For those of you who may not know, the PTO is an organization of parents and teachers of Duke Elementary.  The goal of the PTO is to strengthen, enhance and encourage the educational and social environment of Dr. James "Red" Duke Elementary.  Through membership dues and fundraising efforts, the PTO can donate funds to purchase educational materials and equipment for the school, as well as being involved in the efforts of the community.

 

For the PTO to be effective, parent membership involvement is essential.  Many working parents feel that they cannot be included in PTO, because they can't be on campus during the day or attend every meeting.  There are endless possibilities in ways you can help outside of school hours (volunteering to count Box Tops at home or signing up to work a shift at Carnival, Trunk or Treat or our Family Valentine Dance, etc.).  Whether you have 30 minutes or a couple of hours, your ideas, time, and your talents are truly needed.  

 

You may be wondering, exactly what does the PTO do?  Well, we're proud to say that in the last five years we've contributed the following major items,

• Installation of a running track, valued at $21,000. 

• Installation of second playground, valued at $38,000.00.

• A playground shade canopy to protect our students from the sun’s rays while at recess.

• Mobile classroom set of computers

• $20,000 to enhance the literacy library

• Established a Dr. "Red" Duke scholarship fund

• Conducted “Teacher Appreciation” events

• Provided volunteers as needed at the school

• Executed fun activities that strengthen the Duke community, such as Trunk or Treat, Carnival and a Valentine's Dance