How to implement k-12 CDC guidelines with Givebacks

The short read

• Schools and parent groups can adapt to changing health and safety guidelines by shifting membership drives, meetings, events, and fundraising efforts online.

• Virtual fundraising provides a flexible way to raise money when traditional school events, festivals, and large gatherings are limited or restricted.

• Online membership sales, digital communications, and virtual engagement tools help PTAs and PTOs keep families connected and involved throughout the school year.

• Platforms like Givebacks enable schools to manage memberships, fundraising, family communications, and community engagement in one place.

‍

The long read

As we look ahead to the new school year with some uncertainty as to what types of activities and events will be safe to run, recently released CDC guidelines for K-12 schools have given some direction and guidance around limiting in-person contact. Obviously PTAs and other-parent teacher groups are affected by these guidelines, so here are the advisements you need to be aware of:

• Pursue virtual group events, gatherings, or meetings if possible and promote social distancing of at least six feet between people if events are held. Limit group size to the extent possible.

• Limit any nonessential visitors, volunteers, and activities involving external groups or organizations as possible, especially with individuals who are not from the local geographic area (e.g., community, town, city, country).

• Pursue virtual activities and events in lieu of field trips, student assemblies, special performances, school-wide parent meetings, and spirit nights, as possible.

• Pursue options to convene sporting events and participation in sports activities in ways that minimizes the risk of transmission of COVID-19 to players, families, coaches, and communities.

• Put systems in place for notifying staff, families, and the public of school closures and any restrictions in place to limit COVID-19 exposure (e.g., limited hours of operation).

With or without in-person events this year, you can still grow membership, keep families engaged, and raise funds to help your school. Here are a few things you should consider:

Take your membership drive online

Your online store from Givebacks (formerly MemberHub) is preloaded with PTA memberships for partnered states, but any organization can easily add and sell their own memberships in the online store. Shoppers get their membership card in their electronic receipt and their member information is automatically reported to your state PTA. All you have to do is share your store link to get your school community involved.

Hold virtual fundraisers to benefit your school

There are six types of no-contact fundraisers in Givebacks, all with flexible platform fee settings. With traditional fall fests and carnivals not recommended by the CDC, you can move your event online with no cost and no hassle.

Reward parents with savings while your PTA earns

When you subscribe to Product Fundraisers, your organization can place special offers from businesses in your online store and reward families with savings, while you earn up to 20% donated back on every sale. They're no fuss for you and parents get to shop brands they already love while giving back.

Keep your community informed and connected in the new normal

As COVID news and guidance change quickly, you can keep school families instantly informed with Givebacks email and text capabilities that show open rates and allow automatic scheduling. With hubs, you can target specific groups like classrooms, grade levels, and committees. The central school calendar also helps keep your community on the same page. Add your parents now so that you'll be able to easily communicate, with or without in-person learning.