Can the PTA offer teachers a stipend to purchase classroom supplies such as art paper or books, if receipts are provided?
Yes. However, develop a list of approved purchases that will benefit all children in the classroom. Do not give money up-front, but always require receipts in order to reimburse the teacher. You may also set up an approved mini grant program that allows teachers to apply directly to the PTA for supplies needed. A committee should be appointed by the president to administer the program and a teacher should also be on the committee. Set aside an amount of money for the grant program; inform the teachers of the program; set a date for applications to be submitted; the committee selects recipients and with executive board approval “grants” the requests. The committee may decide to grant the full request, part of the request, or none of the request. Be firm that teachers must submit a bill, receipt or a purchase order for all purchases/reimbursements.
