Don’t Risk It: Insurance Essentials for Parent Teacher Associations (PTA)

October 1, 2025
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Utah PTA is a non-profit, grassroots child advocacy association composed of parents, teachers, and students. As an affiliate of the National PTA, it operates at the local, council, and state levels throughout Utah. Local chapters play a vital role in organizing fundraisers, educational events, and volunteer efforts — all aimed at supporting student success and advocating for strong educational policies. However, with these activities come risks such as accidents, injuries, and misconduct, making proper insurance coverage essential.

It’s important for all K–12 schools and PTA leaders to understand that the Utah Division of Risk Management does not provide liability or property insurance coverage for PTAs or PTOs. PTAs must obtain and maintain their own insurance policies to protect against potential losses. While parents designated as official school volunteers are covered during school-sponsored activities, that coverage does not extend to PTA functions. The Utah PTA Administrative VP Handbook strongly recommends every PTA maintain General Liability insurance at limits consistent with governmental tort liability standards. Additional types of coverage — such as Medical Payments, Excess Accident, Directors & Officers Liability, Crime Insurance, and Property Insurance — help protect PTA leaders, members, and assets. Schools also require liability insurance for any PTA-hosted events held on school property that fall outside regular school activities. Since legal requirements and coverage limits may change annually, it’s critical that PTAs stay informed and properly insured.

Click on the “Read More” button below to learn more about what types of coverage apply and when you need to go the extra mile to keep your schools and district protected.