Pillager Elementary School now has a Parent Teacher Organization (PTO), formed this past summer by parents of students.

The goal of the PTO, according to information provided by PTO President Jody Carey, is to support the school and teachers by encouraging parents to be more involved in the school.

Studies have shown, Carey added, that students perform better in school when their parent(s) are involved with day-to-day activities.

The Pillager PTO provides several opportunities for parents to get involved; 10 events over the course of the year in which parents will plan and participate.

The PTO's involvement will take some of the workload away from teachers and administration, Carey said.

In addition to volunteering, the PTO sponsors events that allow parents to get to know each other and learn from one another. Informal gettogethers at The Shante in Pillager

allow parents to meet and socialize.

The PTO is also planning a few "Coffee with Wanda" events during

the school year, which will give parents and community members the opportunity to ask Wanda Bell, elementary principal, questions; as well as to offer feedback in an informal and positive setting.

According to Carey, many parents who are joining the PTO want to be more connected to the school. They want to build a closer relationship with teachers and administrators, know the families of other students and support the school to make it the best place for their kids.

Parents, grandparents, guardians and community members are all invited to participate at any level. Carey said that although the goal is to have each parent volunteer two hours per school year, the amount of time spent with the PTO is completely up to the individual.

For more information about the PTO, call Jody Carey at 218-746-3413 or e-mail the PTO at pto@pillager.k12. mn.us.