Terman PTA Mini-Fund Use Guidelines

The Terman PTA has voted to provide Teacher Mini-Funds to every member of the teaching staff.  Mini-Funds have been provided by the PTAs at many Palo Alto elementary and middle schools, and have been very popular.  Mini-Funds are provided to make sure that you don't have to dip into your own pocket to purchase various items for your class.

Your Mini-Find Budget

The 2010-11 budget for most teachers is $300.  Teachers working less than full time will receive a prorated amount in their account that directly correlates to the percentage of time they work (e.g., a teacher working 75% time will receive up to 75% of a full Mini-Fund allotment).  Unfortunately the PTA is not able reimburse you for more than your allocated budget.  If you submit receipts for more than your Mini-Fund budget, you will be reimbursed for only the budget amount.

What Qualifies for Mini-Funds

The primary purpose of the Mini-Fund is to provide money for teachers to use throughout the school year for small and/or consumable items for your classroom.  Some examples include: art supplies for a class project, supplies to support a classroom pet, small games or learning tools, supplies for a classroom experiment, treats for a class party, etc.  You have discretion over how to use your Mini-Fund budget, but please be aware that the PTA intends for the funds to be spent on classroom activities that directly impact students.  

What Does Not Qualify

Your Mini-Fund should not be used for activities outside the classroom (i.e., personal, non-school use).  For larger expenditures on items that will remain in the classroom for more than a year, the PTA encourages teachers to use the PTA teacher grant program instead.

Getting Reimbursed

Prior approval of expenditures is not required, but the PTA does require submission of itemized receipts and a completed PTA Check Request Form for reimbursement.  Fill out the brief form, attach your receipts, and you are ready ready to submit.  You can get reimbursed at any time during the school year, and as often as you like, as long as you stay within your budget. 

Important Deadlines

It is important that you submit your receipts by the end of May each year because the treasurer must balance the PTA accounts June 30.  If you turn in receipts after the end of the school year, you will not be reimbursed.  There is no carryover of any unused PTA Mini-Funds.

More Questions?

If you have additional questions, or want to find out your remaining budget, please contact the PTA Treasurer, Diane Downend.