Advice from PTO Today

Rose H writes:
It sounds like it goes against the bylaws. Is there any other language in the bylaws, however, that would allow for a situation like this, say, if no one else is coming forward? If there are other people who have also been nominated or want to run for this position, then, this person should abide by the bylaws and not pursue this. There must be other ways she can volunteer for her final year.

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ptofrustrated writes:
The incumbent has actually chosen to run again, who can fulfill her two her obligation. Ironically the Executive Board just voted last year to keep the positions two years. However the president and secretary are allowing this to occur. It my opinion it discredits the PTO when they don't follow their own bylaws.

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Advice from PTO Today

Craig writes:
I understand your frustration and I agree with Rose that someone who can fulfill the term is preferable. But I want to point out that while this situation may go against the spirit of the bylaws, it likely doesn't violate the actual rule.

No matter what the candidate says she's willing to commit to, she's actually elected to a two-year term. Anyone can resign halfway through, of course, but that doesn't change the term of office.

This is important because it's not all that unusual for groups with two-year terms to struggle occasionally to find someone to commit to that length of time. The typical result is that they find someone willing to commit to a year, then reevaluate at the end of that time.

In your group, you have people willing to step up, which is great. But I wouldn't want people in groups with two-year terms to think they "can't" have someone commit for just a year if that's the only option.

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Community Advice

ptofrustrated writes:
Thanks Craig. I appreciate your feedback. Unfortunately in this situation there is someone willing to fulfil the two year commitment. It's a shame they will alienate someone by making the bylaws suit their needs. The PTO already has a shaky reputation in part due to things such as this.

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gjcoram writes:
I'm in the situation Craig described: we have 2-year terms, but I told people last year that I would only serve 1 year and then resign. (I will still be at the school next year, but I want to get the new treasurer started while I am still around.)

If someone is willing to fulfill the 2 year term, why wouldn't you want that person to do so? Isn't it being unkind to that volunteer to reject her offer in favor of someone who can't do 2 years?

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ptofrustrated writes:
Thanks gjcoram! I agree! If someone is willing to commit to the two years, why would you bend your own by laws for someone that can only do one.

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