Go to a bookstore (or library) and get the most recent edition of Roberts Rules of Order. They have sample by-laws and explain why they suggest various items. Until by-laws are approved you are operating as a "Mass meeting" and read that chapter well.
First of all if you go back in the archives on this site you will find sample by-laws that can help you out. Next, it may be time for you and the principal to sit down and talk. They may not even be aware of the excitment you have to make this work and to build a PTO that can be a real asset to their school! Remember though, don't PLEASE don't promise anythign you can't do! Your going to be building an ark here and even Noah had some help!
Once you can meet with the Principal and find a meeting time on the school calendar that can be yours, start talking to everyone! I'm thinking if you became President there has to be members somewhere!
As far as the nuts and bolts (fundraisers etc) we all learn from each other and find what works and what doesn't. Please don't try to do this all on your own though. THere has to be parents that are dieing to jump in (like you!) and get this PTO going!!
I hope I have helped and really wish you the best!!!
I am the president of the P.T.O. at a one campus school. I have found out the hard way that you can't please everybody! I need some advice on by-laws, and everything that goes along with this title. Our program has not had any funds in five years, and the only meetings that have been held in the past have been WELCOME meetings at the beginning of the school year. I don't have a clue about fundraisers and P.T.O. but I do know about hard work and dedication. I really want to be the one to make a difference, I just really don't know where to go from here.
