Get tired of all the fundraising hullabaloo? Ever wonder exactly why you are writing that check to "Chesterbrook PTA?"

So, why does the PTA raise money? We use the income -- your money -- from our various sales, contributions, and dues to fund continuing programs, school acquisitions, support grants, and other programs that the Fairfax County Public School system does not fund through your tax dollars. These expenditures help enhance the quality of education at Chesterbrook Elementary School.

Additionally, a major purpose of any PTA is to "bring into closer relation the home and the school" and to "encourage community involvement." Fundraising programs that are heavily dependent on volunteers enhance the community building aspect of the shared resource that is Chesterbrook Elementary School administration, faculty, and support staff. Parents and families come together to produce our Book Fair, our Online Auction, our Fun Fair, and our Back-To-School Kits.

The following chart illustrates the source of funds that pay for the many programs the PTA and our valued parent community supports.

The chart below shows how the PTA spends its money.

The Continuing Programs Budget includes: $5,460 for Cultural Events; $1,200 for Art Appreciation; $2,000 for Science Appreciation; $5,000 for Writer's Workshop; $500 for Junior Great Books; $1,100 for Family Fun Events; and $3,800 for Discovery Gardens. We also fund Donations/Scholarships, Hospitality, Staff Gifts, and several other important programs.

The School Acquisitions Budget includes: $20,000 for Core Instructional Materials; $24,800 for Classroom Sound Field Enhancement Systems; $400 for Art Materials; $400 for Musical Equipment and $400 for PE Equipment. The Media Center receives all of the Book Fair proceeds which the PTA Executive Board anticipates will be about $5,000.

The School Support Grants Budget includes: $5,500 for Field Trips; $4,000 for Renzulli Website and Training; $5,500 for Staff Development; $1,000 for Instructional Events; $900 for Patrol Camp and Expenses, and more.

The PTA Board is proud to fund, sponsor and promote these important activities and programs. Thank you for during your part. As always , the Board welcomes new volunteers who bring valuable fresh ideas to the conversation.

By virtue of its 501(c)3 tax-exempt designation, the PTA does not donate its funds to other organizations or engage in commercial activities.