Morning Creek Foundation

What is the Difference Between PTA and Foundation?

Many parents seek clarity as to the differences between the PTA and Foundation and why two separate organizations are required to perform one job.  It is true that Foundation and PTA share a common goal - the
betterment of our children's education. Both organizations work together throughout the year toward that end, but we each have a separate focus and are governed differently.

PTA provides an environment which invites parents and families to become involved in the education process.  They fund extra-curricular activities such as Math & Science nights, multi-cultural nights, field trips, family-school events, teacher appreciation programs as well as academic support programs.   

The Morning Creek Elementary Foundation's goal is to raise the money necessary to provide our children with the most competitive education possible.  This typically translates to purchasing elements of education
that the district and the state are unable to provide, be it technology, supplemental curriculum or valuable student services.  Over the past few years Foundation has purchased a 15-unit mobile laptop cart, overhead
document cameras for 17 classrooms, ReadingPlus program and technical support, student counseling and a dedicated PE instructional aide.

There are also instances where Foundation and PTA objectives overlap and they enter funding ventures jointly.  For example, both PTA and Foundation have contributed funds towards the acquisition and support of the ReadingPlus Program at Morning Creek.

These two organizations are governed differently with respect to how they raise and spend money.  PTA, as a national organization, is bound by strict by-laws which dictate how fundraising is achieved and how funds are
implemented into programs. Foundation, on the other hand, can pursue as much fundraising as is necessary to achieve its stated goals.  Funding decisions are guided by the Foundation Board, as representatives of parents, together with teacher and administrative input. Decisions can be made, or changed, as the Foundation sees fit.

Our Morning Creek PTA is exceptional, and our school "community" is enriched due to their efforts.  And our Foundation will continue bridging the gap between what public education offers and what a competitive, 21st-century education ideally should be.  Both organizations need your support and both would benefit from your input.  Check the Colt Clipboard and join us for an upcoming meeting.