Northeast PTA

Frequently asked questions

What the PTA does, how to join and help, what happens each year, and who to call at school.

About us

What is the Northeast PTA?

The PTA connects parents, caregivers and teachers at Northeast. We raise money and organize volunteers for events and programs that help our children learn and grow beyond the regular curriculum.

Family events

Film on the Field, the Fall Heritage Festival, the Geography Bee and the Talent Show.

Learning

After-school enrichment classes, in-school assemblies and field trip support.

Teachers

Classroom grants, teacher appreciation and professional development.

School improvements

Air conditioning, 5th grade lockers, awnings, picnic tables and more.

Joining

How do I join, and what does it cost?

Parents & caregivers

$20

per family, per school year

Faculty & staff

$5

per school year

Membership gives you a vote in PTA elections and on the budget, and connects you with committees and volunteer roles. Family events are free.

Join the PTA

Volunteering

How can I help?

There's a role for every schedule. Most people start by helping at one event; that's also the best way to become a committee chair later.

Event volunteer

Pick the events that suit you: Film on the Field setup, the Heritage Festival, the Book Fair, backstage at the Talent Show.

2–4 hours an event

Class parent

Organize class activities and teacher gifts, keep families in the loop and help recruit volunteers. Usually two per class.

Monthly meeting + class emails

Committee chair

Run an event or program: plan it, recruit volunteers, and manage its budget and timeline with the board.

Varies by event

Share a skill

Design flyers, take photos at events, help with social media or tech setup.

Flexible, by project
Email us to volunteer Class parent signup

Events

What does the PTA run each year?

For families

  • Film on the FieldAn outdoor movie night on the school field. Bring blankets and snacks.
  • Fall Heritage FestivalCelebrating fall, our community and our global heritage.
  • Spring family dance
  • MLK Day of ServiceFamilies volunteer together in January.

For students

  • After School EnrichmentClasses in the fall and spring.
  • In-school assembliesPrograms during the school day.
  • Geography BeeOur Global Magnet signature team competition.
  • Talent ShowRoom for every child and any talent, plus a 5th grade presentation.

Fundraisers

  • Northeast GalaOur biggest fundraiser of the year.
  • SoccerthonA World Cup-style spring tournament.
  • Book Fair & Pancake BreakfastA week in the library, ending with breakfast.
  • SpiritwearSchool clothing, all year.

Beyond events, the PTA pays for field trip buses, teacher grants and birthday books. Dates are on the Northeast calendar.

How it works

How does the PTA work?

Who decides how the money is spent?
The PTA board proposes the budget, and members vote on it at an open meeting early in the school year. Any member can come and take part. Most spending goes to in-school events and assemblies that reach every student.
Where does the money come from?
Membership dues and fundraisers: the Gala, Spiritwear, Soccerthon, After School Enrichment, and the 5th grade committee's own fundraising.
When are board elections?
Nominations and voting for the next year's board usually happen in June. Membership is open to all parents, caregivers and teachers; only current members can vote.
How does the PTA work with the school?
We meet with the principal every week or two and share calendars so events can use school space. Mrs. Pugliese in the main office is our key contact and helps parents every day.
Can teachers join?
Yes, for $5. Teachers are full members: they can come to events, volunteer, chair committees, and work with class parents on classroom activities.
What has the PTA paid for?
Air conditioning, 5th grade lockers, awnings and tents, picnic tables and benches, the 4-square court painting, and confidential help for students in financial need.
What doesn't the PTA do?
We don't set curriculum or run classes, and we don't get involved in decisions about what's taught. Our job is building community and supporting the school.

Partners

What are MFEE, SEPAC, PTAC and SATP?

MFEE Montclair Fund for Educational Excellence
Funds grants for Montclair teachers and students. Our MFEE liaisons help Northeast teachers apply for grants for projects, training and social-emotional programs.
SEPAC Special Education Parent Advisory Council
Works to improve special education and inclusion across the district. One or two Northeast parents attend its meetings for us.
PTAC Montclair PTA Council
All the Montclair PTA presidents together. Our president meets with PTAC and district leaders each month.
SATP School Action Team for Partnerships
Families, teachers and community partners who review the School Improvement Plan: curriculum, achievement, family engagement and more.
Fifth Grade Committee
Raises money for 5th grade graduation events and trips with the mum sale, a car wash and event concessions.
Teacher Toasts
Evenings hosted by class parents to celebrate teachers, raising money for MFEE.

School contacts

Who do I contact at school?

Northeast Elementary School

603 Grove Street, Montclair, NJ 07043

School day

8:10 – 2:35

Delayed opening

10:10

Early dismissal

1:10

Main office

973-509-4242

People

Online

Print the Fridge Facts sheet (PDF)

Question not answered here? Email NortheastPTA@northeastpta.org.