To: Dickenson County School Board and Ridgeview Elementary School Administration

We, the undersigned parents and community members of Ridgeview Elementary School, are writing to express our concerns regarding the operations and financial practices of the Ridgeview Elementary Parent-Teacher Organization (PTO). It has come to our attention that the PTO currently lacks an approved operating budget, which raises significant concerns about the management and allocation of funds that parents and community members contribute through various fundraising efforts.

As dedicated supporters of our school and its mission, we believe that it is our right to understand how our donations are being utilized. However, we have observed the following issues:

1. **Lack of Financial Transparency:** The PTO has not made its funds approval processes clear to its members or to those who contribute financially. This lack of clarity undermines trust and accountability within our community.

2. **Absence of Financial Reports:** Despite multiple requests from concerned parents for financial transcripts detailing incoming and outgoing expenses, there has been no satisfactory response or documentation provided. This is particularly troubling given the turnover of treasurers and the ongoing requests for transparency.

3. **Right to Information:** Parents and community members who support the PTO deserve to know how their contributions are being spent. It is essential that the PTO operates in alignment with its stated mission and values.

Given these concerns, we urge the Dickenson County School Board and Ridgeview Elementary School Administration to take immediate action to address the following:

- Establish a clear and approved operating budget for the Ridgeview Elementary PTO.
- Implement transparent financial practices that include regular reporting of income and expenditures to all members and stakeholders.
- Ensure that the PTO board is held accountable for its financial management and that all members are informed of the financial status of the organization.

If these issues cannot be resolved under the current PTO board, we call for a reevaluation of the board members' ability to effectively perform their duties. Additionally, if financial transparency and accountability cannot be achieved, we believe that the dissolution of the independent PTO and the formation of an organization under the state-regulated Parent-Teacher Association (PTA) may be necessary. This would provide a framework with more stringent operational and financial guidelines, ensuring greater oversight and accountability.

We, the undersigned, stand together in advocating for a transparent and accountable PTO that serves the best interests of our children and community. We urge all parents and community members to sign this petition in support of our call for action.

Thank you for your attention to this important matter.

Sincerely,

Concerned Parents of this community