Linden’s PTOs and PTAs welcome families, build connections and rally support for students.

LINDEN PUBLIC SCHOOLS, NJ (Sept. 23) — Parent leaders and volunteers brought school spirit and plans for the year ahead to Linden’s Back-to-School Nights, welcoming families at colorful tables, registering parents, selling T-shirts and promoting upcoming fundraisers.

Their presence spotlighted the role of parent-teacher organizations and associations as a heartbeat of the district, connecting families with educators and turning volunteer time into support for students. Those partnerships bring Linden’s Strategic Priority 5 to life, starting with an invitation to get involved.

Before the First Bell

Their support began before students arrived. Some PTOs and PTAs organized breakfasts and lunches during administrative and staff orientation activities, including building-level teacher orientations the day before school opened.

The meals welcomed employees as they prepared for the year ahead. By Back-to-School Night, parent volunteers were extending that same spirit to families.

From School Pride to Participation

During the first week of Back-to-School Nights, parent representatives shared plans for 2026-27 and encouraged families to take part. Some offered giveaways. Others launched fundraising efforts or registered parents eager to connect.

For new families, a stop at the table offered a place to begin. Returning parents could discover another way to contribute.

Those exchanges help turn a building full of classrooms into a connected school community. They create opportunities for families to share ideas, support educators and help shape students’ experiences.

A Shared Investment in Students

Fundraising is one part of that work. Depending on each group’s priorities, parent organizations can support classroom resources, enrichment experiences, family activities and staff appreciation efforts.

They also strengthen communication between home and school, bringing parents’ perspectives into conversations about school life. Every contribution matters, whether it is organizing an event, attending a meeting or sharing a skill.

That involvement reflects Relationships, a pillar of Linden’s ROAR initiative, and the district’s mission of empowering learners through collaboration and growth. It also advances Strategic Priority 5: Community and Stakeholder Partnership, which calls for meaningful partnerships that support student success and district initiatives.

As Back-to-School Nights continue, families are encouraged to connect with their school’s PTO or PTA and explore opportunities to participate.

The colorful tables mark a beginning. The relationships built around them can support students all year.