What is PTSA?

PTSA (Parent Teacher Student Association) is a private, no-profit organization of parents, teachers, students and community members who strive to better the lives of children We are part of an association that is organized at local, state and national levels. By joining our local PTSA, you are automatically a member of state and national PTSA.

Why Join PTSA?

PTSA is the largest child advocacy volunteer organization working exclusively to improve the education, health, safety and welfare of all children,. As a member, you further our child advocacy mission by helping to identify needs, concerns and new programs and ultimately deciding how volunteer time and money are spent.

If I join, will I have to participate?

The strength of our PTSA lies in our member's creativity, dedication and connection to children. Participation in the many committees' volunteer opportujnities is entirely optional.

What does a PTSA Membership cost?

Annual dues are $15 per household.

What do I get with my membership?

Your membership ensures your meaningful involvement and vote in PTSA-related activities. We encourage your attendance at the 3 general meetings/year.  Each membership receives 2 student directories.  Directories are only available to PTSA members.

How does PTSA support our school?

Somerset PTSA takes a multi-facited approach to supporting all children at our school. We reinforce and strengthen classroom study by providing teachers and specialists with start-up grants and money for fieldtrips and classroom materials. We coordinate volunteers in the health room, library, and work room to provide assistance with first-aid, library needs, copying, mail distribution and other office duties.
We provide outside resources by assisting staff with grant applications and work closely with our school's Program Delivery Council and the Bellevue Schools Foundation. We sponsor a variety of programs and projects.  To finance activities we promote fundraisers.

Do I need to be a Somerset parent to belong to PTSA?

No. We encourage educators, relatives, neighbors, community leaders and anyone wishing to support Somerset Elementary to join PTSA. In the past, we have boasted 100% membership that include many "non-parents".

How do I join?

Contact the membership chairman, and/or go to the "Forms" menu item on this website and print out the "PTSA Membership/Registration" brochure; fill it out and drop it off at the school office.