Ann Arbor PTO Council is encouraging local families who are able to donate $20 (or more) to contribute to their online fundraiser aimed improve funding at Title I elementary schools. The fundraiser will fun until May 11.
While PTOs are known to supplement gaps in school funding — providing opportunities such as guest speakers, field trips etc. — not all PTOs are able to raise the same amount of money, due to wealth and resource inequities. PTOs from schools with more economically disadvantaged students have lower income than other schools.
Last year, with the help of the Ann Arbor PTO Thrift Shop, $55,000 was raised in the fundraiser.
How to participate
There is a GoFundMe where you can direct any family or friends you encourage to donate $20 or more towards the cause. The money will be distributed to Title I schools in the spring, allowing the PTOs to boost 2025/2026 funding for Title I schools. This pilot project is in its third year and it is part of the larger PTOC equity work.
RELATED: Ann Arbor Public Schools PTO Council Fundraises for Funding Equity
For those who prefer to contribute via check, they are accepted those at Ann Arbor PTO Council, 2555 S. State Street, Ann Arbor, MI, 48104. The check can be made out to Ann Arbor PTO Council.
The PTOC recognizes that this fundraiser alone will not resolve inequity and that more comprehensive, sustained efforts are necessary. However, this is a small first step.
