We also have a great realationship with our principal. Our annual PTO budget includes 4 or 5 categories that have specific purposes, but are spent by the principal, at his discretion. For example, we pay for the assemblies, but he and the media consultant decide which ones. Also, we have a budget for "Building Extras" which might be anything from a new whiteboard to microphone, etc. The point is that the PTO has some control over his spending, because we set the budget amounts and the purpose of each category. But the principal does not need our approval to spend money in those categories, as long as he stays within budget. Since the checks are cut from our account, we know where the money is going for history's sake. We don't write him a check without supporting paperwork.
Also, our principal is NOT an authorized signer of our checks. Even though there are days when it would be much easier to have him be the second signer, rather than having to find the Prez or VP, we do not put him on the account. Giving the principal that much involvement in your finances, blurs the line between independent parent group and school which could lead to too much control by a more aggressive principal (in my opinion).
Our principals ( we have two schools) are terrific! They come to our monthly general meeting and are always (at least 95% of the time) behind what we do. They ask how they can help us in whatever particular thing we happen to be working on. They do not want to control any monies and believe our organization is well run and totally for the students of the school.If they need something, they come to us with a grant request and it is voted upon at the next meeting.
We work like a hand in glove, so to speak. I think we are extremely lucky. I have read a lot of posts in the last 3-4 years here on these boards that are truly horror stories of iron fisted principal involvement!
Our PTA has an annual approved budget which the principal is involved in developing (but not final approval). Within that budget we give the principal a certain amount of discretionary money, this year is was $2,000.00. He in turn can use that money for whatever he deems appropriate. At the end of the year we ask for a simple accounting of the money. Depending on what the money was used for we either approve the same amount increase or decrease the amount for the next year. He can also come and ask for additional money for a specific project during the year and we evaluate the request at that time and either approve it or say no. The balance is haveing parent leaders who are strong enough to act responsibly without micro-managing. We try use as a guiding principal of the biggest benefit for the most kids.
What is the recommended involvement of the school principal? I am concerned that our principal could get into "trouble" trying to "facilitate spending" in our PTO. There is also some question as to the over-all control by the principal perceived by some of our members. Your thoughts?
