This year the Paideia School 15 PTA in Yonkers implemented a multi-channel, community-centered approach to increase membership. By combining in-person engagement, digital outreach, and strong collaboration with school administration, they were able to reach families in numerous meaningful and accessible ways.
First, they leveraged social media platforms to consistently promote PTA membership, events, and impact. In addition to sharing posts highlighting the benefits of joining the PTA, they also posted reminders about membership deadlines and links to join, helping to reach busy families quickly and keep PTA consistently in their viewpoint. Their Welcome Back BBQ served as a key kickoff event for membership recruitment, creating a welcoming, informal environment for new and returning families. This initiative built early-year momentum and established personal connections that encouraged sign-ups. Membership messaging was also tied into spirit wear sales, by promoting school pride alongside PTA involvement and using spirit wear distribution as another touchpoint to engage families.
During open houses, the PTA shared information about how membership directly benefits students and school programs, as well as clear instructions on how to join. Coupled with several new activities, including a spin the wheel game offering small incentives and prizes and “Chat with a PTA Member” sessions, the PTA’s direct, clear messaging helped make engagement fun and approachable, especially for families who might not otherwise initiate interaction.
Workshops for families and staff and strong collaboration with building administrators were also integral in the success of the Paideia School 15 PTA this year, as streamlined communication through the school’s channels proved to be quite impactful. They not only created opportunities for meaningful engagement beyond fundraising but also positioned the PTA as a resource and partner in education.
By combining visibility, personal connection, and consistent communication, they successfully built stronger relationships between families, staff, and the PTA, allowing them to surpass their membership goal by more than 100 members.
Website: https://www.yonkerspublicschools.org/o/paideia15/page/school-ptsa
Instagram/Facebook: https://www.instagram.com/paideia15pta/
Givebacks: https://paideiaschool15pta.givebacks.com/
