$5 and that it.

I'm a room parent. We ask for $5 contributions instead of sending in paper products/food, etc. I use that towards goody bag type of things or extra food. I don't need hundreds of dollars. $25 is plenty and usually between the donations or the venmo money, that is what I have to spend to fill in the gaps.

Why does there need to be a class party?

They are already wearing costumes to school. Teacher probably has some lightly halloween themed class work planned and a bag of candy to hand out. Thats fun and enough. Kids are going trick-o treating. Many families go to several Halloween events already. Why does school need to do this too? The cheap crafts parents buy for class parties end up straight in the garbage or making a mess in the classroom first, then into the garbage

I was a room parent. I only used the donations I received for the party and didn't go overboard. We were not allowed to bring in food so most money went to supplies for small crafts and games. TBH I thought the parties were lame with no food and it kind of ruined it for the kids.

I've been a room parent in a wealthy area. Lots of people still don't contribute. You should also suggest to your room parent they collect one time up front for all planned parties/gifts.

I always over give after that experience.

They should also give a suggested amount and use language like whatever you can give is great but this is the suggested amount.