I can be reached at This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. . Just let me know if you'd like to see the bylaws.
7/7/06 note: As of July 1, they are no longer 'my' bylaws so I feel it would be unethical to meet future requests for copies. -cc
Thank you, Crew Chief, for your reply which confirms my understanding of PTO accountability. We are currently trying to educate the school community about why we should be a PTO, and we're going to have a vote in May. I'll keep you posted. I may take up your offer and have a look at your bylaws. Thanks again.
NewYorker, I think you're right. I don't know enough about PTA to know the differences between the groups. I lead a PTO and can tell you that we have good, solid bylaws and are accountable to them. Whenever we encounter a parliamentary issue not covered in the bylaws, we refer to Robert's Rules of Order. I'd be happy to share our bylaws with you if you'd like to see a PTO example.
Anything that can't be resolved within the structure of the PTO gets defered to the principal. He either decides on his own or goes on to the superintendent or school board.
Basically, we see our group as a service branch of a larger community. We wouldn't do anything counter to the wishes of the principal, superintendent or school board. In return, they show great appreciation and support for our team.
Some people come into our lives and quickly go. Some stay for awhile and leave footprints on our hearts. And we are never, ever the same."
"The ultimate aim of karate lies not in victory or defeat but in the true perfection of one's character."
I'm in the process of trying to win my fellow PTA members over to the idea of becoming a PTO. They are questioning, "Who will we be accountable to if we are a PTO?" In other words, if we encounter a problem, we do not have the national, county or state to run to. I say, we are accountable to the PTO and its bylaws, and to our school. Am I right?
