Description
This is a quick reference for all the technology tools used across the Montclair PTAs. Bookmark this page for when you encounter a tool you’re not familiar with.
PTA-Managed Platforms
- WordPress (PTA Website): Where all PTA content lives — events, news, resources. Edited with Beaver BuilderBeaver Builder is the drag-and-drop tool used to design and edit pages on the PTA website. You don't need to know any code to use it..
- GivebacksGivebacks is the online system your PTA uses to manage memberships, run an online store, send newsletters, and stay in compliance with NJ PTA requirements.: Membership management, online store, newsletters, and NJ PTA compliance.
- Google WorkspaceGoogle Workspace is a set of online tools (email, file storage, documents, spreadsheets) provided for PTA business. It's separate from any school-provided Google accounts.: Email, file storage (Shared Drives), Google Docs, Sheets, Forms, and Calendar.
Other Tools You Might See
- Canva: Free design tool for creating flyers, posters, social media graphics, and newsletters.
- Zoom / Google Meet: Video calls for virtual PTA meetings or events.
- Zelle / PayPal / Apple Pay: Ways to collect money outside of Givebacks (e.g., for quick reimbursements).
- Cheddar Up / Eventbrite / SignUp Genius: Event management and sign-up tools.
- MailChimp: Some PTAs use this for email newsletters (Givebacks also has built-in newsletters).
- Tally / JotForm / Google Forms: Online forms for surveys, RSVPs, and volunteer sign-ups.
- WhatsApp / SMS: Quick real-time chat between volunteers.
- Instagram / Facebook: Social media outreach (remember POSSEPOSSE stands for "Publish on your Own Site, Syndicate Elsewhere." It means: put your content on the PTA website first, then share it to email, social media, etc.: post on the website first!).
How to Use
You don’t need to learn all of these at once. Start with the three main platforms (Website, Givebacks, Google Workspace) and pick up the others as needed for specific events or projects.