First, if you have a group of parents who are trying to start a separate parent organization because they don't like what's going on or feel shut out in some way, I guess I would first try to determine why they feel this way. Maybe it's just a matter of education and communication. Secondly, you may want to check with your school district administration. Most districts limit each school to one official parent organization.

Do you want to start a PTO in addition to the PTA your school already has or do you want to switch? As far as your principal's approval, it is not necessary, but having the administrator's support makes it much easier for your organization to carry out its mission.

HOW DOES A PTO START UP DOES IT NEED APPROVAL FROM THE PRINCIPAL OF THE SCHOOL? WE HAVE A PTA AND WE HEARD THAT PARENTS NOW WANT TO START A PTO CAN THEY DO THIS AND WHAT RULES DO THEY NEED TO FOLLOW?