Volunteer Training

Why Annual Volunteer Training is a Good Idea

• Group training establishes common practice across the PTO
• Especially important in years with high turnover
• Helps Volunteers feel more comfortable in their role and a part of the school community. Think back to when you first started volunteering!

When and Where Should Training Take Place

• At the beginning of the school year before most programs are underway
• Timing depends on your volunteer pool: Daytime or Evening Sessions or both
• Have it at your school so you can include a tour of important places in the building

Topics to Cover in Training

• Contact information for PTO Board Members, Organizational Chart
• Generic timeline for planning an event and checklist: make sure space is reserved through the office, know committee’s budget, order tables and chairs if needed, cash box request, when/how to start promoting, etc.
• Ways your PTO promotes events: Facebook, Peachjar, School Newsletter/Website
• Financial forms & Money Handling Procedures: Reimbursement, Deposit, Cash Box, etc.
• Only PTO Board Members are bonded to sign contracts with vendors
• Committee Report: Have committee chair fill out a form with all of this information to ease transition.
• Conclude training with a tour of important places in the school:
  • Office-introduce to office staff
  • PTO filing cabinet/mailbox, PTO Storage
  • Other places of interest: Copy Room, Staff Mailboxes, Construction Paper Closet, etc.