Northwestern Elementary PTO

School can be a high stress environment for some students.  Our PTO helps fund the extras that are no longer included in the federal & state school budget.  This can help make school a place of joy, equality, and friendships, rather than just testing scores, sitting still, and being quiet.

1.  Removing Barriers to Equality

   1.  Field Trip Lifeline: A child who has never left the neighborhood gets to see opportunity, and this can spark a lifelong interest, they didn't even know existed.

   2. Scholarship Funds: This helps ensure a child does not have to sit out on events like the bookfair, because they don't have the $5 for a new book.  Thus providing dignity.

2.   Mental Health and Emotional Well-Being

   1. Playgrounds & Physical Outlets: This can help promote social inclusion for some students who thrive with physical activity.

   2. Calm down corners:  Sensory kits with fidgets and weighted blankets can be the difference between meltdowns and successful learning.

3.     ‘SPARK’ literacy / Project SMART

1.  Book Vending Machine:  The ability to earn “money” to buy a new book, can change a child who is struggling to get excited about reading into a book lover for life.

2. Author/Illustrator Visits:  Making something that feels impossible, real and tangible for students.  A child who loves to draw can realize a career in drawing is actually possible.

3. Our very own summer math and reading packets

4.      Support for our teachers and Caregivers

1.  Classroom grants or allotments allow things like flexible seating, wobble stools, floor cushions, and can directly help the fidgeting child focus and learn alongside peers.

These are just a few of the things we are able to give our students, in our Title 1 school.