We use a platform called Totem (CONFIRM) to manage PTA memberships. You'll be able to sign up online in just a few minutes. [Membership link and details coming soon — we'll post the Totem sign-up here.]

Volunteering with the Horace Mann PTA is flexible — you can give as little or as much time as you'd like. Whether you have one hour a year or a few hours a week, every bit helps and every contribution matters. You can lend a hand at a single event, join a committee, or take on an ongoing role — it's entirely up to you and your schedule. There's no commitment too small, and no help that goes unappreciated. To get started, just email us at hmpta@bhusd.org and we’ll find the right fit for you!

Not at all! All of our events are open to every Horace Mann family, and we'd love to see you there — no membership required. And if you'd like to volunteer, you don't need to be a member to jump in. Just reach out to us at hmpta@bhusd.org and we’ll help you find a way to get involved.

All Horace Mann PTA meetings are open to the public — every parent and caregiver is welcome, and we'd love to see you there. We meet monthly during the school year. You'll find our full meeting schedule on the [Calendar / Events page], along with the time and location for each meeting. No RSVP needed — just show up, listen in, and share your voice.

Horace Mann is a public school, but the extras that make it feel special aren't covered by the school district's budget. The PTA is funded almost entirely by families like yours, so your donation is what allows us to offer a public school education with the feel of a private school experience. Every contribution directly shapes what our kids get to experience each day — and every dollar is carefully stewarded to make the greatest possible impact.

Your support goes directly back to our students, teachers, and community. Contributions help fund:

• Academic enrichment across every grade level, including arts, STEAM, and special education programs that go beyond the standard curriculum

• Community events that bring our families together — the Welcome Back to School event, Multicultural Festival, and Spring Carnival

• Classroom resources and student performances that enrich learning and give kids room to shine

• Staff appreciation efforts that support and celebrate the teachers who show up for our children every day

Together, our contributions enrich each child's education, empower our teachers, and strengthen the community we're all proud to be part of.

Donations are just one way to support our school, and they're never a requirement. Your time and energy are just as valuable as any financial gift. You can help by volunteering at events, joining a committee, spreading the word to other families, or simply showing up and being part of our community.

Every gift to the Horace Mann PTA makes a real difference — and there are a couple of easy ways your generosity can stretch even further.

First, because the PTA is a nonprofit, your donation may be tax-deductible. It's worth holding onto your receipt and checking with your tax advisor come tax season.

Second — and this one is often overlooked — many employers match charitable donations, sometimes dollar-for-dollar. That means your gift could double (or more!) simply by filling out a quick form. Some companies also offer volunteer grants that donate funds when you give your time. It only takes a minute to check with your employer's HR or giving program, and it could make a big impact for our kids at no extra cost to you.

If you're not sure whether your company participates, just ask — you might be pleasantly surprised. And as always, thank you for supporting our school community however you can!

Throughout the year, your room parent may reach out about optional contributions to help support class activities and celebrations. These can include things like:

• Teacher birthdays

• Staff Appreciation Week

• Classroom celebrations and parties

• End-of-year celebration and teacher gift

Are contributions required? Nope! All contributions are completely optional. Every family's participation looks different, and that's totally okay.

How much are contributions typically? It varies, but most contributions fall in the $10–$20 range. Amounts can change depending on the activity or celebration, and your room parent will always share details upfront.

There are always other ways to pitch in! Room parents often need help with things like setting up for parties, donating supplies, or volunteering time. Just let your room parent know you'd like to help — every bit counts.