Members of the elementary PTO asked the Cherokee Public Schools board for visibility as they raise $25,000 to install shade on the elementary playground after recent tree removals left the area exposed.

The PTO presentation outlined its mission — supporting students and teachers through volunteer-run events — and listed recent activities including a back-to-school pizza fundraiser, a membership drive, a fall festival booth and weekly "Snap Friday" snack days funded by community sponsors. "Our mission for PTO is helping students rise and teachers thrive," a PTO presenter said, describing the group's volunteer structure and events.

The PTO said it received three vendor quotes for shade structures and is pursuing multiple fundraising streams: weekly snack-day sponsors, family events, local business donations and survey-driven community outreach. The group reported community sponsors are providing popcorn for students and staff and gave an example of a past matching grant in which $3,500 raised was matched by a funder. PTO representatives said they operate under the Pioneer Spirit Foundation and have a contact phone number on their flyer for follow-up.

Board members suggested additional outreach options, including contacting local banks and national retailers such as Walmart. PTO members said they have begun local publicity and encouraged the board to place the PTO request in the board minutes to increase exposure.

The PTO emphasized the fundraising target is large but said early momentum and community donations make them optimistic. They asked the board to note the request in the minutes and to consider any school assistance or publicity that could help recruit sponsors.

The PTO presentation concluded with thanks to the board and a request that community members complete a short online survey the group is using to collect sponsorship leads and volunteer contacts.