Why Join the PTA?

Each year, when you buy a PTA membership with Bethany, you help us provide educational programs and fun family events that benefits the students of Bethany Elementary!  

Joining THE PTA does not commit you to do anything. 

It simply makes you a child advocate.

You do NOT have to volunteer. You do NOT have to go to PTA meetings. 
Although you are very welcome to do both!

Your membership supports programs and fun events at Bethany Elementary!

• After School Programs
• Donuts for Grownups
• Family Game Night
• Trunk-or-Treat
• Glow run
• Hospitality events for Teachers and Staff
• And many more

10 Myths about joining the PTA:

Myth #1: IF I JOIN THE PTA, I WILL HAVE TO VOLUNTEER.

FALSE! Every person has a different capacity to give and be involved. And your capacity to volunteer will change from one year to the next. Your decision to purchase a PTA membership (and stay current on what is happening with kids in our area) is significant all by itself.

Myth #2: THE PTA ALREADY HAS ALL THE HELP THEY NEED.
FALSE! It's probably no surprise that the more volunteers Bethany has, the better. More volunteers means less work for each person — which means everyone has more time to enjoy events with their families!

Myth #3: I WILL HAVE TO TAKE A BOARD POSITION— OR LEAD A COMMITTEE— IF I JOIN THE PTA.

FALSE! Some of our most valued PTA friends have never held an elected (or appointed) position. You do not have to be a leader to be an important part of PTA. Your membership support it critical to our success too!

Myth #4: MY PTA MEMBERSHIP NEVER EXPIRES. I ONLY HAVE TO JOIN ONCE.
FALSE! PTA memberships are an annual thing— good for one school year. Memberships need to be renewed each year. If you choose to enroll online, your username and password will make it a snap to login and re-enroll each year.

Myth #5: I DON’T HAVE THE TIME TO JOIN THE PTA.
FALSE! If you are unable to give your time, please consider offering financial support. Joining—and donating if you are able— helps fund events and activities for the children through the school year!

Myth #6: THE BETHANY PTA DOESN'T NEED ME SPECIFICALLY.
FALSE! You have gifts and abilities that are entirely yours to give. When you give yourself to the people around you, all of us become richer for it! The first step is to show up and be willing to engage.

Myth #7: THE PTA IS ONLY FOR STAY-AT-HOME PARENTS.
FALSE! Our PTA is made up of men and women who have a wide range of daily commitments. Some work 60 hours a week, some are retired. But most juggle work, bills, household chores, kids, sports, and homework, just like you!

Myth #8: MY CHILD’S LIFE WILL BE THE SAME —WHETHER OR NOT I JOIN THE PTA.
FALSE! For at least 2 reasons:

1) If everyone felt this way, all the wonderful activities and supports your child enjoys because of PTA would suddenly vanish! and

2) Research shows that parental involvement within the child’s school increases their academic achievements and decreases behavior issues. Not only does membership put you in direct communication with other parents and teachers, it shows your child that you are interested and invested in their educational experience.

Myth #9: ONLY MOMS & TEACHERS BELONG TO OUR PTA.

FALSE! Moms, teachers and school staff DO naturally form the backbone of any PTA— BUT the strongest groups ALSO have many grandparents, aunts, uncles, neighbors and community leaders who are invested in the youngest members of society.

Myth #10: I HAVE AN AWESOME IDEA, BUT THE BETHANY PTA WOULDN'T BE INTERESTED.

FALSE! Nothing could be further from the truth! New ideas, and new friends keep our PTA fresh and exciting!