The PTA Difference: A Powerful Network
PTA is an association 6 million members strong. We are advocates for all children in our neighborhoods, throughout our states, and on Capitol Hill. PTO's are school-based and do not have the benefits of association that National PTA offers. No matter how hard PTO's work, their reach is limited and their impact is primarily local. A PTO cannot harness the strength and influence of a state or national organization. Whereby PTO's are often under the guidance of school personnel, PTA is an association of parents and under the leadership of parents. Too often PTO's are focused on fundraising activities for the school. PTA, on the other hand, focuses on the education, safety, and well-being of children. PTA is a grassroots organization with the clout to affect federal and state legislation to support PTA's Mission and Purposes. The result is that all children benefit.
The Breakdown: PTA vs. PTO
| PTA | PTO | |
|---|---|---|
| Area of Influence | National | Single School |
| Primary Purpose | Improvements for ALL Children | Fundraising in a Single School |
| Support Network | Local, State and National Levels | None |
| Guidance by: | Parents | School Officials |
| Ability to Affect Legislation | Yes, both State and Federal | None |
| Benefits... | ALL Children | Children in Single School |