jollpres I would handle this with caution, when I first read your post I thought that your principal may just be wanting to make sure that things are in line, adhere to school and dsitrict policy.Part of bylaws state that we will follow school policies and that they basically ahve the final say. Being a new school and new group he needs to make sure that things are set up the right way, harsh that he seems overwhelming yes ,but at this point you truly are not seperate from your school (you are not 501/incorporated/etc) if you use their tax number, money in their accounts, yada yada. My theory on groups that are 501 and say they are seperate from their school is that yes you are but where would you be without the use of the school and it's resources? Sit down and talk to him as far as his mission, his outlook. If your group starts off resenting him it will only lead to bigger issues...
I applaud you in getting your by-laws published, this will really help in focusing who is who and what their jobs entail. As far as the Principal, it sounds like he is a "bulldozer" personality and thinks he should run the show completely. I would advise sitting down in frank discussions with him and let him know your feelings on this matter. I would let him know that both PTO and he are new to how procedural matters will be attended, but you would like to work with him as a partner and get PTO goals in line with the school's. Also remind him that this is a independently run organization, and you need to operate without constraints to benefit everyone- just as he needs to to run his school and would be a conflict of interest. You might want to add that the principal is cannot be a member of the Executive Board.If he won't back down- then talking with school board officials might be in order.
We are a new elementary school that combined 2 schools. We just appointed anyone who wanted to serve as a officer a position. In other words we had a meeting for anyone interested in serving on the executive board. 8 people showed up and everyone took a position. Some had experience serving and others didnt. I have had 6 years experience serving on an executive board with 2 being as Pres. My problem is the Principal (who is new to both schools) is taking charge of the executive board meetings and dictating EVERYTHING. I have served under 3 Principals in the past and have never encountered interference like this. He said he is on the Executive board and will have a say. We havent done our Bylaws yet. We are working on that. SHould he be involved on this level? I dont believe the school administration should direct the operations of the PTO organization. I know we need to work together and I respect the Principals position in the school, but hasnt he overstepped his boundaries? Please advise. THis has been a horrible experience.
