Inspiration

A PTO leader's heartfelt letter on what volunteering means

You'll laugh, you'll cry, you'll relate! Jenny Jackson shares her candid thoughts on what she's observed (and learned) in her time serving on the PTO.

Elections and Transition

You're Elected! Now what?

From meeting with past officers (twice) and the principal (often) to getting to know the rest of the board, here’s an overview of what’s next and our advice for getting off to a strong start.

New to PTO Today?
Update Your Parent Group Officer Info

Don’t Miss Out on the Latest Offers and Programs!

After your elections are over, make sure you and your fellow officers add or update contact info in our system so you get all the info, discounts, and tips to make your term as a PTO leader the best it can be.

PTO Today Article

Make Planning a Priority Each Spring

Think ahead for fall and get a jump-start on a productive year.

PTO Today Article

Defining the Role of a PTO

What role should your PTO play? That answer will change as the needs of your school community change.

PTO Today Article

Becoming a Great Leader

Even if you have no experience, you can be an effective leader. Just play to your strengths.

PTO Today Article

What I Wish I Knew

We asked our Facebook community what they wish they’d known before becoming a PTO leader. Here’s what they had to say.

Free Leadership Guide
PTO and PTA New Leader Kit

New Leader? No Problem

All the know-how you need to be an effective and successful parent group leader, including tips for managing difficult people.

Topic Page

Officers & Board Resources Page

Everything you need to know and more about serving on your parent group's committees or executive board.

Organization

A Year of Great Ideas

Our parent involvement calendar is full of fun ideas and tips for every month of the school year. Use it to help you plan, or follow it event for event!

PTO Today Article

Public Speaking: Overcome the Jitters

Some advance preparation and a few best practices will help your next presentation go smoothly despite any butterflies.

Robert's Rules

Robert's Rules: What You Should Know

Robert's Rules do help you run an effective meeting. And you don't have to know a whole book's worth of details—just a few key concepts.

Finance & Budget

Budget Basics for PTOs

Budgeting makes all of your financial decisions easier. Follow these steps to create a budget for your PTO, even if you’ve never had one before.

PTO Today Article

How To Write PTO Bylaws

Straightforward guidelines to help you write bylaws for your PTO or PTA.

Bylaws/Nonprofit

Complete Sample Bylaws

Sample set of PTO bylaws covering a broad range of rules that PTOs typically include—and that we recommend.

Video Series

Video: 8 Habits for Successful PTOs and PTAs

Expert advice and practical tips on how to run a successful PTO or PTA, in a nine-part video keynote by Tim.