FAQs

What is the PTA?
The Addison PTA is, first and foremost, an advocacy organization. We share the same mission as the national, state and PAUSD PTAs:

“To improve the education, health and welfare of all children and youth.”

Established in 1927, the Addison PTA is one of the oldest in Palo Alto. The PTA tagline, “every child, one voice,” conveys our purpose and focus. As child advocates, we support our school staff and educational programs through:

  • Fundraising activities
  • Volunteer programs
  • School-to-home communications
  • Community-building and support.

Our membership is made primarily of family members of our students and Addison teachers and staff. Members must register each year, and pay a fee to cover the administrative expenses of our organization.

Why does PTA need to raise money beyond its membership fees?
Our school community is made up of families representing a wide range of socio-economic backgrounds. In order to ensure all Addison students are provided with a rich environment for learning and growing, our PTA raises money so that every student has access to classroom supplies, community events and educational experiences and programs.

Where do PTA funds come from?
Funding for PTA comes from three sources:

  • The One-Payment Form (sent to each family at the beginning of the school year)
  • The Addison Adult Party & Auction
  • Fundraising Programs with our Local Supporters

All contributions are voluntary.

How can I financially contribute to Addison’s PTA directly?
During normal years, the PTA hosts a social fundraising event, the Addison Adult Party & Auction. This is the biggest celebration of the year, which happens in mid-October. The party is hosted at Lucie Stern, with food, cocktails, music and dancing. At the live auction, parents can buy tickets to special events scheduled throughout the school year. Events are hosted by an Addison families, and are wide-ranging—from the Father/Daughter Dance to the Great Amazing Race to Pancake Dinner & Movie Night to Oktoberfest. Some events are designed for families, while others are just for kids or adults.

Proceeds from the Addison Adult Party & Auction provide the bulk of PTA funding.

Due to the COVID-19 Pandemic, whether we hold this event in 2021-22, or some variant of it, is still being determined.

Are contributions tax deductible?
Yes. All contributions to Addison PTA are tax deductible. Addison’s Tax ID/EIN number is: 94-6171181.