Okay! I read through it and technically nearly everything in it wouldn't disclude one of the PAs to be a PTA- as it pertains to National PTA. But...then I got to the part where it said that dues could not be a condition of membership. I guess from what I read, that is the only reason why there are no "PTA"s in NYC!
Thanks! Now I understand.
Kmamom, Yes, I did reply but noname, if you have any questions and I know the answer, I'll be happy to answer them, as are all the other parent group leaders and members on this site. (PTA and PTO and everything in between)
I'd love to know more about the situation in New York and specifically what the rules are so that I don't make the same mistake again. ("Bad cop, no donut") If anyone has any links that describe it, please send them to me so that I may better understand.
Michelle actually did respond to this post yesterday, but NYC and the boroughs don't actually have traditional PTA's.(as in affiliated with National PTA) NYC school dristricts have parent groups that are typically very tightly controlled by the district itself. Efforts have been made just recently to change this system, but the biggest parent involvement barrier in NYC schools has been the district(including the mayor's office) itself. As diplomatic as Tim was in his post, I think that may be what he was trying to convey.
My only advice to "noname" would be to remember that NCLB has a mandated parent involvement initiative as part of Title 1. I doubt your group has its own identity (fed/state exepmtions), although it may, find that out first. If it does, spend the money how you see fit. If not, the best thing to do is foster a good working relationship with your school's administration, so that your concerns will be addressed and pray that the legislature finds some money and passes the budget soon!(2 months late and counting)
C. Brooks is right--MichelleB--where are you for this one?
Yes, there is a website. Yes there are phone numbers. Is the previous board still around--the secretary, VP, treasurer--they should have ALL this information, and if they don't they weren't/aren't doing their jobs!! I mean, they left NO information--no minutes, no bylaws no contact numbers for you? I'd go to the PTA website and start there--work your way down to get what you need.
Good luck, and welcome to the boards! You're sure to find the best help around here--I know I have!
Being that your from Staten Island, your "PTA" is not a PTA in the traditional sense often referred to on this site (meaning affiliated with state and national PTAs). The system in NYC is so unique that I'd hesitate to call your group a standard PTO either.
As C. Brooks said, this site is a great place to go for general parent group advice. When it comes to what your group specifically is or is not allowed to do, you may need to look at NYC BOE regulations, as NYC PTAs are so darn unique (and odd -- but we'll save that for another day). If you have specific bylaws for your local PTA, that's another place to start.
