Hmmm. Would like to believe that maybe this PTO president is a little absent-minded, but, based on how you describe this, it smells a little fishy. Wondering if this president even knows where the bylaws are or if they exist at all. Think of it: What reason would the president have not to provide them? Unless your group is currently configured in a manner that goes against the bylaws. (Meaning, current president has been installed for years and bylaws say there is a two-year term limit.)
It isn't unusual for groups to lose track of bylaws. New boards come and go, some don't really rely on the bylaws and, after a period of time, no one on the board knows where they are.
But, it is very much within the rights of parents to say that want to see the bylaws. Forward a request, cc the school principal if you think it would be helpful, and say you want bylaws on the agenda at the next meeting. Offer to set up a committee to review the bylaws and see if they need updating.
This shouldn't be about legal action at this point. Bottom line, ask in the meeting, do the bylaws exist or not. It's time for the president to say one way or another.
If there are no bylaws, it is time to put together a committee to put together bylaws.
Hope this helps!
Rose C.
- Rose H
Links in this post: