Frequently Asked Questions About Odyssey PTA Finances

FAQ #1: What does Odyssey PTA spend parent direct giving and other income fund?

Answer: Parent contributions from direct giving and fundraisers completely fund the field studies and performances, as well as paying for extra curriculum expenses, supplies, and other enrichment activities not financed by Portland Public School funds.

FAQ #2: How does Odyssey create its budget for the school year?

Answer: Odyssey’s financial year runs from July 1 – June 30th. An annual budget is created in late spring, based on the previous years’ budgets, and the upcoming year’s curriculum. The Odyssey PTA with input from teachers ratify the budget at the beginning of the new school year.

FAQ #3: What is the role of the PTA Treasurer?

Answer: The PTA Treasurer helps create the annual budget, manages the PTA’s bank account, and makes sure all spending requests have been approved by a teacher before they are paid and match the budget. The Treasurer provides revenue and expenditure updates at the monthly PTA meeting.

FAQ #4: How do I get reimbursed for an expenditure I’ve made for Odyssey?

Answer:  All expenditures must be approved in advance by the budget holder whose budget will cover the expense. Reimbursement requests must be submitted via the electronic form.  Before you spend money, obtain an email from the teaching staff indicating the expense is approved so that you are assured of reimbursement. All requests must be accompanied with the purchase receipt(s).

Who do I talk to if I have a question about any of the above issues?

Answer: Contact the PTA Treasurer at treasurer@odysseypta.org .