A parent group (choose any acronym other than PTA) can be anything from a completely separate non-profit organization to a volunteer or fundraising group controlled by the principal - or anything in between.
Unlike the acronym "PTA", PTO has no official definition, so PTO's come in an unlimited number of configurations. The main thing we all have in common is a desire as parents to take an active role in enhancing and enriching the educational environment at our children's schools.
Certainly there are some groups using the PTO label whose principals call the shots. Just as certain, there are tons of PTOs who operate side by side with the principal. A PTO is what you, your members, and your bylaws make it. There are no "official" rules you have to follow, just what makes sense for your school and your community.
Consider, however, that your group will want to foster a strong realtionship with the school admin. The principal (and office secretaries!) can make your ability to negotiate the school easier or harder.
As a PTO you are a seperate organization that has permission to operate within your school. Therefore the principal has no control over your money or how you spend it or to dictate what you do. Decisions are to be made by your board and your membership.
There of course are some cases (you can read some of them posted in here) where the principal is more involved then that, but that PTO is not functioning the way it is intended and somewhere along the line that PTO let the principal take some control, which they should not have.
Like any other organization you have bylaws to protect you.
Other than helping approve the budget and other expenses, our principal has no control over our funds. She can approve dates for a fundraiser and what it is, but can't tell us what to do with the money and overrule the group. Whatever you want your group to do, write that into your bylaws. Honestly, the best person to help you make sure you have the right answers in Tim and I believe he has his contact information listed on another post I have seen today.
The irony of commitment is that it’s deeply liberating-in work, in play, in love. The act frees you from the tyranny of your internal critic, from the fear that likes to dress itself up and parade around as rational hesitation. To commit is to remove your head as the barrier to your life. --Anne Morris
Hi folks...
I am loading up on ammunition for our upcoming meetings re: changing to a PTO from PTA. One of the most interesting comments I have heard is that some folks believe that "If you want to let your Principal drain your pocketbooks, become a PTO" and similar comments re: the control the Principal has over a PTO.
I know this is a bunch of bunk but I don't have a great answer yet. Anyone want to lend a hand?
Thanks and have a great day in the Son and the Light!
