OTE PTO Committees

The OTE PTO is powered by volunteers! Our committees create meaningful experiences for students, support our staff, and strengthen our school community. Below is an overview of our committees and how they serve Overland Trail Elementary.

Fundraising Committees

Carnival

Our Fall Carnival is one of OTE’s biggest and most beloved events. This family-friendly night features games, prizes, food, entertainment, and tons of Cougar spirit. The committee plans the theme, coordinates vendors and volunteers, manages sponsorships, and brings the entire event to life. Funds raised directly support PTO programs, classroom grants, and school initiatives.

Trivia Night & Auction

Trivia Night & Auction is our signature adults-only spring fundraiser. This high-energy evening includes team trivia, a silent auction, music, and community connection — all in support of OTE. The committee oversees event planning, sponsorship outreach, auction procurement, registration, décor, and logistics.

Restaurant Nights

Throughout the year, we partner with local restaurants for dine-out nights where a percentage of sales from OTE families goes back to the PTO. The chair coordinates with restaurants, schedules dates, promotes events, and tracks funds raised.

Skate Parties

Held quarterly at Skate City, our Skate Parties give families a fun night out while raising funds for OTE. A portion of the evening’s proceeds is donated back to the PTO. The chair works with the venue to schedule dates and promote the events.

Community Outreach Committees

Support a Cougar

This program confidentially assists OTE students and families who may need extra support throughout the year. The committee works closely with school administration to provide supplies, event access, holiday assistance, yearbooks, and more in a discreet and thoughtful way.

Community Service

The Community Service Committee organizes opportunities for OTE families to give back through service projects and donation drives. These initiatives help teach our Cougars the importance of kindness, leadership, and community involvement.

Cultural Night

Cultural Night celebrates the rich diversity within our OTE community. Families host tables representing countries or cultures, and the evening includes performances, music, and student “passports.” The committee coordinates sign-ups, performances, and event logistics.

Family Nights

Family Nights are free events open to all OTE families. We typically host two each year — Bingo for Books in the fall and a Glow Party in the spring. The committee coordinates activities, volunteers, and supplies to create fun, inclusive evenings for everyone.

Hospitality Committees

Staff Appreciation

This committee celebrates and supports our teachers and staff throughout the year. From conference meals to Teacher Appreciation Week, the team ensures staff feel valued and supported.

Spirit Wear

The Spirit Wear committee designs and manages limited-time apparel drops featuring exclusive OTE designs. They coordinate with vendors, manage sales windows, and oversee distribution.

Room Parents & Classroom Celebrations

This committee coordinates Room Parents across all grade levels. Room Parents support teachers, help organize classroom celebrations, coordinate volunteers, and communicate with families.

Yearbook

The Yearbook Committee captures the story of our school year. From collecting photos to designing layouts and managing distribution, this team preserves OTE memories for students and families.

Birthday Signs

Birthday Signs give families a fun way to celebrate their student’s special day at school. The committee manages the annual calendar and coordinates sign creation and installation.

Special Events & Programs

Book Fair

We host two Book Fairs each year — one in the fall and one in the spring. The committee coordinates vendor communication, volunteer scheduling, and family shopping nights. Proceeds support classroom libraries and literacy initiatives.

5th Grade Celebration

The 5th Grade Celebration Committee plans a meaningful send-off for graduating Cougars, including special events and recognition activities to mark their transition to middle school.

Veterans Day

This committee coordinates our annual Veterans Day program, inviting special guests and organizing student participation to create a respectful and meaningful event.

School Supplies

The School Supplies Chair works with administration and staff to determine grade-level supply lists and partners with an outside vendor to offer convenient pre-packaged supply kits for families.

Interested in volunteering? Visit our Volunteer page to learn more about open roles and how you can get involved. We’d love to have you!