Back-to-School Checklist ✔️

1. Sign up for the website, or update your existing information

New PTO Members: Sign Up for Our Free Website

Our PTO website—Membership Toolkit—allows you to receive important communication, purchase event tickets, order spirit wear, sign up to volunteer, access the online directory, and more!

Become a Member

Returning PTO Members: Update Your Student's Grade and Teacher in the Directory

To receive School Store items, sign up for Afterschool Enrichment Clubs, and see relevant forms for your student, you must update your student's grade and homeroom teacher in the directory. Here's how to do it:

Step 1. Go to your directory page (you may receive a prompt to log in first). Use the "Update My Directory Information" button below as a shortcut.

Step 2: Review your information on the first page and make any updates as needed. You are not done yet! Then scroll down and hit "Next Step>" at the bottom right of the page.

Step 3: Update your student's information by following the steps on the page. When you are done, hit the "Save" button on the bottom right.

Update My Directory Information

2. MArk your calendar for upcoming events

View All Events 

3. Complete your VIPS for the 25/26 School year

Register with HISD Volunteers in Public Schools (also known as VIPS) as soon as possible to save time before your first volunteer event!

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Every new school year requires a new VIPS approval, so be sure to visit HISD's VIPS page to complete your training and registration.

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Once you are approved, you will receive an email confirmation and the school will be able to see your approval in their system when you arrive to volunteer.

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HISD VIPS

4. Download the new Communication app, Parentsquare

Houston ISD is thrilled to launch ParentSquare, a new platform to connect families and schools. ParentSquare will be the primary way HISD and campuses share important information with families.

As we transition, platforms like SchoolMessenger and ClassDojo will be sunset, and ParentSquare will take their place. 

ParentSquare provides a safe way for district administrators, school principals, teachers, staff, and parents to send and receive information, such as:  

• Weather-related closings & delays   
• Urgent safety information 
• School and class information  
• Calendar items  
• Upcoming class activities  

ParentSquare

5. Download the school cafe app to see school menus

Did you know that Parker offers free breakfast and lunch to all students?

Find all of the school meal information you need right at your fingertips. The app and 🔗website enables you to access the most updated school menus, nutrition information for every food item offered, allergens and more from the convenience of your mobile device or computer.

School Cafe