The Gustine Elementary School Parent Teacher Club is aiming to bring more families into the fold this year as it continues supporting students, teachers and school events. The group, which serves a similar role to a traditional PTA, is focused on creating more opportunities for parents and community members to get involved at GES.
Marina C. Garcia, a member of the club, said one of its biggest priorities is making sure families know the organization exists and understand how it can strengthen the connection between school and home.
“One of our biggest goals this year is to increase parent involvement and help more members of our community know that the GES Parent Teacher Club exists and is here to support our students, families, teachers and staff,” Garcia said.
The club supports classroom needs, assists with school activities and works to create positive experiences for students. Garcia said the group wants families to feel included in their children’s school day while also helping teachers and staff.
The Parent Teacher Club is already planning several events and fundraisers. In October, it will participate in the ASB Fall Festival with a posole take‑out fundraiser, with proceeds going directly back to students and families. The group is also preparing for a Family Dance Night and Family Game Night, which it hopes to host in February and March.
“Our goal is to create fun opportunities where families can spend time together and build memories within our school community,” Garcia said.
The club has supported teachers through efforts such as the Teacher Treat Trolley, which offers snacks during the school day, and by donating supplies including glue, books and classroom rewards. Past fundraisers have helped pay for teacher appreciation gifts and family events with free snacks and drinks.
One project the group is especially proud of is “Hawkville,” a Christmas tree display inspired by Whoville. Profits from the Teacher Treat Trolley helped purchase the stand and tree, which students decorated with ornaments.
“This project was especially meaningful because it was our first major purchase and donation to the school,” Garcia said. “It was exciting to see something that began with our fundraising efforts become something the entire school could enjoy.”
This year, the club also participated in the school’s 9/11 memorial project, which Garcia said was meaningful because members worked alongside students and saw them take pride in their contributions.
Although the club has helped bring several projects to life, Garcia said it remains small, with only three active members. The group hopes more parents and community members will consider joining, even if they have limited time.
The Parent Teacher Club meets once a month to discuss school topics, vote on decisions and plan fundraisers and events. Meetings are posted through ParentSquare and are held on the last Tuesday of each month. Parents can also volunteer at events, donate supplies, support fundraisers or attend a meeting to share ideas.
“You don’t have to have a lot of free time to make a difference,” Garcia said. “Even volunteering once, sharing an idea or helping at one event can make a difference.”
Garcia said the more parents who get involved, the more the club can do for students, families and teachers.
“The GES Parent Teacher Club is about building a community of parents who want to be there for our kids,” she said. “We want to work together, have fun, support our teachers and staff, and make GES an even more exciting place for our students to learn and grow.”
