My first question is "How much are you willing to get involved?" If you are willing to put in some major time and effort then I have tthe following suggestions: (1)Meet with the principal and tell him that you would like to see a more structured and organized PTO and that you are willing to help get it going. (2) If the principal seems positive about this, then let the board know you're interest in helping. Sit down with them and discuss what everyone expects from the organization and draft a plan.(Be careful to not give the impression you want to take over, just that you're ready to assist in getting things structured.) (3) Draft some bylaws that include job descriptions, meeting structure, election rules and most important--a mission statement. Once you can get focused on a common goal and have the ground work laid for a path to get there, the board can make more definitive plans and soon you'll have the PTO you dream of.
Wow! I think our kids could be going to the same school from the way you described your first meeting. Except for one thing my pto doesnt even have a president(officially) I wish I could give you some expert advice(I cant)but I will tell you that Ive been learning all I can about PTO's and feel confident that at a meeting in the future I want to discuse bylaws. Ill be watching to see how it goes for you wish me luck :eek:
For the second year I've come to find that our school doesn't really have a PTO -- or that the PTO is actually our Principal. Our first meeting was basically an info. session about the school -successes/addition of extra-corr. activ./etc. - from our Principal and an introduction of the new PTO Pres.(appointed 10 min. prior to this meeting by the Principal) and the introduction of the PTO board, also appointed by the Princ/V.P's. After my parents/school/teachers history of the past year and having spoken with our new president post/meeting I found that this is the norm. I have always supported my children and their school by giving much of my time to it - both at school and at home and I'm saddened that such much talent and support is never utilized/strengthened to grow with our school. How can I help/encourage our principal to allow/expect more from the school community and take the burden of the PTO off of his back and give him the confidence to enrich a new asset for the school. I am and will continue to chip away at this issue and I would greatly appreciate all positive avenues to help build a great PTO for the school/student/teacher/parent/staff and community. Your positive input is appreciated. :confused:
