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!
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
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! You will need to do this if you plan to attend field trips or any other school event.
Every new school year requires a new VIPS approval, so be sure to visit HISD's VIPS page to complete your training and registration. Registration for the 25/26 school year opens on August 11. If you register too early, you will need to complete your registration again.
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. When volunteering, you must present a valid ID.
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
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.
6. Follow Parker PTO Social Media
Join Parker PTO's Facebook page to receive updates about upcoming events and other reminders. Be sure to follow us on Instagram too.
7. Sign up to Volunteer!
Looking to get involved? We have plenty of events to volunteer for: Back to School Kickoff, PTO Meeting support, and more!
