What does the Oregon PTO do?
We organize, fund and contribute to the programs listed below. Art Fair At this annual festival, students display individual and class art projects. In addition to the artwork on display, students present choral, instrumental and dance performances. All who attend enjoy hands-on art projects and demonstrations. The Art Fair, usually held during the Oregon School District Fine Arts Week in late April, is open to the community. ![]() Art in the Classroom Parent volunteers present the works of different artists to students in their classes. Some classes also take fieldtrips to the Elevehjem Museum of Art in Madison. Artist in Residence Artists from a variety of disciplines work with students and teachers on special projects. Past Artists in Residence include: Mary Ellen Graf, Creative Dramatics, 2002-03 Leotha Stanley, Musician, 2001-02 at NKE Marilea Groves, Artist, 2000-01 at NKE Cheryl Bauers, Landscape Architect, 2000-01 at PVE Assemblies Each year, the PTO arranges a variety of performances for students at PVE and NKE. In 2002-03, there were six assemblies, including: The Truly Remarkable Loon, juggler and comedian (10/02) The UW Physics Department presented “Science is Fun” (11/02) The MadHatters, A Cappella group from UW-Madison (1/03) Irish Dancers (grades 2-4); folksingers Casey Day and Greg Matysik (grades K-1) (3/03) “Call for Peace” African Drummers and Dancers (4/03) Novel Ideas, actors from NYC who act out skits written by PVE & NKE students (5/03) Asset Development: Safety camp The PTO contributes $1,500 a year to “Safety Camp” run by the Oregon Police Department. Approximately 120 second and third graders attend the camp each June, where they learn how to handle situations such as gun, bike, and water safety. Kindergarten Books All new kindergarteners receive a free book, donated by the PTO, to welcome them to school. Operation Joy Annual toy and coat drive for families in need over the holidays. Reading Incentive Program Hooked on Books at Prairie View. This reading incentive program involves all grade levels. The hope is to begin good habits of daily practice with reading for enjoyment at home. At the end of the program there is a fun awards ceremony. ![]() Science Fair Future scientists display individual and class science projects at the Science Fair. Real, working scientists volunteer at the Fair, evaluating projects and giving feedback. Hands-on science demonstrations and activities round out this fun and educational event. ![]() ![]() SPARC – School, Parent, and Reading Connection Fourth graders can check out SPARCS backpacks filled with books, games and educational activities related to Reading, Mathematics, Science and Social Studies topics. Twenty different backpacks are available with subjects including Geology, Weather, Architecture, the Human Body, Explorers and much more. STAR Book Bags STAR backpacks are filled with books, games and educational activities to get second and third grade children hooked on reading. Each STAR book bag follows a specific theme, such as Magic, Grandparents, Wisconsin, or Sports, for example. Staff Requests/Teacher Requests Teachers and school staff can request educational materials from the PTO. Over the last several years, for example, the PTO has purchased AlphaSmarts keyboards, books, and playground equipment based on staff requests. ![]() Staff Appreciation The PTO Social Committee oversees several staff appreciation events, including Teacher Potlucks during Parent Teacher conferences, and staff appreciation lunches at NKE and PVE in May. |