Who’s Asking for What?

If you’re a new high school parent, your inbox might already be filling up with donation requests, volunteer sign-up forms, and links to fundraisers from names that all sound kind of… official.

You’re not alone if you’ve asked yourself: “Wait—didn’t I just give money to the school? So… what’s this other group asking for?”

Let’s break it down.

Westmont High School and/or CUHSD

What they handle:
The school and district are responsible for the basics:

* Teacher and staff salaries
* Facilities (classrooms, buildings, restrooms)
* Curriculum and textbooks
* Utilities, maintenance, and operational costs

Basically, the essential infrastructure of education.

But what about all the things that make school feel like more than just… school?

Westmont PTSA (Parent Teacher Student Association)

That’s where we come in.

The PTSA is a completely volunteer-run group of parents (just like you!) who support programs and events that enhance the student experience. We raise funds for:

* Mini grants for teachers (like classroom tools and enrichment materials)
* The Wellness Center
* Senior scholarships & Grad Night
* Parent education speaker events
* Community-building events

The PTSA exists to fill in the gaps, build community, and support every student, every teacher, and every family—not just one program or department.

And we welcome everyone to take part in PTSA activities. To officially count as an active PTSA member, there’s a small annual membership fee that’s set by the California State PTA and National PTA.

But the heart of our work depends on local donations and volunteers and that’s what fuels teacher grants, scholarships, the Wellness Center, and all the extras.

Booster Clubs

You’ll only hear from a booster club if your student is in a specific program—like band, a sport, or another extracurricular activity.

Booster clubs are separate from the PTSA, and they are also run entirely by parent volunteers—just focused on one specific area, like:

* Athletics
* Marching Band
* Theater

Booster clubs raise money for that program’s specific needs—like uniforms, tournament fees, equipment, or travel.

If your child joins one of these programs, the booster club will likely reach out to you with ways to contribute, volunteer, or attend events.

Who Funds What?

Here’s a simple, non-exhaustive breakdown:

Teacher salaries: School/District
Classrooms, utilities, facilities: School/District
Grad Night, scholarships: PTSA
Staff appreciation lunches: PTSA
Band instruments or uniforms: Music Booster Clubs 
Student dances, Wellness Center: PTSA

So… Why All the Requests?

It can feel like a lot, especially at the beginning of the year—but each group plays a different role. And all of them are trying to support your student in different ways.

You’re never obligated to give to every ask. But understanding who’s asking—and why—can help you decide where your time or money makes the most impact.

We hope this breakdown helps make things a little clearer!