Remember what PTO stands for (Parent-Teacher-Org.). Without the parents & teachers, there wouldn't be a PTO.
A suggestion: write a note or attend a meeting and voice your concern over the 'use of volunteers(whether they are being used, or not being used). As a PTO President, I would love to hear from any and all parents on how well the PTO is running. Without input, I really don't have anything to go on(To make it better). Also, offer praise, everyone loves to be praised for their work. I try to praise all volunteers, whether they do one hour of work or 20 hours.
Most importantly, DONT GIVE UP! Be persistant!
Thanks!
[This message has been edited by Val (edited 07-06-2000).]
I agree with the sentiment that your child's face will answer your question whether it is ok to pop in once in awhile. I absolutely love to see moms/dads who can only come once or twice. The kids LOVE to have us in school during these events. One thing I will say is that there is a lot of behind the scenes work that goes on to make a PTO run effectively. You cannot be in school during the day due to work, there are telephone squads, typing, photocopying, just stocking up the PTO cabinet with napkins, etc. ALL this does help us help the children. We do what we can, when we can. Never give up on the idea.
A few years ago I worked more hours. I had signed up to do an ongoing committee twice a week in the school. Unforunately, there were several times that I just could not get away from work. Well when I called to inform the person running the committee, you would have thought I killed someone. I had to politely (at least I think I was polite) point out that I am VOLUNTEERING. I am doing the best I can and that if they would no longer like my help, just let me know. I think I made my point. Don't ever feel you are a bother. You have a child in that school you have every right to participate in whatever capacity you can. Keep your chin up it does matter to the kids.
I know what you mean, but don't give up...That senario happened with me this year when I was asked to chair the Carnival at the last minute. There were lists of people who were willing to help with various things, but the list didn't get through to me on time, or I couldn't match up the people with the jobs needed. It was frustrating for sure, but I learned ALOT and will try to do better next year with the things I have learned. There are different people who handle different aspects of PTO events, and usually we all don't have the same info to go off of, (a little disorganized I know) but we are all doing the best we can with these various jobs being tossed our way, so hang in there...
Thanks for the encouragement. I can understand the frustration of calling and finding they can never volunteer. Here's something that has happened to me: I explain my situation and list the kinds of things I can help with, sometimes even checking them off on a pre-set list. Then the PTA calls me for the things I've said I can't do--or never calls me to ask if I can do the things I've said I can! I really want to help!!! But it's like they don't believe I want to...or they don't pay attention to my list, and then I have to say no! I'm guessing it's probably easier to call the regulars than to try to match up occasional volunteers with the right jobs. I'll keep trying because I think it's important, but I don't want to be a pain in the neck for them, either.
I agree. I'm sure everyone is tickled to have your help whenever possible. It only gets frustrating when someone says they'll help and then when you call them, they can't do it, over and over again. Remember to look at your child's face light up when you are there to volunteer, I think you'd have your answer. Keep up the good work!
Like so many of us, we try to do our best but when you've got to work - you have to work. When you do volunteer, (carnival, book sale, etc) it is appreciated very much.
Every time a parent takes time out for their children it warms my heart to see the childrens eyes and their excitement to see their parents doing something for them. So don't think that that being really active is the only way. Think I'm doing what I can for our children. Stick your nose in any time you think something is happening. Volunteering is something you do from your heart not your pocket. Good Luck & God Bless
[This message has been edited by Fatherof1 (edited 06-22-2000).]
