Before ratcheting this up to the school board, how about scheduling an appointment with the Super to understand his or her issues. Maybe come, calmly, prepared with what you know about licensing... and also all the positives that come out of your family nights.
Is it just movie night that is the objection? Or family events in general?
I'd be very careful about going over the superintendent's head (or around him/her) to the board members seeking a different answer. It's like a child asking their mother and she says no, then the child goes to the father seeking a different answer. First, I would personally contact the superintendent and ask for the specific reasons for denying your request. Just a thought.
Is he concerned with the licensing from the Movie Production company? While I know of many schools that offer movie night without a problem, he might be concerned because of the piracy talk that went on recently (and by recently I mean in the last few years).
I would definitely go to the school board. There's probably a time during each board meeting for public comment, and I would have a speech prepared. Keep it very concise, and I don't think I'd say anything about the superintendent turning it down already; just say how popular it was the first time, talk about the benefits it brings to the district (more parent involvement and engagement, fostering relationships, building good will, etc.), say the PTO has paid for the license, and ask politely that you be allowed to use the facilities for this purpose. Good luck!
I am the PTO President. I'm new to the school this year. I have two sites that span PK-6th grade. Parent volunteerism and involvement is low. The same activities and fundraisers have been done over and over again for YEARS.
We did a movie night in the fall and it was a HUGE success. We just sent in a request for a Spring movie night and the Superintendent (who approves facility use and fundraising!) said no. The licensing was cited as the issue. The PTO pays for it, so his excuse it bogus.
What do I do now? Go to the School Board? I have both Principals wanting these family nights, but not really willing to take on their boss, understandably. I am so frustrated!
