Currently in the Fair Grove School District, there are not enough members in the Parent Teacher Organization (PTO), affecting the school in multiple ways.
The PTO is involved with the Fair Grove School District in many ways. A remaining member of the PTO and Elementary School Title I reading teacher, Ashley Monday, said that the PTO has dissolved because there is no standing board of officials. “During our March, April, and May meetings of 2025, we were not able to elect a new Board for this school year due to a lack of nominees… We have 6 Board positions to fill,” explained Monday.
Monday also stated that the PTO organizes many events throughout the school year to try to raise funds. Events such as school carnivals, the Holiday Shop, apparel sales, pizza sales at lunch, candy grams, and elementary dances have all been led by the PTO. They also have volunteers helping at events like Grandparents’ Day and school picture days.
Fair Grove Elementary School principal, Ryan Buffington explained, “PTO has actively supported Fair Grove Elementary School by providing funding for classroom supplies and items from wish lists that may not be covered within the school’s budget.”
Whether it be through time or money, the donations given to the Elementary school are very beneficial. “PTO sent $11,772.87 to our schools this summer to help with school needs during the 2025-2026 school year,” said Monday. “PTO has also provided lots of extra school supplies, as well as appreciation gifts and meals for Fair Grove school staff members.”
Leadership of PTO changes on average every few years as students and parents move through the district. Last year, Ashley Lederich served as the President of PTO, but has since stepped down from the position.
Buffington described that some remaining members of the PTO have been reaching out to people and trying to increase involvement and find new leadership.
Monday stated that the Fair Grove Schools would love to see an active PTO. “The funds raised make a huge impact in our classrooms for our students. The events are also fun for our families and our Fair Grove community! They say, ‘Many hands make light work.’ We would love to see many parents and teachers get involved to help PTO thrive again.”
The organization is hoping to elect a new board and begin fundraising for the school. Monday added, “People can follow us on our Facebook group, Fair Grove PTO, to stay up-to-date with PTO.”
Editor’s note: After the writing of this article, there was a scheduled PTO meeting for 9/16.
