Question: cheating on silent auction

Our treasuer was caught trying to bid on a couple of items after the bidding had closed at our Silent Auction. She rescinded her bids and the proper people "won" the items. She has aplogized directly to me, President, and our Vice President. She has worked hard in good faith for a year and a half and I have no reason to question her integrity. But the Vice President is still uncomfortable and an angry parent brought the matter to the attention of the Prinicipal who has called a Board meeting to discuss the facts and "restore the trust and faith in the PTO." I am looking for creative solutions that do not include having the tresearur step down.

Asked by Anonymous

Answers:

Advice from PTO Today

Rose H writes:
Sorry to hear this unfortunate story – you are in a tough spot. If several people are upset about this incident and have taken it to the principal -- and now the principal wants to meet with the board -- you may need to give serious consideration to asking the treasurer to step down for the good of the group. I know you want to avoid that, but if the trust your parents had in this treasurer is gone, it could have a long-term negative impact on your group if the treasurer stays. Since it seems like several people do know about this incident, you could consider getting parent feedback on having the treasurer stay on – if you can assure the group that stringent financial controls are in place. Also, you could assure your parents that your executive board will make sure at least two people are always on hand when cash is being counted and take other steps to assure transparency in similar processes, like when you wrap up an event for the day. This is difficult because you indicate the treasurer is very sorry and you’ve been doing an audit, so it is not as if your group takes its financial responsibilities lightly. But, again, when it comes to matters of trust, the good of the group might outweigh your worries about the treasurer. Good luck as you resolve this issue.