Question: rules and regulations for PTO's?

Is there a list of formal rules and regulations for running an independent PTO? Our principle has demanded that all proposals from teachers must be made first month of year and that NOTHING would be considered after that. He says this is the PTO's rules. This is his first year as principle and our PTO has only been around for 2 years. I think we should look at any proposals that come in mid-year and vote on them, with our budget in mind. Don't we as a PTO make this decision? Should it be in our By-Laws?

Asked by Anonymous

Answers:

Advice from PTO Today

Craig writes:
There are no national regulations, if that's what your asking, that say you can only give grants to teachers once a year. The great thing about being independent is that you can make your own rules for your own programs. Many parent groups give grants in the middle of the year, and some consider them on an ongoing basis. You're free to do as you wish, but do you know why the principal wants to limit your program? Maybe he wants teachers to be better about planning out the year, for example. It's important to sit down with the principal and really learn what his concerns are. It might all be a misunderstanding, or you might be able to work out a compromise that makes sense for both your needs. Check out our topic page called The Principal for some helpful information. In particular, I'd recommend the stories "Negotiating With the Principal" and "How To Work With a New Principal," which you can find linked at the top of the page.