What's the Difference Between the PTA and the Foundation?

The Beverly Cleary K-8 School is committed to improving our students’ educational experience, creating equity and inclusion, and building a strong and engaged community. We are fortunate to have two non-profit, parent-volunteer led organizations to support our diverse community: the Parent Teacher Association (PTA) and a Foundation.

The BCS PTA sponsors classroom projects and community events during the school year, as well as year-long projects including the Reading Challenge, Passport Club, Oregon Battle of the Books (OBOB), Teacher Appreciation Week, middle school events, the school-wide directory, safety committee, and more. The BCS PTA also provides volunteer support for lunch and recess duty, room parents, garden program, and special events. Fundraisers sponsored by the BCS PTA pay for supplies (things) such as library books, classroom equipment, technology, garden education, family services, and teacher grants. Click here to learn more about the BCS PTA.

Through an annual giving campaign, the BCS Foundation raises funds to pay for teachers and assistants (people), that goes beyond the Portland Public Schools (PPS) district annual staffing allocation. This results in reduced class sizes and lower student-teacher ratios, teaching assistants, enrichment programs and more. Foundation funds also positively impact the most vulnerable students in the PPS district, as a portion of all funds raised are distributed to high-need schools though the district equity fund. Click here to learn more about the BCS Foundation.

Together, both organizations work to provide a sense of extended community and support for all.