Spruce Street School PS 397 Parent Teacher Association Inc

Spruce Street School PS 397 Parent Teacher Association Inc. is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization dedicated to supporting the educational enrichment of Spruce Street School, a New York City public school. The organization is classified under the category of Philanthropy, Voluntarism and Grantmaking Foundations/Public Foundations.

Purpose and Activities

The primary purpose of the Spruce Street School PS 397 Parent Teacher Association Inc. is to provide enrichment programs and other forms of support to enhance the educational experience at Spruce Street School. The organization operates with a focus on fostering a collaborative community among parents, teachers, and staff to improve the quality of education.

Programs and Fundraising

The PTA organizes various events and programs throughout the year, including a significant fundraising effort known as the Direct Appeal Campaign. This campaign is crucial as it supports up to one-third of the PTA's annual budget, funding essential programs not covered by state or city school budgets. These programs include:

• Professional Development for Teachers: Providing teachers with opportunities to improve their teaching skills.
• Enrichment Programs for Students: Enhancing student learning experiences with additional activities and resources.
• Staffed Library: Supporting the school's library to ensure students have access to a wide range of materials.
• Classroom Resources: Providing additional tools and materials to improve classroom learning conditions.
• Trained Recess Staff: Ensuring a safe and engaging recess environment for students.
• Health and Hygiene Initiatives: Including environmentally friendly hand soap and regular lice checks.

Governance and Membership

The PTA is governed by an executive board composed of volunteer parents who are elected annually. The fiscal year runs from July 1 to June 30, and elections for new board members occur at the end of each school year. Membership in the PTA is automatic for all parents, guardians, teachers, and staff of Spruce Street School, offering a platform for community engagement through monthly general meetings.

Finances

As a nonprofit organization, Spruce Street School PS 397 Parent Teacher Association Inc. relies primarily on contributions from the school community and fundraising efforts. In recent years, contributions have formed the bulk of the organization's revenue, with minimal income from investments. Donations to the PTA are tax-deductible, making it an attractive option for families and supporters who wish to contribute to educational enhancements.

Operation

The PTA utilizes its funds to support a variety of school initiatives, ensuring that Spruce Street School can offer a more comprehensive educational experience than what is covered by public funding alone. The organization's activities are closely tied to the needs of the school, reflecting its commitment to improving educational outcomes and community engagement.