Room Party - Who Pays for What?

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The following article - thanks to: Everything Elementary

Who Pays For What?
Each school and classroom has its own "policies" regarding how the classroom parties are financed. Basically, one of the following three procedures is typically used. Your teacher will be able to advise you, but remember to be flexible. In addition, don't feel you need to bear an unnecessary financial burden in order to make your party picture perfect…children are very easily pleased!

Some PTA/PTO organizations allocate portions of their budget to be distributed evenly among all the classes in the school for classroom parties. The money is distributed to the teacher at the beginning of the year. The teacher then decides if he/she will turn all of it over to the head room mother, or if she will determine how much will be spent on each event and give direction prior to each party.

At some schools, the head room mom or teacher sends a memo home at the beginning of the year, asking each student to contribute to a "classroom party fund". The amount of the contribution can range anywhere from $2.00 per student to $10.00 per student. Some parents may still supplement the parties with snacks or favors. Always work with the teacher to determine the amount, as she will be aware of any special financial needs. No child should ever be made to feel embarrassed.

Many classes do not ask for a one-time financial contribution, but rely on the participation of parents at each party. The head room mom appoints a chairperson for each party. The party chairperson then recruits parent volunteers to donate snacks, beverages, favors, decorations, or paper goods, etc. for the party. Some teachers/room moms request that each parent plan to make 2-3 "donations" through the year. The busiest of parents will make time to send items to a party, even if they are unable to attend.

Also see:
Room Party Basics
Room Moms Questions for the Teacher
ABC's for Room Moms
Room Party Check List
7 Ways to Say Thanks