PTO Community

Get Involved. Stay Connected. Make a Difference.

The Samuelson Parent Teacher Organization (PTO) is a group of parents, caregivers, teachers, and staff working together to support our school through community-building, events, and fundraising. Whether you have five minutes or five hours, there's a place for you here!

What is the PTO & Why It Matters

Volunteers helping make Samuelson even better—one event, fundraiser, and act of service at a time.

$8,200
Raised Last Year
10+
Active Volunteers
16
Events Organized
100%
Community Support

Organize family-friendly events

From Family Fun Night to skate nights, we bring families together

Support teachers and classrooms

Providing classroom supplies, staff appreciation, and hands-on support

Fundraise for supplies and programs

Every dollar supports activities that enrich students’ lives

Build a welcoming school community

Creating connections that last beyond the school years

"Last year, we raised $8,200 and used those funds to support our school in fun and meaningful ways — including a new laminator, bounce house rental for Water Day, Skateland skates, teacher appreciation events, staff and student treats on fun days, conference lunches, and gifts for retiring teachers." — Samuelson PTO

Together, we're making a real difference in our children's education.

🌟 Special Opportunity
Learn More

2025–2026 Calendar of Events

Mark your calendars for these exciting community events and opportunities to connect

MAR
06

Family Fun Night

Whole Family Event
Family Fun Night is a favorite Samuelson tradition! Families enjoy an evening of classroom games, a crowd-favorite cake walk, and pizza available for purchase. Volunteers help make this night possible —and this is a great way to get involved.
6:00 PM
Samuelson Elementary
DATE
TBD

Spring Fling

Come & Watch
Spring Fling is one of the most anticipated days of the year! Students enjoy outdoor water games, splashing fun, and a bounce house to celebrate the end of the school year. The PTO funds the bounce house rental and helps make this exciting day safe, refreshing, and full of joy.
Date TBD
Samuelson Elementary
DATE
TBD

Spring Skateland Night

Whole Family Event
Join us for a fun night out at Skate North in Des Moines! Students from Samuelson team up with two other north-side elementary schools for an evening of skating, music, and community. Thanks to generous support from Charles Gabus Ford and the PTO, skate rental is fully covered for all Samuelson students. Food and concessions will be available for purchase at the rink. It’s a great way to connect with friends and kick off the school year with some fun on wheels!
Date TBD
Skateland North
MAY
04

Teacher Appreciation Week

School-Only Event
Help us celebrate our amazing teachers and staff! Throughout the week, we’ll show our gratitude with homemade treats, small gifts, and heartfelt thanks. Whether you love to bake, craft, or simply say thank you, there are lots of ways to get involved and make our staff feel appreciated.
8:00 AM
Teachers' Lounge
DATE
TBD

5th Grade Party

School-Only Event
To celebrate the end of elementary school, 5th graders enjoy a special send-off just for them! This fun event is organized by staff and supported by the PTO, which may help provide food (like pizza) and supplies. It's a great way to honor our graduating students and make lasting memories before they head off to middle school.
Date TBD
Samuelson Elementary

How You Can Get Involved

Options for every schedule and every way you want to contribute

Join the PTO

Become an official member and help shape our community

Time commitment: Monthly meetings
Join Now

Volunteer at Events

Help at festivals, fundraisers, and school activities

Time commitment: A few hours per event
See Opportunities

Help from Home

Make calls, create materials, or organize supplies

Time commitment: Your own schedule
Learn More

Donate Items or Funds

Support our mission with monetary or material donations

Time commitment: One-time or recurring
Donate

Share Ideas & Feedback

Help us improve with your suggestions and insights

Time commitment: Whenever inspiration strikes
Contact Us
💬
"I thought I didn't have time for PTO, but even helping once made me feel more connected to our school community. Now I can't imagine not being involved!"
— Jodi R., Parent of a 4th Grader and Kindergartener
ÍÍ

PTO Meeting Information

Come when you can! We're casual, welcoming, and always happy to see new faces.

Family-Friendly Meetings

Kids welcome - bring the whole family!
Casual atmosphere - come as you are
Can't stay the whole time? Join when you can!
Add All Meetings to Calendar

Event Recaps & Spring Planning

March 10, 2026
6:00 PM - 7:00 PM
School library

Year-End Planning & Board Transition

April 14, 2026
6:00 PM - 7:00 PM
School library

Celebration & Wrap-Up

May 12, 2026
6:00 PM - 7:00 PM
School library

Can't Make It to Meetings?

No problem! We send meeting summaries to all members and there are many other ways to stay connected and contribute.

Help Make a Difference at Samuelson

There’s no one right way to get involved. Whether you can pitch in once, help from home, or take on a key role like Treasurer, we’d love to hear from you! Fill out this quick form and we’ll follow up soon.

What interests you? (select all that apply)

Questions? Contact Us

Email
samuelsonpto@gmail.com
Phone
(515) 988-6648
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