Bryan, Benton PTOs collecting box tops to fund projects, purchases

Miss McKlintic, first grade student teacher, teaches a writing lesson using new display technology purchased with Box Tops money. This Elmo technology allows the teacher to project books, lessons and three-dimensional objects onto a large screen while teaching a class lesson.

Nevada, Mo. -- "It's free money. That is what is being offered by General Mills to schools across the country," said Karen Marquardt, PTO member.

The Bryan and Benton Elementary PTOs are asking area citizens to collect box tops for their schools, both of which are taking part in the Box Tops for Education program. Schools turn in box tops coupons for a payout of up to $20,000 per school per year. Box Tops are coupons worth 10 cents that are found on common grocery item, such as Ziplock bags, taco shells, cake mixes, diapers and hundreds of other products include a Box Top coupon on their packaging. Since 2006, our schools have increased the cash amount they have collected from $300 a year to more than $2,500 a year. In the past few years the money has been used to buy swings and tether ball poles for the playground and electronics for the classrooms.

While box tops are appreciated any time of the year, the kindergarten, first and second grades have currently challenged one another to a contest to see who can collect the most by Dec. 5. The winners will celebrate with a Sonic slushie party.

Community collection boxes can be found at the customer service desks at Woods Supermarket and Wal-Mart in Nevada. Individuals or groups may also drop box tops at either school.

For more information on how to become involved in earning free money for Nevada schools, e-mail bryanpto@hotmail.com. Visit Box Tops for Education at btfe.com for a complete list of participating products.