Hi Kerri,
I posted your question on our Facebook page (www.facebook.com/ptotoday) to see if others might weigh in on this issue of leadership and we got some great responses!
This year, our PTO went from an officer format to a board format, mainly because nobody wanted to take on the responsibility of being president. There are 11 of us (including 2 teachers and 2 administrators) putting our heads and energies together to run the show. We take turns chairing events and divide up responsibilities, like the newsletter, taking minutes, and answering emails. I never would have run to be an officer due to my job and other commitments, but once I learned that being a PTO leader could fit into my schedule, I hopped on board. I think it's important to talk about what leading the PTO will involve.
Our community parent group faced this issue, and the president who desperately needed a break just came to me and begged. I took over as president the next year and wondered if I would have to serve for years on end. Fortunately, two awesome moms took the reins from me the very next year and the organization is now invigorated.
So my advice would be to take aside the parent you think would make the best president and let her (or him) know that you will help her make a smooth transition, you will support her in every way possible and that you really, really need her. Let her know the PTO will be dissolved if no one steps up. Try to find two parents to be co-presidents, thus sharing the load.
I think a lot of the time, people feel as though the thought of a title is overwhelming. There is also the fear of rejection if they decide to run and don't get appointed. Congratulations to you for getting the ball rolling again! Maybe consider not doing officers, but forming a PTO committee. You could do this until people feel more comfortable with the idea of being an official organization.
We had this issue with the President position for this school year. Try a co-position. We found that a lot of people wanted to help, but didn't want to take on the responsibility alone. We have co-chairs for our committees, co-presidents and we work together on things. Sometimes taking on full responsibility of a volunteer position can be scary and overwhelming. Especially to working parents and parents who are new to the school.
Two thoughts: good leaders are usually asked. There is NOTHING wrong with hand-picking your successor. Look around at all these new volunteers and see who seems to have a true passion. Approach them privately and ask them. Then give them a few days to think about it. Solicit feedback if they are hesitant to accept on why - maybe they think it's going to be an enormous time commitment (it doesn't have to be). Maybe they don't know what to do (you are leaving and have been the PTO lifesaver; maybe a transition year where they are chair but you're still available to consult. Do you have a procedures manual? How current are your bylaws?)
Also, If there are a couple of parents who are involved and would be willing to take on a co-chairmanship role, then ask them!
Sometimes all a good leader lacks is that first step into the role.
Good luck!
Regina Corley
Past President, Western Hills Elementary PTO
Director of Communication, Temple ISD
