My post wasn't a PTA vs. PTO statement. I don't see how either has to operate differently than the other. At the local level they are just the same. Both are working to make there school a better place for their children.
My point was that despite what the State and National PTA says the local PTA can fundraise their butt off if they want to.
Actually, Hyway, I don't agree that Mommy2402 is wrong. She's pretty much quoting the official PTA policy--I'd say it's a reluctant embrace of fundraising: go ahead and fundraise, but make sure you let your legislators know that they should be finding money for these wonderful projects so you don't have to fundraise. Here are some direct quotes from the National PTA website, echoed by state PTAs everywhere:
"Before approving proposals for material aid to the school or community, a PTA should consider whether or not the proposed equipment or service is a public responsibility. If a public service is urgently needed and public funds are not immediately available, a PTA may initiate and coordinate the service while encouraging public agencies to take over its financing and operation. In emergencies, PTAs may provide for the pressing needs of children and youth while they work to alert the public to its obligations. A PTA renders a greater service by working to secure adequate funding for programs that have a more enduring benefit than purchasing equipment for schools. PTAs should not contribute to the problem of inequities within a school district by excessive fund-raising."
Realistically, I'd be willing to bet the vast majority of PTAs are like Hyway's and they don't do much (or any) local advocacy. Maybe they stay PTA (as opposed to PTO) because they feel it's important to be part of the "larger voice," or maybe they feel strongly about some of the other resources the PTA offers, like Reflections or the availability of certain Spanish language resources, for example. But I digress....
Mommy2402, your best bet is to pony up the $$ to join the NPN and get their resource guide. The next best (and still useful thing, even if you join NPN) is to find a lawyer who practices corporate or nonprofit law in your state, and see if you can get him/her to donate some time to you to make sure your bylaws meet whatever your state code is. State laws sometimes dictate things like what your quorum can be, and how many days notice you need to give of a meeting. That's the one area you're most likely to screw up without any help.
Our school is a PTA and we are just the opposite. We do no advocating and we do plenty of fundraising so we can buy things for the school and do things for the kids.
whoever told you that is wrong and I suggest you go above or around them. Or run for office on your PTA
First of all, I am new here, so please bear with me! =)
I am here because I have had it with our PTA! I understand that they are ONLY (at least according to our Regional Officer) to advocate for children NOT to fund raise. I also realize that the PTA feels that it is the schools boards responsibility to purchase items for the children. That being said, I believe it is time to start a PTO!!
I have talked with many other parents and they too agree, we need to raise funds for our schools!!
OK, now here's my question:
How do I & where do I begin!!! HELP!!! =)
I have found a wealth of information on this site - THANK YOU! - and was wondering if I could get some insite from those who started from scratch.
