I totally agree about the communication. I can tell that before this year, the communication betweent the PTO, staff and parents was nil. We started a newsletter. I sent out a letter with a volunteer application that showed what all PTO does. I was amazed at how many people responded, after I was told that no one ever helps. people want to help, they just don't know where to start or who to contact. Good Luck!

one other thought allie mom is if your group doesnt have a motto or mascot think about developing one, that goes home on everything we do. just for the records ours our stick kids with our name in fancy writing. a fun look....a fun name...PALS

allie mom...i would suggest that you run...not walk ...but run to the door that is the closes to you=) Just kidding, when i took over our group the first things i did was 1)contact the staff , telling who I was, asking in what ways can we help them, etc. 2)started a monthly minute flyer that goes home to every one(complaints were that out past pta did not communicate at all) send out a flyer about your group (events it has, meetings, due info, etc) 3)have info in the school newsletter at all times(communicate, communicate, communicate) 4) make sure to say Thank you personally , with a hand written note, after a big event like a ornament, votive candle, etc. little things go a long way. 5) Last but not least be positive and realize it takes time to rebuild a fallen group, make it fun, be sure that any thing your group does is publicize in school and your community. the more your name is heard the more it becomes a house hold name.We put up a HUGE sign in our lobby which says "another fun event being brought to you by pals" when we have events. If at all possible talk to parents at events, have tables at events (alot of schools do this at the beginning of the year...we do it all year long) show pictures at events, we just did a powerpoint that we had showing at k orientation and open house. be proud of who you and remember to smile while you do it...have fun...just for the record in three years our volunteer list has grown for 3- 4 regulars to over 55 this year. its alot of work but it can be alot of fun, your volunteers are your support and make sure they know how much you appreciate them...without them none of us leaders are anything=)

I was just elected/given the job of PTO president. I have only been to a few meetings before now and they were at a different school. Where do I begin?? Should I send a note to the teachers about who I am and that I would love to hear from them anytime. I know that there is very little involvement in our PTO. Usually the same 3-4 people doing it all. I am up for any suggestions or comments. my email is This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. if any one would like to send me anything it would be greatly appreciated!!