Question: executive board for PTO

Should a teacher be the President of a PTO? Should the prinmcipal be able to pad the Board so that he has control of the money we are trying to raise for the kids? We have a 5013c now & he now controls voting as they will not vote against their boss. This has been a very active board up to now as the kids benefit, we are now afraid that this is going to change.

Asked by Anonymous

Answers:

Advice from PTO Today

Rose H writes:
In general, we think having a teacher on the board is a good thing. A teacher can bring great perspective to the group. The situation you are describing sounds like it has gotten off track, though. Is there more than one teacher on the board? The focus on doing things for the kid's benefit shouldn't change and should be reflected in general votes that show the wishes of the group as a whole, not just the board. If enough group members are concerned about this board make up, you can voice your concerns and take action when you are next voting on board positions.

Community Advice

SailAwayAK writes:
Our PTO bylaws are written so that we have One staff member, and 10 other people on the PTO board. However, others including teachers can be on the board and members of the PTO. But it is expected that in situations of conflict of interest that those members obstain from the vote.

I myself am a Teaching Assistant in our program. I am also the Vice Chair. My children also attend the school. I think if the teacher is also a parent that can bring some great insights. Do I think they should come forward asking for funding for their own classrooms? No.