On the second Tuesday of the month, PTO President Carla braces herself for the meeting that never comes to be. Parents sit frozen in their cars outside, too afraid to enter, wondering, “What if they ask me to chair a committee?”, as Carla’s determination and sanity slowly begin to unravel. A chilling tale of one volunteer’s spiraling descent!
By setting boundaries, staying curious, keeping communication open, revisiting your mission, remembering your “why,” and leaning on the available support, you can lead with both resilience and grace. Here are 9 ways to stay strong when the going gets tough—plus tips from our community.
Our advice to principals: open the door, make a seat at the table, and invite your PTO to be your partner. It’s one of the most impactful ways you can change your school community for the better.
If I could share one message with parents across the country, it is this: you do not have to be an expert to make an impact. You just have to care enough to show up. Every successful event, every dollar raised, every ounce of school spirit, it all starts with someone saying, "Yes, I’ll help.”
