My Tip of the Week: Whose Money Is It?
January 23rd, 2013 by Tim SullivanLast week, I recommended that you add adults-only events to your annual PTO or PTA calendar. And that led to this great discussion about successful events on our Facebook page.
But it also invited a skeptical question: “Do you really spend your PTO dollars on things like renting halls for adult events?”
My answer is: I hope so!
It’s my take that too many parent groups think too myopically when it comes to spending their money. If it’s not literally something the kids or a teacher touch or use, the thinking goes, then the PTO shouldn’t buy it. I couldn’t disagree more. Most parent groups are about building involvement and creating community and supporting the kids and teachers. All of those things have a place in your budget, as they all make your school a better place.
For my complete thoughts on this topic, check out my piece on why I think calling it the “kids’ money” can lead to some shortsighted spending decisions.
February 5th, 2013 at 12:11 am
Hi Tim,
I totally agree that sometimes you have to spend money to make money. The decision shouldn’t be about the cost, but more the ROI and value. I’ve seen some schools and nonprofits pinch pennies, only to burn out their volunteers and be left with no one to run the next year’s events. If there is a reasonable expectation that the expense will easily add value, increase satisfaction, AND pay for itself and/or raise more, I’m for it.