Do you want your voice heard in making meaningful programming for your small children?
Are you passionate about helping families in need in our community?
We have opportunities for you to make a difference in our Francis Howell School District!
Positions to fill:
Secretary: Take notes during our
bi-monthly meetings
Treasurer: Track spending for the
non-profit
Fundraiser Coordinator: Assist in our fundraising efforts
See by-laws below for complete position descriptions. The bottom line is that we are flexible and are looking for like-minded parents.
Please consider becoming a Board member to help plan and organize fun events for kids!
Time Commitment:
Are you passionate about helping families in need in our community?
We have opportunities for you to make a difference in our Francis Howell School District!
Positions to fill:
Secretary: Take notes during our
bi-monthly meetings
Treasurer: Track spending for the
non-profit
Fundraiser Coordinator: Assist in our fundraising efforts
See by-laws below for complete position descriptions. The bottom line is that we are flexible and are looking for like-minded parents.
Please consider becoming a Board member to help plan and organize fun events for kids!
Time Commitment:
- -Member Meetings every other month
- -Assist with planning at least one monthly playdate during the school year. Members are not obligated to attend all playdates.
- -Help with Spooktacular and Bunny Bonanza Planning
- -Assist with Fundraising for Hardship fund
- -Vote when families are in need of PALS hardship assistance
PresidentAllison Kroeger
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Vice PresidentKathryn Ingerslew Shelley
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NEED:
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Parents Actively Lending Support
Officers Handbook
2024/2025
Updated October 2024
Francis Howell Parents Actively Lending Support (PALS) Bylaws
Article I
Name
The name of the organization shall be Parents Actively Lending Support (PALS).
Article II
Incorporation
This organization is incorporated under the Not-For-Profit Corporation Laws of the State of Missouri on September 14th, 2009 and evidenced by Certificate of Incorporation number 41-2120837.
Article III
Mission, Vision, and Values
Section 3.1 Mission Statements
Parents Actively Lending Support is a social network for families with young children (birth to five years), and a support organization for Francis Howell Parents As Teachers, and Preschool teachers, students and patrons.
Section 3.2 Vision Statements
The vision of PALS is to provide social opportunities for families with young children; these opportunities will enrich and enhance the early childhood programs offered by the Francis Howell School District.
Section 3.3 Guiding Principles
PALS guiding principles:
Article IV
Membership
Section 4.1 Eligibility
Any family with a child(ren) ages 0-5 (pre kindergarten) that resides within the Francis Howell School District, or with a child(ren) enrolled in a Francis Howell School District early childhood program and interested in promoting the mission of this organization.
Section 4.2 Dues
There are no membership dues.
Section 4.3 Meetings
The first planning meeting of each school year will be scheduled in alignment with the Parents As Teachers calendar. Early childhood families will be notified of the date and time via email, newsletter, and/or PALS website and social media. Planning meetings will be held every other month throughout the school year for Board members and other members interested in being more involved. Additional meetings will be scheduled as needed and board members agree to add additional meetings throughout the school year.
Article V
Officers and Their Election
Section 5.1 Names
The principal governing body of the organization shall be called the General Board of Directors (“Board”).
Section 5.2 Powers and Duties
The Board shall supervise, control, and direct the affairs of the organization, shall determine its policies or changes therein within the limits of the bylaws, shall actively promote its purposes, and shall have discretion in the disbursement of its funds. It may adopt such rules and regulations for the conduct of its business as shall be deemed advisable, and may in the execution of the powers granted, appoint such committees or agents, as it may consider necessary.
Section 5.3 Compositions
The Board of the organization shall be President, Vice President, Secretary, Fundraising Coordinator and Treasurer.
A Parents As Teachers Advisor will also contribute to the Board and will attend bi-monthly meetings.
No person shall serve on the Board unless that person is qualified to participate in the organization.
All officers, representatives and other Board members shall be elected or appointed by the active Board as needed. All positions will be reviewed on an annual basis each spring (or as needed) to determine officers for the following school year. All new officers shall take office at the transition meeting each year of their term as designated in these bylaws or until their successors are chosen, unless he or she is earlier removed or resigns.
Section 5.4 General Board Officers- On Hold for 2024-2025. To be readdressed at end of school year to see if organization has the capacity to add additional leadership.
The non-executive, generally appointed officers include: Social Events Coordinator, Playgroup Coordinator, Social Media Coordinator, and Parents Night Out Coordinator, along with one representative from each early childhood education center Site-Based Team. General Board officer positions may be created as needed by a general consensus of the active Board, to be reflected in the bylaws immediately.
Section 5.5 Board Meetings
Board meetings shall be held bi-monthly during the school year, with Board members being notified within (2) weeks of the meeting date. Special meetings of the Board may be called by written request from the President or at least two (2) Board members. Notice of any meeting of the Board shall be deemed duly given to a Board member if mailed, provided by telephone, or other means of electronic communication at least seven (7) days prior to such meeting is to be held. Each such notice shall state the time and place of the meeting and the general purpose of the meeting.
Section 5.6 Quorums and Voting
A simple majority or general consensus of members present at the general meetings or planning meetings shall constitute a quorum for the transaction of business.
Section 5.7 Resignations or Removal
An officer or Board member may resign at any time. The acceptance of a resignation shall not be necessary to make it effective.
An officer or Board member may be removed from office for unethical actions and/or a strong conflict of interest with the group, at the discretion of the majority of the Board. If the board is split on their decision, a general meeting may be called by the Board inviting general members to come and vote on the matter of the removal of the officer in question. If such a meeting is deemed necessary, notification shall be sent to members via mail, email, newsletter, or other forms of electronic communication no later than (7) days in advance.
Legal action will be taken if necessary.
Section 5.8 Board Vacancies
The active Board shall fill vacancies on the Board. Each person chosen to fill a vacancy on the Board shall hold office until the next annual election of Board members, or if so determined by the Board, until the expiration of the term of the vacant position.
Section 5.9 Terms of Office
All officers of PALS shall be elected or appointed by the active Board, serving for a one-year term or until the end of the school year. All positions will be reviewed on an annual basis each spring (or as needed) to determine officers for the following school year. All new officers shall take office at the transition meeting each year of their term as designated in these bylaws or until their successors are chosen, unless he or she is earlier removed or resigns.
Any officer may be re-elected to their position or another position within the organization as determined by the members of the active Board. Once the youngest child of an active Board member is of Kindergarten age (5 years or older), they will be deemed ineligible to serve or be elected to a new term for the following school year.
A Board member (with the exclusion of the President and Vice President) may be re-elected to their position, as determined by the Board, if their youngest child has reached Kindergarten age (5 years or older) for one additional year under the following criteria:
Once a replacement for their seat has been established and trained (as applicable), they will be elected by the Board to replace the current sitting Board member.
Section 5.10 Nominations
Potential candidates may be solicited via mail, email, newsletter, or other forms of electronic communication and social media, and may also be nominated by active Board members. Members may also recommend or nominate a name to the active Board for consideration, including self-nominating.
Section 5.11 Duties
The duties of the offices shall be performed by appointed officers. Specific qualifications and duties are defined in the job descriptions portion of the PALS General Board of Directors Handbook.
Article VII Committees
The executive board may create as many standing and special committees as are determined necessary to fulfill the purpose of PALS. The powers, duties, and qualifications for appointment to such committees are specified in the job description section of the PALS Policies and Procedures Manual.
Article VIII Finances
Section 7.1 Fiscal Year
The fiscal year shall be from July 1 through June 30.
Section 7.2 Account
A reserve of $2,000 shall be kept in the bank account at all times.
Section 7.3 Budget
A tentative budget shall be drafted by the executive board before August 1 each year and approved by a majority vote of the members present at the August meeting.
Article IX Parliamentary Authority
The most current version of Robert’s Rules of Order, Revised, shall govern the proceeds of PALS in all cases not provided for in these bylaws.
Article X Dissolution
PALS may be dissolved at a membership meeting called for the specific purpose by a majority vote of the Board. Upon dissolution of PALS, any remaining funds shall be distributed to one or more non-profit organizations classified by the Internal Revenue Service as tax exempt under Section 501 (c) (3) of the Internal Revenue Code.
Article XI Amendments
These bylaws may be amended, repeated, or altered, in whole or in part (1) by a majority vote at any meeting of the organization; provided that a copy of any amendment proposal for consideration shall be mailed/emailed to the active Board at least two weeks prior to the date of the meeting.
Job Descriptions for Officers and Special Committees:
PresidentDuties: The primary function of the president is to serve as leader and key contact for PALS; preside at all PALS meetings; appoint officers; and coordinate the work of officers and committees so that the groups’ objectives can be met.
Responsibilities include:
Communication
Meetings: prepare and lead officer board meetings
Appointment of Officers
Social Events and Outings: finalize activities calendar with FHSD EC Administrator
Financial Matters
Publicity
Vice PresidentDuties: The Vice President will serve as fill-in for president as needed, help formulate the group’s long-range goals and activities, and participate in decision making. The VP may also focus on other officer position responsibilities that suit their talents (i.e. communications, volunteers, etc).
Responsibilities include:
Assist the president
Assist in obtaining necessary resources (volunteers, supplies, and donations) to facilitate group functions
PALS Support
SecretaryDuties: The secretary’s responsibilities include both record-keeping and communications to support the officer board, members, and PALS event attendees.
Responsibilities include:
Fundraising CoordinatorDuties: The primary function of the fundraising coordinator is to plan and conduct fundraisers to raise money for the PALS general fund and for the PALS Hardship Scholarship Fund.
Responsibilities include:
TreasurerDuties: The PTO treasurer is the custodian of the parent group’s funds. The treasurer helps develop the budget, collects fundraising money, writes checks for purchases and reimbursements, tracks income and spending, makes financial reports, and organizes the books for annual audit.
Responsibilities include:
PALS Tuition Scholarship Guidelines
1. The child is currently enrolled in a Francis Howell preschool.
2. Applications are submitted to the Administrative Assistants at the ECC on a rolling basis. The deadline date will be in accordance with the Preschool’s payment schedule.
3. Each applicant will be assigned a number by the Early Childhood Center. Central will start with 100, Hackmann will start with 200, and Meadows will start with 300. PALS will be given NO personal information on the applicants.
4. All applications will be reviewed by the Board and a determination will be made related to who will receive the scholarship money. PALS is able to provide up to six scholarships per month based on monetary availability.
5. Scholarship will fully fund one month’s tuition (for two half days per week).
6. Scholarships are funded on a month-to month basis, as funds are available.
7. Repeat applicants should contact the Administrative Assistant each month to request funding for the next month.
8. If funds are not available to fully fund a month’s tuition, a partial scholarship may be awarded.
Francis Howell School District
P.A.L.S. Preschool Helping Hands
Hardship Assistance Application
This application must be resubmitted and reviewed each month.
Parent Name_____________________________ Date _____________
Address ___________________City _____________Zip Code ________
Total number in household ________ Adults________ Children ________
Children Requesting Scholarships for Preschool
Name _________________________________ Date of Birth ______________
Name _________________________________ Date of Birth ______________
Is your child attending the preschool at this time? Yes ______ No ________
Month Requested _________________
Do you qualify and receive childcare assistance from Division of Family Services?
Yes __________ No ___________
______________________________________________________________________
I hereby certify that all of the above information is true and correct. I understand that I may be asked to verify income if requested by the district. Falsification of information may lead to discontinuation of services.
Signature of adult family member _______________________________Date _______________
This application is under consideration. You will be contacted concerning your application as soon as it is reviewed.
For Early Childhood Family Education Center Use Only
Francis Howell School District
P.A.L.S. Preschool Helping Hands
Hardship Assistance Application (Cont’d.)
Days of enrollment Child 1: (Circle) M T W Th F
Cost of tuition: ___________
Days of enrollment Child 2: (Circle) M T W Th F
Cost of tuition: ___________
Reason for Request: Explain nature of hardship
_________ Change of circumstance-hardship
Explanation: ___________________________________________________________
______________________________________________________________________________
______________________________________________________________________________
______________________________________________________________________________
______________________________________________________________________________
I hereby certify that all of the above information is true and correct. I understand that I may be asked to verify income if requested by the district. Falsification of information may lead to discontinuation of services.
This application is under consideration. You will be contacted concerning your application as soon as it is reviewed.
Early Childhood Family Education Center Scholarship ID Number____________________
For PALS Office Use Only
______ Information Verified Qualified Weekly Amount $______________
______ Financial Assistance Received
PALS Hardship Assistance Guidelines
1. The Family is currently living in Francis Howell School District and has one or more children ages 0-5 year (s) of age.
2. Applications are filled out and submitted to PALS Board. Applications are typically submitted by FHSD ECC, but other organizations can submit for review.
3. Each applicant will be assigned a number by the Early Childhood Center. Central will start with 100, Hackmann will start with 200, and Meadows will start with 300. PALS will be given NO personal information on the applicants.
3. All applications will be reviewed by the Board and a determination will be made related to if the assistance can be given and how much. Hardship funds will be distributed based on family need, amount of applicants and funds available.
4. Repeat applicants should contact the original organization that filled out the application to request additional funding.
8. If funds are not available to fully fund hardship need, partial funds may be awarded. Full amount is not guaranteed and is based on discretion of board approval and fund availability.
Date: _________ Hardship Fund ID Number: ___
Francis Howell School District
P.A.L.S.
Hardship Assistance Application
To be filled out by organization requesting funds for the family & returned to PALS representative for review.
Name of Organization Requesting Funding for Family:_____________________
Contact Information for Organization Requesting Funds:
Name:_______________________________
Email:_______________________________
Phone:______________________________
Reason for Request: Explain Nature of Hardship ______________________________________________________________________
______________________________________________________________________
______________________________________________________________________
Total number in household: _____ Adults:_____ Children: ________
Funding Needs:
Amount requested: $___________
Intended Use for Funds:__________________________________________________
Payment Type Preference:________________________________________________
Person/organization to make out Payment:____________________________________
Where to send it:________________________________________________________
I hereby certify that all of the above information is true and correct. Falsification of information may lead to discontinuation of services.
This application is under consideration. You will be contacted concerning your application as soon as it is reviewed.
Signature verifying family would benefit from financial assistance at this time:_____________________________________ Date: ___________
For PALS Office Use Only
______ Information Verified Amount $______________
______ Financial Assistance Received
Officers Handbook
2024/2025
Updated October 2024
Francis Howell Parents Actively Lending Support (PALS) Bylaws
Article I
Name
The name of the organization shall be Parents Actively Lending Support (PALS).
Article II
Incorporation
This organization is incorporated under the Not-For-Profit Corporation Laws of the State of Missouri on September 14th, 2009 and evidenced by Certificate of Incorporation number 41-2120837.
Article III
Mission, Vision, and Values
Section 3.1 Mission Statements
Parents Actively Lending Support is a social network for families with young children (birth to five years), and a support organization for Francis Howell Parents As Teachers, and Preschool teachers, students and patrons.
Section 3.2 Vision Statements
The vision of PALS is to provide social opportunities for families with young children; these opportunities will enrich and enhance the early childhood programs offered by the Francis Howell School District.
Section 3.3 Guiding Principles
PALS guiding principles:
- Community Building
- Collaboration
- Respect for every family
- Fostering positive home-school relationships
- Raise funds for families experiencing hardships
Article IV
Membership
Section 4.1 Eligibility
Any family with a child(ren) ages 0-5 (pre kindergarten) that resides within the Francis Howell School District, or with a child(ren) enrolled in a Francis Howell School District early childhood program and interested in promoting the mission of this organization.
Section 4.2 Dues
There are no membership dues.
Section 4.3 Meetings
The first planning meeting of each school year will be scheduled in alignment with the Parents As Teachers calendar. Early childhood families will be notified of the date and time via email, newsletter, and/or PALS website and social media. Planning meetings will be held every other month throughout the school year for Board members and other members interested in being more involved. Additional meetings will be scheduled as needed and board members agree to add additional meetings throughout the school year.
Article V
Officers and Their Election
Section 5.1 Names
The principal governing body of the organization shall be called the General Board of Directors (“Board”).
Section 5.2 Powers and Duties
The Board shall supervise, control, and direct the affairs of the organization, shall determine its policies or changes therein within the limits of the bylaws, shall actively promote its purposes, and shall have discretion in the disbursement of its funds. It may adopt such rules and regulations for the conduct of its business as shall be deemed advisable, and may in the execution of the powers granted, appoint such committees or agents, as it may consider necessary.
Section 5.3 Compositions
The Board of the organization shall be President, Vice President, Secretary, Fundraising Coordinator and Treasurer.
- President. The president shall preside over meetings of the organization and officer board, serve as the primary contact for the organization, represent the organization at meetings outside the organization, and coordinate the work of all the officers and committees so that the purpose of the organization is served.
- Vice President. The vice president shall assist the president and carry out the president’s duties in his or her absence or inability to serve.
- Secretary. The secretary shall keep all records of the organization and take and record meeting minutes.
- Fundraising Coordinator. The primary function of the fundraising coordinator is to plan and conduct fundraisers to raise money for the PALS general fund and for the PALS Hardship Scholarship Fund.
- Treasurer. The treasurer shall receive all funds of the organization, keep an accurate record of receipts and expenditures, and pay out funds in accordance with the approval of the executive board. He or she will present a financial statement at various times throughout the year, make a full report at the end of the year, and shall obtain and complete Internal Revenue Service forms at the proper times.
A Parents As Teachers Advisor will also contribute to the Board and will attend bi-monthly meetings.
No person shall serve on the Board unless that person is qualified to participate in the organization.
All officers, representatives and other Board members shall be elected or appointed by the active Board as needed. All positions will be reviewed on an annual basis each spring (or as needed) to determine officers for the following school year. All new officers shall take office at the transition meeting each year of their term as designated in these bylaws or until their successors are chosen, unless he or she is earlier removed or resigns.
Section 5.4 General Board Officers- On Hold for 2024-2025. To be readdressed at end of school year to see if organization has the capacity to add additional leadership.
The non-executive, generally appointed officers include: Social Events Coordinator, Playgroup Coordinator, Social Media Coordinator, and Parents Night Out Coordinator, along with one representative from each early childhood education center Site-Based Team. General Board officer positions may be created as needed by a general consensus of the active Board, to be reflected in the bylaws immediately.
- Social Events Coordinator.
- Playgroup Coordinator.
- Social Media Coordinator.
- Parents Night Out Coordinator.
- Site Based Team Officers.
Section 5.5 Board Meetings
Board meetings shall be held bi-monthly during the school year, with Board members being notified within (2) weeks of the meeting date. Special meetings of the Board may be called by written request from the President or at least two (2) Board members. Notice of any meeting of the Board shall be deemed duly given to a Board member if mailed, provided by telephone, or other means of electronic communication at least seven (7) days prior to such meeting is to be held. Each such notice shall state the time and place of the meeting and the general purpose of the meeting.
Section 5.6 Quorums and Voting
A simple majority or general consensus of members present at the general meetings or planning meetings shall constitute a quorum for the transaction of business.
Section 5.7 Resignations or Removal
An officer or Board member may resign at any time. The acceptance of a resignation shall not be necessary to make it effective.
An officer or Board member may be removed from office for unethical actions and/or a strong conflict of interest with the group, at the discretion of the majority of the Board. If the board is split on their decision, a general meeting may be called by the Board inviting general members to come and vote on the matter of the removal of the officer in question. If such a meeting is deemed necessary, notification shall be sent to members via mail, email, newsletter, or other forms of electronic communication no later than (7) days in advance.
Legal action will be taken if necessary.
Section 5.8 Board Vacancies
The active Board shall fill vacancies on the Board. Each person chosen to fill a vacancy on the Board shall hold office until the next annual election of Board members, or if so determined by the Board, until the expiration of the term of the vacant position.
Section 5.9 Terms of Office
All officers of PALS shall be elected or appointed by the active Board, serving for a one-year term or until the end of the school year. All positions will be reviewed on an annual basis each spring (or as needed) to determine officers for the following school year. All new officers shall take office at the transition meeting each year of their term as designated in these bylaws or until their successors are chosen, unless he or she is earlier removed or resigns.
Any officer may be re-elected to their position or another position within the organization as determined by the members of the active Board. Once the youngest child of an active Board member is of Kindergarten age (5 years or older), they will be deemed ineligible to serve or be elected to a new term for the following school year.
A Board member (with the exclusion of the President and Vice President) may be re-elected to their position, as determined by the Board, if their youngest child has reached Kindergarten age (5 years or older) for one additional year under the following criteria:
- They are working towards or working with, a replacement for the seat in which they reside.
- Their child(ren) still remain in the FHSD School District.
Once a replacement for their seat has been established and trained (as applicable), they will be elected by the Board to replace the current sitting Board member.
Section 5.10 Nominations
Potential candidates may be solicited via mail, email, newsletter, or other forms of electronic communication and social media, and may also be nominated by active Board members. Members may also recommend or nominate a name to the active Board for consideration, including self-nominating.
Section 5.11 Duties
The duties of the offices shall be performed by appointed officers. Specific qualifications and duties are defined in the job descriptions portion of the PALS General Board of Directors Handbook.
Article VII Committees
The executive board may create as many standing and special committees as are determined necessary to fulfill the purpose of PALS. The powers, duties, and qualifications for appointment to such committees are specified in the job description section of the PALS Policies and Procedures Manual.
Article VIII Finances
Section 7.1 Fiscal Year
The fiscal year shall be from July 1 through June 30.
Section 7.2 Account
A reserve of $2,000 shall be kept in the bank account at all times.
Section 7.3 Budget
A tentative budget shall be drafted by the executive board before August 1 each year and approved by a majority vote of the members present at the August meeting.
Article IX Parliamentary Authority
The most current version of Robert’s Rules of Order, Revised, shall govern the proceeds of PALS in all cases not provided for in these bylaws.
Article X Dissolution
PALS may be dissolved at a membership meeting called for the specific purpose by a majority vote of the Board. Upon dissolution of PALS, any remaining funds shall be distributed to one or more non-profit organizations classified by the Internal Revenue Service as tax exempt under Section 501 (c) (3) of the Internal Revenue Code.
Article XI Amendments
These bylaws may be amended, repeated, or altered, in whole or in part (1) by a majority vote at any meeting of the organization; provided that a copy of any amendment proposal for consideration shall be mailed/emailed to the active Board at least two weeks prior to the date of the meeting.
Job Descriptions for Officers and Special Committees:
PresidentDuties: The primary function of the president is to serve as leader and key contact for PALS; preside at all PALS meetings; appoint officers; and coordinate the work of officers and committees so that the groups’ objectives can be met.
Responsibilities include:
Communication
- With Officers:
- Maintain close contact with all officers
- Hold Board meetings bi-monthly during the school year (Aug-May)
- Report all pertinent information/minutes to the Board via email
- Maintain close contact with all officers
- With Members:
- Email updates/reminders to email list all members
- Newsletter Bi-monthly
- Distribute newsletter via email and/or post on web
- Respond to appropriate phone or email questions about PALS
- Email updates/reminders to email list all members
- With PAT Liaisons, EC Principals, and Building Secretaries
- Provide PALS contact information
- Coordinate communication regarding idea, issues, and policies
- Provide PALS contact information
Meetings: prepare and lead officer board meetings
- Create agenda
- Provide Copies of agenda electronically and paper form as preferred by members.
- Open access to minutes from previous meeting
- Conduct meetings, or appoint someone to run meetings in absence.
Appointment of Officers
- Responsible for overseeing the appointment of all new and returning officers. This includes an annual review of all positions each Spring to ensure positions are filled for the following school year.
- In the case of an officer moving or resigning, appoint a replacement for the remainder of the year. A special election can be held during spring elections for any open elected positions.
Social Events and Outings: finalize activities calendar with FHSD EC Administrator
- With the officers, plan and coordinate social events and outings. Check Dates with PAT calendar and building calendars.
- Attend events, as you are able. If unable to attend, ask at least one officer to oversee event/outing.
Financial Matters
- Hold account and coordinate appropriate purchases and financial matters
- PALS has a free business checking account at U.S. Bank. The President, Treasurer, Vice-President, and Secretary are able to sign checks. Another substantial officer (i.e. Fundraising Coordinator) may be added to the account names if deemed necessary. This will be determined at the beginning of the school year at the discretion of the President.
- The President and Treasurer have Debit Cards for controlled expenditures. If for some reason an approved purchase is made without the use of the debit card all receipts must be turned in for reimbursement within 15 days of purchase. All Debit/ATM Card receipts must also be turned into the Treasurer within 30 days of use.
- PALS has a free business checking account at U.S. Bank. The President, Treasurer, Vice-President, and Secretary are able to sign checks. Another substantial officer (i.e. Fundraising Coordinator) may be added to the account names if deemed necessary. This will be determined at the beginning of the school year at the discretion of the President.
- Work out a system with the Treasurer to maintain checks and balances with the account.
Publicity
- Coordinate creation of flyers for summer, fall, winter, and spring events for PAT newsletter and building bulletin boards. A flyer for the PAT handbook will also need to be created in the spring for the following school year.
- Be sure bulletin boards are updated periodically by contacting the Site Based Team member from each ECC.
- Serve as primary contact to FHSD administration and represent PALS at PAT and other appropriate school district groups
- Create a PALS membership sign up and disburse to create interest and gain increased volunteers.
Vice PresidentDuties: The Vice President will serve as fill-in for president as needed, help formulate the group’s long-range goals and activities, and participate in decision making. The VP may also focus on other officer position responsibilities that suit their talents (i.e. communications, volunteers, etc).
Responsibilities include:
Assist the president
- Accept delegated responsibility
- Lead meetings in President’s absence
Assist in obtaining necessary resources (volunteers, supplies, and donations) to facilitate group functions
PALS Support
- participate in planning and executing PALS events and functions
- officers are expected to help plan 1-2 social events/ playtimes a year
- officers are expected to participate in set-up, clean-up, and running PALS events as available
- officers are expected to help plan 1-2 social events/ playtimes a year
- attend officer meetings
SecretaryDuties: The secretary’s responsibilities include both record-keeping and communications to support the officer board, members, and PALS event attendees.
Responsibilities include:
- Coordinate Membership/Registered Families Activities
- As members join throughout the year, enter registration data into the database.
- Periodically review and update membership materials
- As members join throughout the year, enter registration data into the database.
- Record Keeping
- Take minutes during PALS board meetings.
- Type and submit minutes to the President for editing and reviewing.
- Submit minutes to members upon request.
- Take minutes during PALS board meetings.
- Correspondence
- Helps get word out to members and prospective volunteers about upcoming meetings, events and volunteer opportunities
- Sends thank-you notes, sympathy cards and birthday wishes
- Helps get word out to members and prospective volunteers about upcoming meetings, events and volunteer opportunities
- PALS Support
- participate in planning and executing PALS events and functions
- officers are expected to plan 1-2 social events/playtimes a year
- officers are expected to participate in set-up, clean-up, and running PALS events as available
- Attend officer meetings
- officers are expected to plan 1-2 social events/playtimes a year
- participate in planning and executing PALS events and functions
Fundraising CoordinatorDuties: The primary function of the fundraising coordinator is to plan and conduct fundraisers to raise money for the PALS general fund and for the PALS Hardship Scholarship Fund.
Responsibilities include:
- Planning 3 to 4 Fundraising activities
- Work with President and other officers to plan additional fundraisers as needed.
- Assist with advertising
- Work with President and other officers to plan additional fundraisers as needed.
- Letters From Santa
- Coordinate with other officers to send personalized Letters From Santa to preschool families who sign up.
- Coordinate with other officers to send personalized Letters From Santa to preschool families who sign up.
- Fundraising ideas should be gathered and presented to the Board for discussion and approval. The Board should be periodically updated on fundraising activities.
- All funds raised must be submitted to the Treasurer in a timely manner.
- A fundraising report should be presented at each PALS general meeting.
- PALS Support
- participate in planning and executing PALS events and functions
- officers are expected to plan 1-2 social events/playtimes a year
- officers are expected to participate in set-up, clean-up, and running PALS events as available
- officers are expected to plan 1-2 social events/playtimes a year
- attend bi-monthly officer meetings
TreasurerDuties: The PTO treasurer is the custodian of the parent group’s funds. The treasurer helps develop the budget, collects fundraising money, writes checks for purchases and reimbursements, tracks income and spending, makes financial reports, and organizes the books for annual audit.
Responsibilities include:
- Accept cash and checks for deposit and deposit in bank in a timely manner.
- Balance checkbook against bank statements Bi-monthly and keep track of expenditures against the budget created at the beginning of the school year.
- Create a yearly budget as a guide for activities planned throughout the year. The budget shall be voted on during the first PALS board meeting of the year.
- Report balance, budget and actuals at Board meetings or by request.
- File PALS nonprofit taxes in August for the previous year.
- Work in concert with PALS officers to accurately track monies in PALS Ledger (excel spreadsheet or written format) for future reference.
- Order new checks or deposit slips as needed.
- Maintain liability insurance for PALS through PTO today. Annual premiums are due in October of each year and will be sent via USPS to Central School ECC.
- Collect and develop a report of information for Angie Saxor at FHSD regarding PALS yearly budget and officer information. Angie’s request will be sent to the PALS President in August for completion.
- Budget and handle requests for the PALS Hardship Funds. Requests will come periodically from the ECC’s. Requests should be reviewed and voted on by the Board either electronically or at bimonthly meetings when convenient. See scholarship and hardship award section for award details. The Treasurer must keep a running total of scholarships awarded. PALS Hardship Scholarship and Hardship Funds Applications and Guidelines to be reviewed annually and updated as needed. Susan Lane (FHSD) will coordinate the update of the scholarship application and publication to all ECC’s.
- Update signers on the PALS Checking Account annually (or as needed). Signers are listed under the President’s section and may change at the discretion of the Board. All signers will need to be present at the bank change.
- Missouri Department of Revenue Taxation Division should be notified of any change of officers. Complete Form 1746R for any Treasurer Officer changes or change of PALS address.
- PALS Support
- participate in planning and executing PALS events and functions
- officers are expected to plan 1-2 social events/playtimes a year
- officers are expected to participate in set-up, clean-up, and running PALS events as available
- officers are expected to plan 1-2 social events/playtimes a year
- attend officer meetings
- participate in planning and executing PALS events and functions
PALS Tuition Scholarship Guidelines
1. The child is currently enrolled in a Francis Howell preschool.
2. Applications are submitted to the Administrative Assistants at the ECC on a rolling basis. The deadline date will be in accordance with the Preschool’s payment schedule.
3. Each applicant will be assigned a number by the Early Childhood Center. Central will start with 100, Hackmann will start with 200, and Meadows will start with 300. PALS will be given NO personal information on the applicants.
4. All applications will be reviewed by the Board and a determination will be made related to who will receive the scholarship money. PALS is able to provide up to six scholarships per month based on monetary availability.
5. Scholarship will fully fund one month’s tuition (for two half days per week).
6. Scholarships are funded on a month-to month basis, as funds are available.
7. Repeat applicants should contact the Administrative Assistant each month to request funding for the next month.
8. If funds are not available to fully fund a month’s tuition, a partial scholarship may be awarded.
Francis Howell School District
P.A.L.S. Preschool Helping Hands
Hardship Assistance Application
This application must be resubmitted and reviewed each month.
Parent Name_____________________________ Date _____________
Address ___________________City _____________Zip Code ________
Total number in household ________ Adults________ Children ________
Children Requesting Scholarships for Preschool
Name _________________________________ Date of Birth ______________
Name _________________________________ Date of Birth ______________
Is your child attending the preschool at this time? Yes ______ No ________
Month Requested _________________
Do you qualify and receive childcare assistance from Division of Family Services?
Yes __________ No ___________
______________________________________________________________________
I hereby certify that all of the above information is true and correct. I understand that I may be asked to verify income if requested by the district. Falsification of information may lead to discontinuation of services.
Signature of adult family member _______________________________Date _______________
This application is under consideration. You will be contacted concerning your application as soon as it is reviewed.
For Early Childhood Family Education Center Use Only
Francis Howell School District
P.A.L.S. Preschool Helping Hands
Hardship Assistance Application (Cont’d.)
Days of enrollment Child 1: (Circle) M T W Th F
Cost of tuition: ___________
Days of enrollment Child 2: (Circle) M T W Th F
Cost of tuition: ___________
Reason for Request: Explain nature of hardship
_________ Change of circumstance-hardship
Explanation: ___________________________________________________________
______________________________________________________________________________
______________________________________________________________________________
______________________________________________________________________________
______________________________________________________________________________
I hereby certify that all of the above information is true and correct. I understand that I may be asked to verify income if requested by the district. Falsification of information may lead to discontinuation of services.
This application is under consideration. You will be contacted concerning your application as soon as it is reviewed.
Early Childhood Family Education Center Scholarship ID Number____________________
For PALS Office Use Only
______ Information Verified Qualified Weekly Amount $______________
______ Financial Assistance Received
PALS Hardship Assistance Guidelines
1. The Family is currently living in Francis Howell School District and has one or more children ages 0-5 year (s) of age.
2. Applications are filled out and submitted to PALS Board. Applications are typically submitted by FHSD ECC, but other organizations can submit for review.
3. Each applicant will be assigned a number by the Early Childhood Center. Central will start with 100, Hackmann will start with 200, and Meadows will start with 300. PALS will be given NO personal information on the applicants.
3. All applications will be reviewed by the Board and a determination will be made related to if the assistance can be given and how much. Hardship funds will be distributed based on family need, amount of applicants and funds available.
4. Repeat applicants should contact the original organization that filled out the application to request additional funding.
8. If funds are not available to fully fund hardship need, partial funds may be awarded. Full amount is not guaranteed and is based on discretion of board approval and fund availability.
Date: _________ Hardship Fund ID Number: ___
Francis Howell School District
P.A.L.S.
Hardship Assistance Application
To be filled out by organization requesting funds for the family & returned to PALS representative for review.
Name of Organization Requesting Funding for Family:_____________________
Contact Information for Organization Requesting Funds:
Name:_______________________________
Email:_______________________________
Phone:______________________________
Reason for Request: Explain Nature of Hardship ______________________________________________________________________
______________________________________________________________________
______________________________________________________________________
Total number in household: _____ Adults:_____ Children: ________
Funding Needs:
Amount requested: $___________
Intended Use for Funds:__________________________________________________
Payment Type Preference:________________________________________________
Person/organization to make out Payment:____________________________________
Where to send it:________________________________________________________
I hereby certify that all of the above information is true and correct. Falsification of information may lead to discontinuation of services.
This application is under consideration. You will be contacted concerning your application as soon as it is reviewed.
Signature verifying family would benefit from financial assistance at this time:_____________________________________ Date: ___________
For PALS Office Use Only
______ Information Verified Amount $______________
______ Financial Assistance Received
