And it's funny -- the primary driver of this is actually parents, not leaders. A huge percentage of your families are now running their home lives using basic technology tools. Whether it's a shared family calendar or looking up old emails on their iPhones or forwarding emails and to dos between mom and dad -- parents now, finally, much prefer email to a printed flyer or letter home in the backpack.

The good news is this trend is also easier on leaders and saves trees and money. If your group hasn't collected emails and asked permission to contact parents that way (here's a form you can use to help), and if you're not using email as your primary communication tool, you're missing out on a chance to connect more easily and more effectively with more parents.

And the additional good news is that PTO Today has a free email system that makes this even easier for groups. Our Parent Express Email (PEX) service manages your email contacts and allows you to send professional-looking emails to your entire parent population or to specific groups within your school (like 3rd grade parents or board members). It couldn't be easier, and we have videos and great customer support to walk you through the quick steps of getting started and learning the system.

With the craziness of back to school behind us, now is a great time for you or another volunteer at your group to get a system like this in place. Your parents prefer this type of communication, and it's easier (and less expensive!) for your PTO or PTA. What's better than that? Learn more about Parent Express or get started.