Now that our daughter is in kindergarten we’ve discovered a whole new society. Before we had a child that was in school, we never really saw the elementary school society that has been active all around us. We haven’t really met a ton of people yet (mostly just chit chat), but the school and the PTA have all kinds of activities for us to attend.
Last night we attended a movie night in the gym. The cost to attend the movie was $1 per person and they were also selling popcorn, candy and water. Popcorn and candy was .50 each and the water was a dollar. For a fun night (at least for our daughter) the total cost was $3 for the movie and $1.50 for refreshments.
Before being involved in the school, we would have gone to a movie and spent 5-10 times that amount. Our daughter much preferred going to the school to watch the movie because she got to sit with her new friends and run around a bit.
So, as we try to spend less money, we’ll definitely be involved in most of the school activities. The best part is that the money they raise goes directly to the classrooms to support further activities. It really ends up being a “win/win” situation.
I sorta know what you’re talking about even though our daughter’s only 2. We live right in between an elementary and a middle school (each are 1 block away). There are a ton of kids in the neighborhood and everyone seems to know everyone else. I can’t wait until my daughter starts kindergarten so I have an opportunity to become more involved in the school community instead of a little chit chat at the playground.
This sounds like a fabulous idea. First I like how it builds the role of schools in community involvement. Second it is a great frugal way for schools to make money and keep students/parents involved in what the school does. Great idea!