Hi!
This may or may not make you feel better: Lots of people have had this experience. There could be a number of reasons why this is the case. Sometimes, a PTO has a board that has been working together for a while and they honestly don't realize they are perceived as a clique that isn't interested in new ideas.
Our advice: Don't give up. If you care enough to submit this question, you obviously want to help your school. When you talked to the PTO president, what was the response? One idea is to offer to help out, pitch in on an upcoming event or program. Or, do you have an idea for an project? Let them know there is something you want to do to participate. Keep going to meetings and asking questions. You have as much of a right as anyone to help your school.
As far as the spending goes, a board should not be spending money (typically if it is over an amount of a few hundred dollars) without a vote. Ask to see a copy of the bylaws. The rules around spending should be spelled out there.
Good luck and hang in there!
Rose C.
- Rose H
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