Last week we talked about avoiding a clique reputation, which got me thinking a bit about another cause of cliquishness -- PTOs and PTAs that protect their financials and decisions like the CIA would.

There really should be nothing off-limits to your school community when it comes to information about your group. What are you really trying to protect? Yes, minutes should be brief and factual and financial reports should be buttoned up. But if someone has questions or wants more info, provide it. How much did your fundraiser cost? How much did you collect in dues? If you’re a PTA, how many dollars did you send out to state and national PTA? Those are all perfectly fair questions, and if you're secretive or protective, then the assumption is that your PTO or PTA is a bunch of insiders running their own closed group.

And that's exactly what you don't want.

On the financial side, our Finance Manager software is a great tool for making sure your financials are well-tracked and easy to share. I highly recommend taking a look.

Don't be afraid of sunlight on your group. Being open sends just the right message when it comes to building engagement with all parties at your school.