I was so disappointed in a few of my members yesterday. 3 of my good friends that have not been to a meeting in YEARS came to my PTO meeting yesterday. While they always help at events and in the past held positions, they are too busy to attend meetings. (they have 6th graders and is the last year at our school) When I saw them I was very excited to see them but wondered what was up. I asked them and they said, everything was fine, they just wanted to be there. I go about the meeting, trying to include them in decisions, etc....they say nothing....

Then as I am closing the meeting, they confront the principal about some new changes implemented this year and it got a bit heated. (the morning recess is gone and they feel that their children do not get enough social time before school begins, that was only one gripe) My PTO has worked very hard to get new members on board, and wouldn't you know, every new person was in attendance. My principal handled the situation brilliantly but he was very hurt and upset that they chose to confront him in front of others.

What I am wondering is if anyone has something in writing that I can put in my handy PTO binder for situations like this. I did not intervene in this because the principal was handling it and he has known all three parents for years. I just don't want the newer parents thinking a PTO meeting is the venue for airing complaints. Questions, fine....personal issues NO! Our principal delivers a lot of good information during our meetings and I do not want this process hindered.

I have talked to the principal and said that at the beginning of the next meeting I would address the situation and say that he is always available to discuss issues but to bring them to him, not in a meeting. We are here to support the staff and the children of the school and encourage parent involvement. UGH....thanks for letting me vent!