Thanks, Tim, for your input. I didn't think about the issue that way, and now I can explain it to my group that way.
The treasurer and I have a meeting with the district tomorrow and I will explain our financial situation to them in hopes that they can see their way clear to paying for at least part of the cost of bonding. Luv, your idea about one signer with approval is a good one and one we may have to put into practice, so thanks for thinking of that option for me.
Have you looked at pricing? Bonding is typically not all that expensive. And -- while I wouldn't get bonded if my annual $$ were a grand total of $1,000 -- I would strongly advise it for any group as your annual "total funds handled" climbs up over $2,000 or $3,000. It's a small investment for the protection it provides and -- even for a group with a tight budget -- is a smart long-term move that can help you best provide the most resources for your group.
Not trying to be contentious, but honestly, that argument that money spent on insuranceis not "going to the kids" is a) really common; and b) really short-sighted.
There's reams of research that shows that great parent involvement is great for kids. And I argue strongly that a great, effective, long-term-thinking, solid parent group does wonders for growing involvement. So... investing in your parent group is "going to the kids".
It's not something the kids can touch or feel today, but it's immensely valuable.... yes ... for the kids.
Number one, don't go it alone. Are you having a meeting soon? I would just be frank with everyone. Tell them what the new district policy is and what it means for your group from a financial standpoint, then ask them what they feel your group should do. I would also let the district know how much of a hardship this is for your group and the items you will have to cut in your budget to meet this new requirement.
I know having at least two signers is best, but could you get away with having only one official check signer, but have some sort of approval process with a signed form that you could use? Or, is your principal bonded? Could he/she be your second signer?
Word has come down from the district that all check signers must be bonded. I am not in disagreement with this, but the problem I have is that the individual PTOs are required to pay for this. We are a very low income school and our PTO has a very small budget. Paying for three signers to be bonded is a large chunk of change for us. This puts me in a position of having to explain to teachers why half the money we designated for teacher requests will not be available to them, or why we have to hold another fundraiser but that money will not go to the kids, or why we have to cancel a free family night. I'm concerned about what can happen to our PTO if I fight the district on this, but on the other hand, if I don't fight them, I've got some angry parents and teachers to deal with.
If anyone has any advice for me on how to best handle this situation, I would really appreciate it!
