Not to be a rabble rouser (sp?) but I think if you had a specific thing you wanted the PTO to address for the school/students, you may want to tackle it yourself with a few other willing parents. Show them what could be done with a functioning organization and just work through the school and staff. Or maybe write your PTO with ideas, concerns or thoughts and carbon copy the letter to the staff and principal. They might like to know there are other willing parents out there. Just thoughts off the cuff here.
This is definitely a problem. Perhaps you could point out to this group that they could be asking for a lot of trouble by not having accounting procedures in place. They should follow procedure for their own protection as well as that of the school. I can't imagine why this group wouldn't want your help. Most of us are begging for more help! The bylaws should contain a provision regarding meetings, and there's no reason for them not to provide you with a copy, unless they don't have any. Perhaps you could ask if they need help revising their bylaws.
If you feel this group truly won't listen to you, then I think your next step is the Superintendent and/or the School Board. They should be aware of this situation, as it could reflect badly on them if there are any accounting problems. Good luck!
Oh I really wish I had an idea for you. I can't even imagine your frustration. Although my son did attend an elementary here that functioned on that premise and it was frustrating.
I really hope someone has some ideas for you. I know a lady that's kids go to the elementary I mentioned and she said that she has pretty much resolved not to feel guilty since they don't want any help.
I just hope that somehow you can get your foot in the door if that is what you want because I'm sure you'd be able to make some positive changes. Hugs! And Hang in there!
Since I moved to a small Idaho Town 2 years ago I've been disgusted with the school's PTO. I wish I could say that I disagree with their policies but the fact is, I can't even get a copy of their by-laws or organizational charter. It seems that there is a small clique of "preferred members" who hold no meetings but allocate all of the funds raised with no accounting practices adhered to. I've tried addressing the issue with the school principal but have been blown off in sometimes not so polite ways. Can anyone advise me on ways I can revise and revitalize the PTO to include more Parental inclusion?
