Making a good learning experience an exceptional one!
The Lakeview Parent Teacher Student Association (PTSA) is an important part of the Lakeview Elementary school community. We provide an essential enrichment function for our students that state funding can no longer provide as well as host events to bring our community together. To do this, we recruit and manage volunteers and fundraise donations to support the many programs at Lakeview.
What type of organization is the PTSA?
The Lakeview PTSA is a local, self-governing membership association incorporated as a 501(c)3 tax exempt organization. We work in the school, for the school, and in partnership with the school, but are an independent legal entity.
Our local PTSA unit is chartered through, and affiliated with, the larger Washington State PTA (WSPTA). The purpose of the WSPTA is to “promote the health, welfare, safety and education of children and youth in home, school and community.”
Through our relationship with the WSPTA and its affiliates (at the council/district, regional and national levels) we have access to a number of valuable resources and the ability to provide input for their broader-reaching efforts. However, we also have the independence to develop goals and priorities consistent with the needs of our unique school community.
Community Building
By joining, you express support for our entire school community – students, teachers, staff, parents and volunteers — who work together to make Lakeview an exceptional place for our students to learn and grow.
Reputation Building
The level of PTSA membership is one element used by outsiders to judge the quality of our school. By joining, you enhance its reputation as well as the quality of teachers and staff attracted to the school.
Legislative Impact
The level of PTSA membership weighs into governmental spending decisions for our schools at the local, regional and state level. In addition, a portion of our membership fees go to our affiliated state and national organizations, which play an increasingly important advocacy role for students before various legislative groups.
PTSA Voting Rights
While any individual in the Lakeview community is encouraged to provide input and attend PTSA general meetings, only members may cast votes on proposals – including those which establish budgetary and programmatic priorities for the organization.
How are membership fees used?
The first $10.75 per member goes to support the activities of our larger affiliates at the district, regional, state and national levels. As mentioned above, these affiliates in turn provide us with a number of valuable resources and take the lead on broader-based initiatives. Remaining funds go into the Lakeview PTSA’s budget.
Why should our family join the PTA?
The Lakeview Parent Teacher Student Association (PTSA) survives solely on membership and fund drives. We do not receive any school or government funding. Without you, there is no us. Please join to keep your PTSA and your school strong. Your child will benefit from the programs the PTSA support which are no longer funded by state and district budgets, such as:
- After School Enrichment
- Art Program
- Back-to-School Activities
- Class Field Trips
- Emergency Preparedness
- Family Fun events (Dance Night, Multi-Cultural Night, Game Night, Carnival etc.)
- Math Enrichment
- Physical Education Equipment
- Safety Patrol Supplies
- School Play
- Science Fair
- Staff Appreciation
- Teacher Grants & Classroom Supplies
- Website & Newsletter
- Yearbook
What are my responsibilities after I join?
Membership in the PTSA does not require any particular action on your part. While you don’t have to attend meetings or provide volunteer assistance for PTSA-sponsored activities – we hope you’ll choose to do so!
When and how do I join?
Anytime - just click here! (Though it's best to join during the start of the school year, so you're part of the team.)
If you have questions about membership, please contact the membership team at membership@lakeviewptsa.org
