kelgf - I'm really feeling for you right now. I've read many of your posts and all of them seem to be along the same lines. You're working too hard, your team isn't supporting you and you have no where to turn. It's a terribly unfair spot to be in. And if I'm reading you right, you might think that stepping back or stepping down will be a sign of failure. Believe me, it's not!

My first year as president I took on everything because I thought I had to. By the second year, I started delegating. Some officers welcomed the added responsibilities while others balked and accused me of dropping the ball. By the third year, I knew fully what I was capable of and what others needed to manage.

Right now, you need to be honest with yourself. Is it all too much? Are there other less hectic roles you could take on until your kids are older and all in school? How can you contribute, feel like you're making a difference for your children and still retain your sanity?

While you're struggling with the darkness of all of this, know that there is light at the end (and it's isn't a speeding train). This isn't an all or nothing decision you're making. You can continue to be very active in the PTO, learn the ins and outs better, let your children see you at school and be proud that Mom's involved. Take a deep breath, hold your head high and do what you feel is best for everyone involved. That's the sign of a true leader!

I'm being torn here. I don't know what to do! I lost it yesterday and said to a fellow officer that maybe I should resign cause the pettiness of this is just getting to be to much. The principal called me into her office this morning and had a talk with me about everything I'm doing wrong. (Nothing positive). I'm brand new, got thrown into the position of pres. had never even been to a PTO meeting. I don't know the way things were done or how I'm suppose to do things. Everytime I open my mouth to suggest something though I get told it's all about me, I'm asking not telling! I'm exhausted already, not to mention completely frustrated. I was told that I need to make a discision over the weekend about whether I'm going to stay, step down to vp, or resign. I want to stay as pres. but I can't deal w/ the stupid stuff constantly. I don't want to step down to vp cause then I just sit there. I'm in an awkward situation because I have 3 children: 2nd grade, 3yrs old, and 2 yrs old. I don't have a babysitter so the majority of the time my kids need to be with me. Also my husband works very long hours afternoon/midnight shift and I have to drive him to and from work. So it's not like I'm sitting here with nothing else to take care of but PTO stuff. Help please I don't know what to do. I want the position, but I need help and cooperation from my fellow officers. I asked the other day what everyone thought our goal was, no answers. What did everyone think their postion responsibilities are, no answers. It's like all the stuff I need to know and have answers to, they think I'm being pushy or bossy kinda like over ruling everything. Which I'm not at all, I'm just trying to figure things out. Can't wait to here your replies! Thanks in advance for your help, love all of you!