.

• PTA is a leader in promoting meaningful parent involvement in our schools: meaning a true partnership with the schools, not just volunteering in the classroom.  PTA provides the structure and message about parent involvement, with the National PTA Parent Involvement Standards.

• PTA offers support at all levels: State and National Board members are just a phone call away for support and advice.

• PTA offers resources and materials such as conferences and conventions, video and printed resources on loan,  the National PTA Annual Resource Book and Our Children magazine, as well as Wisconsin PTA materials sent to each local PTA regularly.

• PTA offers a link to other state and national organizations working for the well- being of children; we gain from their support and resources.

• PTA offers awards and recognition: for development of leaders, for students interested in the arts (Reflections), for exemplary PTA programs, projects, outstanding teachers and volunteers.

• PTA offers legislative information and updates to help all PTA members raise their united voice in defense and support of ALL children. PTA has helped pass more legislation, concerning the health and welfare of children,  than any other organization. In Wisconsin, PTA is widely given credit for blocking the "high- stakes" nature of the high school graduation test that was in the original student assessment legislation.

Some PTA units have an  "S" in their title, for "students", and there are all kinds of other letters that could be included: "G" for grandparents, "R" for any other relative, "M" for men, "N" for neighbors, "C" for community member or concerned business, "A" for all people. Everyone who is concerned about the health and well being of ALL children needs to be a PTA member.

By being a member of PTA you are doing more for your kids than you know - you give the organization a voice and the ability to provide the services that ALL children -- our children --and their families, schools,  and our decision makers need.