PTO experiences continued growth and success

Special to The Moulton Eagle

"In its second year, the Moulton ISD PTO has experienced both growth and a continuation of success and participation in its events and goals. As a result of community donations, the PTO has been able to perform a multitude of acts in support of our entire school district. Memberships, sponsorships, and two fundraisers that included a plates-to-go and bake sale, and dinner and dance have funded our ability to do so much at both the elementary and high school campuses that capture all of the students and staff in supportive and enjoyable ways.

"A school supply drought would not be found on our campus after a drive for needed items was held around town before the beginning of the school year. The PTO stocked both workrooms at the elementary and high school buildings with snacks and goodies to help the teachers and staff remain energized to tackle their busy days. Additionally, an umbrella was purchased for each high school student to help them stay dry on those rainy school days as they walk between buildings around campus. Our generous community has allowed us to hold Fun Days at the end of each six weeks where elementary students enjoy a movie, snack, and bounce house under the supervision of PTO volunteers, allowing teachers time alone in their classrooms to catch up on required work and preparation for the next six weeks. High school students are treated to a special snack at the end of each six weeks to keep them fueled up and ready to tackle the next grading period. Everything from popcorn, ice cream, and donuts has been delivered, with more goodies scheduled to arrive before the academic year ends.

"Nothing makes our days shine brighter than seeing the children's faces light up with a smile when they are given the opportunity to experience fun and joy, even in the simplest of ways. The first annual PTO Fall Festival was a giant hit with the kids as they decorated pumpkins, played all sorts of fall-inspired games and activities, and dined on yummy food and desserts provided by local vendors, all for quarters in expense. A traditional coloring contest for the elementary kids was held before the Christmas break, and PTO judges had the toughest time choosing winners amongst a large pool of talented artists. This same sentiment of simple fun carried over into the Spring semester when 450 leapfrogs were hidden around the school for the students to find in celebration of Leap Day on February 29th. The giggles could be heard up and down the hallways, and everyone got in on the excitement of locating the frogs, even the adults!

"Students aren't the only ones who reap the benefits of the PTO's efforts. We all know how successful MISD students are in their academic achievements and extracurricular activities, and none of that comes without the dedicated and hard-working individuals employed by the district who teach and instruct our youth in ways that reach beyond the classroom. The PTO strives to extend its appreciation to the faculty and staff for their efforts in multiple ways, from hosting luncheons to distributing gift cards to each and every teacher in both the elementary and high school buildings, among other unique moments of gratitude. The PTO acknowledges each staff member for their work on dedicated days, and everyone is included, from the bus drivers to the cafeteria heroes, maintenance and custodial professionals, teachers' aides, all the way up to the principals and superintendent. It takes all kinds of kinds and various types of talent and skill to keep the school district running, and the PTO aims to always acknowledge how lucky we are to have the best of the best.

"But, that's not all! The 2023-2024 is not yet over and we have a schedule stocked full of events to support and thank our students, faculty, and staff at MISD. This week, we have volunteers reading and handing out a free Dr. Seuss book to each student in the elementary school. The first annual MHS Chili Cook-Off and Cornhole Tournament are ongoing at the high school campus where each class from 7th through 12th grade is vying for the best pot of chili in town. We have two free dances coming up for both high school and elementary students and their families, the highly anticipated Bobkat Store where elementary students redeem punch cards earned for acts of kindness and academic success for prizes, more staff appreciation days (nurses, librarians, paraprofessionals, we are looking at you!) end of the year field days, and a teacher appreciation week that's set to shower the staff in a storm of thanks and gratitude for a year of hard work and dedication.

"We are so thankful for all the support this community has shown the PTO. Without the kind-hearted culture of Moulton, none of the above would be possible. From every minute of volunteer time to each crumb of donated desserts and food, we thank you and look forward to continuing the fun and thanks in the days, weeks, months, and years ahead!"

Thank you,
Shirley Dees
PTO Secretary