The Demopolis City Schools PTA has some lofty goals for the 2005-2006 school year, but they are goals President Yancena Perry thinks they can achieve.

“We are trying to increase our membership this year to 400,” she said. “It was down to 99 last year.”

Perry said PTA membership carries some nice benefits, aside from being involved with a child’s school.

“All PTA members will receive a discount card good for local merchants,” she said. “We have about 20 Demopolis merchants participating and are trying to get more. They offer 5 and 10 percent discounts, buy one get one free, things like that.”

The gift cards, which will go out about the end of September, will be given to all PTA members, existing and new.

For those who join before the end of September, their children at the elementary schools will be invited to a special Pizza Party. For children who are at the Middle School or High School, they will receive a coupon for one free personal pan pizza from Pizza Hut. Their name will also go in a drawing for two tickets to the Demopolis High School homecoming game. One winner from each school will receive a pair of tickets.

“This is a great Demopolis City Schools organization,” Perry said, noting that the PTA helps with a lot of great projects throughout the year, including fundraisers and other events.

“Membership is $5 per individual and $10 for family – that is someone who has two or more children in school,” she said. “We’re hoping to triple our membership this year.

This year’s PTA is already starting its fundraising, with packets going home to children at Westside and U.S. Jones on Wednesday. A meeting had been planned for tonight, but has been postponed because of the weather.

“The fundraiser will kick off Wednesday with a magic show at U.S. Jones at 9 a.m. and one at Westside at 1:15 p.m.,” Perry said. She said the fundraiser will continue through Sept. 14.

“The money will be go to teachers for ink cartridges for printers and laminating paper,” Perry said. “We are also hoping to be able to purchase a new PA system for school events.”

Parents should be on the lookout for the packets Wednesday. PTA membership forms can be picked up in the school offices. For more information, contact Perry at 289-5351.