It seems to be an epidemic around this country of PTO's fighting. It all seems to come down to one thing....power. Everyone wants it, but they don't want the responsibility.
All I can tell you PTO VA is to keep your chin up and remind them that this is NOT a paid position and that you are NOT the president of the USA. If they think they can do a better job, then maybe they should have ran for office.
I have experienced the same things you have and I just let them know that I was not here to be bullied around. I am very blessed in the fact that I have my principal backing me 100%. Not many schools can say they have that.
Once they know you want accept their bulliness, they will go on their merry way and go find someone else to pick on.
I've found that breaking into small groups and then rotating through to different areas really is effective in getting communication going and discussions targeted. Set 10 minutes per station and then you get the best quickly. Use a moderator that you work out the discussion points with ahead of time and then have someone record what is being said. There are a ton of good ideas from this type of effort....dianna
Hi!!! I suggest an agenda. As you set your agenda ask your other officers for their input. An agenda helps to keep your group on track & things running smooth. The by-laws are a must to have. Good luck.
I recently started our school's PTO at the beginning of this school year. I am the father of second and third grade girls at a charter shcool that is located withing a church. We are in no way affiliated with the church, however. Currently, we are holding meetings every other month (January is a meeting month). I wanted our January meeting to focus on the remaining set up (by-laws, officers, etc.). What is the most effective way to put together a presentation of this sort? Our November meeting was a true success. I want to keep this trend going, but I need some ideas on how to present this material as fresh and exciting to garner more parent support. Any suggestions would be appreciated.
PTO VA - Wow, sadly it appears alot of us have been in the same situation. Last year I had thoughts of resigning but I held my ground. Those who didn't like what I was doing eventually resigned and have been replaced with level headed team players. My advice, if you truly believe what you are doing is right and in the best interest of your school, stick it out. You will be vindicated in the end.
Dear PTO VA- I was in a situation somewhat like your in. I was the unfortunate recepient of horrendous e-mail attack last year while serving on the "board" after questioning a "from here" about a fundraiser commission. I choose to resign. That was the best thing I did. At first I thought it was quitting but then realized it was for the best. The teachers and administration have supported my husband and I in this continuing issue. We have the support where it counts and that makes me feel good and I know we are doing the right thing. The bylaws at all the schools are being changed, which many parents are very supportive of. We have received many "Thank-you's" for our efforts from parents. My suggestion is to make sure your parents are informed. Most of the time they are not informed on what is going on. The PTO's here in VA can be very closed-minded and clique-ish. Sometimes you just have to take a stand and use other channels to get the best for the kids and your school. I was also told by the other"board" members they want the best for the kids. It's just a front that can easily be broken through. Where I'm from the saying would be "they talk out of both sides of their mouths". As long as you know what your doing is right you will smile in the end and have a clear conscience about it. Good Luck.
