About Us

Why

The purpose of Cornell Elementary PTO is to support the students and teachers at Cornell by promoting educational, social, and personal development through volunteerism and fundraising initiatives.

But what does that mean…

• We plan social events for the school
• We raise money to financially support teachers’ purchases for their classrooms
• We support school programs that might not otherwise get funded or be possible
• We discuss new ways to support teachers, staff, and students

We are an entirely volunteer-run, 501(c)(3) non-profit organization. Our funds and efforts are 100% directed to Cornell Elementary, but we are not employed, nor governed by OPS.

We do not:

• Influence school policy
• Relay messages to administrators
• Address individualized concerns within the classroom/lunchroom

What

Our biggest yearly budget item goes towards our staff, called the start-up, to support their needs throughout the year. These funds go directly toward outfitting their classrooms, off-setting the costs of class parties, and more. In addition, we have directly funded many of the technology programs your students are using on their school-supplied devices, such as Vocabulary A-Z and RAZ Kids. We also offer teachers opportunities to request more funds for specific programs.

The list is long, but many other programs include:

• playground equipment
• track and blacktop resurfacing
• classroom furniture
• classroom fidget toys
• OEF Teacher Awards Table
• school laminator
• yearbook
• Mileage Club
• Read together: Grow together
• Summer Playground Project
• field trip scholarships
• flexible classroom seating
• Science Fair
• Family Fun Night, and more!

Who

Every parent and guardian of a student attending Cornell Elementary School is a member of Cornell PTO. New since 2022 – every adult parent/guardian of students at Cornell are eligible for accounts with MSUFCU through our new SEG program. Email [email protected] for details!

How

We are managed and held together by the volunteer work of the board.