Question: How to approach a PTO president?

I belong to my child's local PTO which is located in a very small, close-knit, rural community. We had our 1st meeting last week and discovered that there was a new board member elected except there were no openings posted. Our president and board consists of "best friends" and many feel like it is their "PTO" rather than a parent/school involvement. I am seeking advice on how to approach this situation because there were many other parents that would have applied for this position and quite possibly have been a better choice. What is the best way to approach this situation so that it wont make for an uncomfortable school year?

Asked by Anonymous

Answers:

Advice from PTO Today

Craig writes:
I don't think there's any way to approach the situation that won't be uncomfortable. If you think it's important, you should bring the situation up to the president in private. Speak to her in a professional, unemotional, and especially unaccusatory way. Even so, she may take it as an insult and things may escalate. I'm not saying you shouldn't do it; I'm just saying be aware that it's not likely to be easy. If you decide not to confront her, you might make it your goal for the year to work on getting a broader base of parents involved.