Several posts refer to state PTA reps. I'm sorry that anyone had a bad experience with a state PTA representative. I would just like to remind everyone, that all level of PTA members are volunteers. I don't think anyone feels angry or means to intimidate. It is most frustrating when units don't call until the decission is already made, they feel they don't need state services or worse, you walk into a meeting thinking there's going to be discussion only to be blindsided with anger and accusations.
Just using one or two state or National PTA programs more than makes up for the dues your unit sends on as part of your state and national dues. I love to work with units and we've got some terrific programs to share. Like all level of volunteers, the people who can work statewide is a dwindling pool. We can't find every struggling unit unless they call for information.
Can anyone tell me what happens after the PTA reps came to your meeting and you voted to go PTO - were you ever audited by the National or State PTA, did they leave you alone after the meeting, etc. I'm trying to find out what to expect after voting to go PTO. Thanks.
I'd say I agree with Drewsmom now that I see what she wrote. The visit from the PTA leader wasn't required in our bylaws. It was such a negative night that if I was doing it over I wouldn't have had her in.
Our experience was kind of like Bella's. After going through the whole thing my advice is this: Follow the bylaws but only the bylaws. The PTA people tried to tell us all kinds of things we HAD to do. But all we really had to do was follow the bylaws. We took the vote, we passed in our books and we didn't use the PTA name or numbers or anything anymore. That's it. Everything else was up to us. We went and became a nonprofit on our own (it's not hard) and we're doing great.
When we decided to remove ourselves from the PTA to become a PTO there were alot of heavy intimidation from the PTA. They are a worthwhile organization but if you are not using the services they provide then why be a part of their association. We sent a letter to our County and State PTA informing them that we had taken a vote and we are disbanning our PTA. They requested all of our books i.e. treasury and minutes (which we turned over) then called several times to "remind" some say intimidate us that we were not to use the PTA name, Federal # etc. I am happy to report that we are a functioning PTO and for the first time in a long time we are profitable (which is great for the kids).
Be firm in your commitment and know that there is a light at the end of the tunnel.
