FAQ

What is the PTA?

Simply put, PTA is the nation’s original parent group in schools, influencing millions of parents, past and present, to get involved in their children’s education. The Chester Academy PTA is a nonprofit organization; neither the organization nor its leaders receive any financial benefit from PTA activities. We are run by volunteers and led by volunteers, and we are accountable to parents and schools. We give parents what they want—a way to help their children succeed.

How much of my membership dues benefits Chester Academy directly?

Seventy percent of your membership dues go directly to benefit the children of Chester Academy. Thirty percent goes to the National PTA to help fund programs and resources that are available to all PTA members. Your membership dues along with fundraising efforts help fund school supplies for the classrooms, class field trips, special assemblies, social events, and wonderful after school educational programs.

Do I have to be a member of the PTA to attend the monthly PTA meetings?

NO. You are not required to be a member of the PTA to attend the monthly PTA meetings. All parents and teachers are welcome and encouraged to attend. The Chester Academy PTA meets monthly on the third Wednesday of the month in the school library at 7:00 p.m. We hope to see you there!

Do I have to attend the meetings if I become a member of the PTA?

NO. Attendance at the PTA meetings is completely voluntary. PTA meetings are opportunities to meet other parents and teachers, building rapport and discussing issues that are on your mind. PTA meetings provide a forum to share ideas, concerns and experiences with other parents and educators in the community.

What should I do if I want to volunteer?

First, you need to fill out the Volunteer Registration form. Return it in an envelope marked “PTA” to the school office. You may also contact Lorie Ouwerkerk (887-4136 made2mommy@gsinet.net) or Terry Kennett (483-1362 tlkennett@comcast.net) with any questions that you have regarding volunteering opportunities.

Do I have to be a member of the PTA to volunteer?

NO. You do not have to be a member of the PTA to volunteer your time. We appreciate all families who can give a few hours to help with school activities.

I understand volunteers working directly with children will be required to pass a fingerprinting check with State Police and the FBI. How does the process work?

That is correct. Volunteers working directly with children will be required to pass a fingerprinting check. Here are the steps in order to complete the process:

1. Go to the Main Office at Chester Academy to fill out the form to have a background check completed with the state police. A check for $25.50, made payable to State of NH Criminal Records, needs to be paid. This fee will be reimbursed after the background check is completed.
2. The volunteer needs to go to the Chester Police Station to be fingerprinted. The cost is $1.00 and can also be reimbursed by the district if a receipt is obtained. Please contact the Police Department to make arrangements for someone to be there to complete this process.
3. PTA needs to be notified that this process has been completed in order for volunteering in the school to commence.