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Q&A

Can a school dissolve the PTO?

Our PTO is not operating properly. Instead of helping the school they are sabotaging the school and its personnel. Does the school have the authority to dissolve the PTO if they are not operating appropriately?
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Assuming the PTO is independent, no the school can't dissolve it. However, the administration can exercise a lot of influence. The first step I'd recommend is a serious sitdown between the principal and the PTO president (or whole board) to review expectations, priorities, and problems. The meeting should be approached in a businesslike fashion -- emotions and accusations will completely undermine your purpose. You're better off discussing how to improve things going forward rather than dwelling on past mistakes. Make sure, at the end of the meeting, that everyone understands the expectations. These meetings aren't easy, but they can make a big difference.
- Craig
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