Thank you for the positive feedback and I wish I had the past history of tranfering in or previous PTO experiences. This could be my downfall - I am taking things from my business backround - give me a list of things to do and it will get done.
I also think it may be time that I suggest to parents when they have a suggestion/idea to come to the meeting a "Meet you there!" attitude if you will. Perhaps I am trying to help the other frudtrated parents too much instead of focusing on how I can improve my childrens school experience & learning environment.

When those people ask you to accept a nomination, ask them to join you!!

Country Mom - Keep your chin, and your enthusiasm, up! Your children need you to be active in their education - as so many studies prove and so many parents just know.

boosterprez offers valid insights:

Truthfully, I think many PTO members see themselves as one of the few that devote a lot of effort to the schools, and therefore become resentful of those who don't put in as much time and effort as they do...probably unfair, but I know it happens...

My road from newbie to retiree was long and I learned a lot along the way.

As a new member, you're bursting with energy and ideas. And if you've just transferred in, every idea is preceded with "at my last school...". Your ideas probably are great. And you probably have every intention of helping see them through idea phase to completion. Sadly, that often isn't the case. Many new members don't even realize they put themselves on the other side of the line by saying things like, "Why don't you...." or "You should...".

If you really want to work your way into an established group and help create positive change, try more statements like, "What can I do?", "How can I help?", "I can donate a basket", "I'd be happy to cover a slot on the concessions schedule."

Attending meetings is a great way to get to know the officers and board members and to hear more about the planned activities. Approach the committee chairmen and offer your services.

Finally, know that most activities are planned at least a year in advance. Joining committees, learning the work and helping to plan for next year is the best way to facilitate change.

Thank you greatly for your response.
In response to your last statement, the PTO board appears not to want to volunteer for activities unless it's a last resort (becasue parents won't volunteer from previous run ins) and do not think twice about a board memeber not being present or representing the PTO during an event.
I have thought about becoming a board member and have been approached by parents asking if I will accept a nomination this year. However, I struggle with the idea of working with a unsupportive staff.

I was in your shoes not too many years ago...the then-PTO seemed rather cliqiush and not that friendly. I did my best to stay involved anyways, and make myself known through the various avenues available.

The best way to be an advocate, and change the prevailing "clique" mentality present in many PTO's is to become a PTO board member yourself. Run in the next election...then you're sure to be heard! That's what I have done, and this year I am acting President of our organization, working hard to break from that stereotype of the "unapproachable" group of people that I saw our PTO as being.

Truthfully, I think many PTO members see themselves as one of the few that devote a lot of effort to the schools, and therefore become resentful of those who don't put in as much time and effort as they do...probably unfair, but I know it happens...

First off, thank you for taking the time to read my posting ~ any advice given is greatly appreciated.
I am a relatively new parent (2nd year in the school system) and have run up against some PTO road frustrations; most likely stemming from the PTO board members lack of enthusiasm. I understand each parent is busy in their own right but I believe being a board member serves as an advocate for the school, students and parents - a position not to be taken lightly.
Another point of worry for me are the consistent 'downers' in the form of negative comments thrown too parents who attempt to bring new ideas to meetings; basically it's no with little discussion. As you can well imagine I am beginning to feel as an outcast and unwelcome at the meetings not to mention many parents refuse to attend after a couple of meetings.
I am having difficulty keeping upbeat & willing to continue attending meetings.
How can I remain upbeat and be an advocate for those parents who can not attend but would like to see changes made?