Another way to approach decisions is to start by asking everyone what they see as the pros and cons of each possibility. That way we all recognize together that every option might have some drawbacks, and we can usually come to concensus as we consider all sides together. If a decision-making discussion starts with people stating their conclusions ("I think we should do X because ..."), it's easy for participants to feel that they need to agree in order to be a team player or that they have to choose sides between friends.
MI PTO, be sure your bylaws allow for decision-making over e-mail, and be aware (since I assume from your username that you're in Michigan) that Michigan law requires that any decision made by e-mail be unanimous among everyone eligible to vote. If you have four officers and an e-mail vote is 3-1, or 3-0 with one not voting, the motion fails; if you have four officers, an e-mail vote must be 4-0.
We have decreased the number of PTO meetings held annually and now meet every other month, instead of having monthly meetings. We meet September, November, January, March and May. A great deal of planning and communication can take place electronically via email and facebook which eliminates the need for monthly meetings. It has not had any negative impact on our PTO events and has made it easier to attract new board members who don't want to give up so many evenings for board meetings.
I like this post, this gives me something to work on...rather than just not having a meeting because you can't think of any way to make it exciting or even just pleasant. Thanks for the sharing.
We have a difficult time with attendance so we tie in Book Fair, Art Night, Technology Night, a family cookout....whatever! It becomes a family night and a meeting thrown in at the same time. Our gym was standing room only in the fall and we're anticipating the same this spring. We keep info fresh on our website so we don't have to rehash over and over! This year has been awesome and we're not running to school every week for a different event.
Glad to read all of the posts. I'm especially intrigued by the suggestions first offered. Our PTSO (high school) is lucky to get officers to attend our meetings. Last time, I took notes , and I am the President! Our meeting was in the early morning, and concomitant with a principal's coffee. It is disheartening that in a school of 1900+, only 5 people came. Food does not appear to be a motivating factor; controversial topics are more so, but even then, it's hard to attract people.
I note that one of the posts mentions sending emails. I initiated a program of sending out emails to all members; that seems to be a success. Many people do not even go on the school (main page) website, so the emails are a plus. And now that school newsletters are electronic, news from the PTSO is even more appealing.
I have sent several emails to "volunteers" for certain events--many people do not even respond. Any ideas out there?
