Are you friendly with any of the teachers? You might start by speaking to a teacher or two who is experienced at dealing with this principal. They might be able to give you some insight and direction on how to approach him. You might also consider approaching the superintendent, although you can expect him to support the principal. If you do go to the superintendent, tell him unemotionally and nonjudgmentally that you feel like the principal is harming parent involvement by his actions. You want to help build involvement at the school. You've spoken to the principal with no success -- you're asking for help in mediating a system where parents can get involved and the principal can feel comfortable as well. In other words, your tone is "I want to help and I'm looking for the best way possible to do that." It doesn't sound like you'll ever be able to create great involvement with this micromanaging principal, but you might be able to reach a compromise. I admire you for persevering -- good luck!
- Craig
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I understand when your principal is that bad you don't have many options. I agree with what the other poster said. Go to the Superintendent. Try you hardest to focus your argument on your dedication to helping the kids. Let him/her know that what you really want is to be able to help the school, but you don't know how. Try not to say anything negative about the principal at all...less chance of him viewing you as just a whining parent.
I wouldn't be surprised if the more parent involvement you had the less control the principal would have. I think when it gets to this point the PTO needs to start "recruiting." Forget the notices and just start talking. Talk to as many parents as you can. Get them to help. I've learned that people respond really well to just being asked straight out. I would also just go around the principal and talk to all the teachers. She can not keep you away from them. Maybe start off with your own child's teacher. Meet with her and tell her that you're looking to do more for the school and wanted to get a teacher's point of view on what the PTO should be doing. Don't even mention the principal. Believe it or not, strength in numbers helps. Of course, she can push around a group of 3 or 4 PTO parents. But, she can't just ignore a group of 50+ parents and teachers.
- Emacintosh81
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