I think there are certain things the executive board votes on, such as possibly which fundraiser to do or events to hold. Board members at our school are the ones who know best what will work with our community and what is doable for us, so we come up with a list of events and possible fundraisers but we take that to the membership at some point for a vote. I can't think of any vote we have taken that wasn't at least discussed or announced at a general meeting.
But as a board, I would never pass bylaws without taking it to the general membership for a vote. That is just asking for trouble down the line. Even if you have a community with limited involvement, I think we would want to cover ourselves and announce ahead of time the reading and vote for bylaws. Otherwise, the bylaws could easily be called into question and possibly invalidated.
As for the principal, I don't think it's uncommon for a principal to be a board member, especially at the beginning when things are just getting started. Most PTOs work closely with their principal and rely heavily on his or her advice and consent. Our principal is not officially part of the board and therefore does not have a vote, nor does she attend every board meeting, but she is always welcome and of course has input into what we do since she is the one who ultimately has to answer to the district and the parents.
Let me just say that I think it is bad practice to have private board meetings. Of course there are certain subjects that should not be discussed in front of everyone, such as the names of people who bounce checks. But for the most part, I believe board meetings should be open to attendance (not voting) by every member. Secrets breed distrust and hinder your good work.
Our charter school opened this year and we are setting up a pto. My questions are: Is it common practice to NOT let the general membership vote and the executive board votes at their private meetings? Also, is it common practice for the principal to be a member of the executive board (appointed by herself every year, not elected)?
The general membership never even got to vote on the by-laws. Can someone please give me some guidance. Thanks
