When Mahomet residents, especially those with school aged children hear about the PTO’s work, they automatically think of the PTO that serves students in grades K-5. You know, the ones who do the Dawg Walk.
But for many years, a small group of quiet workers in the Mahomet-Seymour Secondary Schools PTO have made sure junior high and high school students have what they need throughout the school year, too.
Because the junior high and high school have additional organizations that provide support to the athletic, drama and music programs, the Mahomet-Seymour Secondary Schools PTO sometimes gets lost.
But with funds raised through sales of a student directory at the junior high and high school and an academic planner at the high school they provide recognition to the academic accomplishments of students and to the hard work of secondary education teachers.
Families who have watched their child be inducted into the National Honor Society may have enjoyed a cookie or a drink provided by the PTO after the ceremony as they visited with loved ones. The PTO also provides refreshments after seniors receive scholarships or recognition for their achievements during Senior Awards Night.
Recognizing student accomplishments, the PTO provides academic letters to students at Mahomet-Seymour High School, too.
Secondary teachers also enjoy a lunch the PTO provides during teacher appreciation week and during parent-teacher conferences in the fall and spring. They also bring snacks for students to enjoy during PARCC testing.
A few years ago, the PTO decided to allow students a chance to design the cover of the planner. The chosen design receives $50, and the group said they have seen how that design opportunity has positively affected students as they apply for college.
The group also donates to the post prom and covers the cost of cap and gowns for graduating seniors who cannot afford the required attire.
With the end of the school year, the PTO is looking for new members to join their team. The already small group anticipates losing three of its five members as some students have graduated high school
The Mahomet-Seymour Secondary Schools PTO is a quaint group with a minimal commitment, meeting four or five times throughout the year.
Current members said they joined because they wanted to keep a pulse on the school environment as their children got older. Meetings often include input from both principals, and the group members have enjoyed hearing their input.
But each of the PTO members said they have enjoyed being in the group over the last five or six years because of the friendships they have formed with other group members.
If you are interested in becoming a part of this organization, please contact the Mahomet-Seymour PTO through their Facebook page.
