ALCOTT PTSA

MEMBERSHIP FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

Why is membership important?

Alcott PTSA is part of a national movement, the National Parent Teacher Association (National PTA) that represents parents' and students' interests, rights and values to be implemented and enforced in every school day and beyond.

The PTSA is a membership-driven association. Membership in the PTSA shows that you value not only all the programs we organize and support, but also the time and effort spent by PTSA volunteers who make it happen. Many volunteer hours are needed to achieve our mission to enrich every Alcott student’s academic experience by providing resources, enrichment activities, academic programs and curriculum support, community-building activities and more.

Does every parent need to be a member of the Alcott PTSA?

A strong PTSA requires strong membership numbers. Only with a diverse group of parents can we ensure we have everyone's interests represented. In addition, the larger our membership base, the more voices we have on issues that are decided on at the county, state and national level.

What is individual membership and dual membership?

Individual membership covers membership for one person or entity.
Dual membership covers two adult memberships. The two people don’t need to be in the same household but belong to the same family.

What’s the price for membership?

$20 for individual membership;
$30 for dual membership;
$12 for staff membership;

We have membership scholarships available for low-income families. Please contact the school's counselor.

Where will the membership fee go?

Part of the membership fees go to Washington State PTA, National PTA,  Lake Washington Council PTSA. They provide resources, training and support for our board members and community.

Other expenses, like tax preparation and business fees are also paid by membership fees.

Any additional funds go back into our general budget and are used for all PTSA activities and programs.

Do I still need to donate if I paid my membership fee?

Being a PTSA member is different from participating in fundraising efforts at school. By becoming a PTSA member you ensure that we have legal grounds and basic funds to run our business (we are a registered 501c(3) organization. Donations allow us to do everything else we do.

What are my responsibilities as a PTSA member?

More than responsibilities, you have rights; Right to vote for the PTSA executive board; Right to audit our financial standings.

I am not a US citizen, can I join and vote for PTSA business?

​Yes!! No matter your status (citizen, resident or non-resident), you can become a PTSA member and vote at PTSA General Meetings.

How to join Alcott PTSA?

Go to www.alcottptsa.org,  click on the button "Become a member",  select individual or dual membership and register. ​

If I join Alcott PTSA, do I have to volunteer?

No. You are not obligated to volunteer once you join, but we always need volunteers. Check out our volunteer section to find more information.

What's in it for me?​

• Know what is happening at your student's school.
• Gain access to PTSA-provided parent and student education workshops.
• Build relationship with other parents, teachers and staff.
• Make suggestions to benefit your student's school.
• Be part of a positive change.
• Be a role model for your child by demonstrating the importance you place on education.
• Make your voice heard on behalf of all children.
• Use your membership card to enjoy discounts from many retailers and service providers.

What benefits/discounts do I get as a PTSA member?

After signing up or renewing your membership, you will receive an email containing your digital membership card. With that, you can access discounts offered through the National, State and Council PTA. https://www.wastatepta.org/get-involved/member-benefits/.
(The membership number is the same for NPTA, WSPTA and Alcott PTSA.)

Can I sponsor a membership?

Yes you can. Contact president@alcottptsa.org.

Do I need to renew my membership every year?

YES! Regardless of when you join, your membership must be renewed every academic year. We will send a reminder at the beginning of the school year.

What if I have more questions about membership?

Contact us at membership@alcottptsa.org.