Charge PTOs for School Use? No Way!

Grrrrr..... this goes in the same category as the recent discussion on restricting PTO fliers and categorizing them the same as fliers from outside community groups.  This Pennsylvania district is considering charging outside groups for use of school facilities.  I understands the budget pressures that lead to that conclusion.

by Tim Sullivan

02/07/2016

Grrr

rrr.

rrr..... this goes in the same category as the recent discussion on restricting PTO fliers and categorizing them the same as fliers from outside community groups.  This Pennsylvania district is considering charging outside groups for use of school facilities.  I understands the budget pressures that lead to that conclusion.

But, ummmm, PTOs are not outside groups.  Are they going to charge English teachers for use of the classrooms, too?  The local sports league, the Girl Scouts -- yup, those are outside groups.  But an active, effective parent group focused on building parent involvement and community and supporting the school is a key part of a great school.  It's foundational, not extra... and certainly not "outside".  Double grrr.