I'm the PTO pres. this year. We seem to have trouble keeping new officers. Plus we're revamping our bylaws that were established years ago. They don't say much. The three people working with me on this have also been on the PTO some years. We're ready for change. I think a lot of parents work, and probably feel they don't have time to be an officer. Can anyone respond to keeping new people. We're a friendly bunch of women in need of others to climb aboard.
In our school we have Co-Presidents and Co- Vice Presidents it works out great. we split all the work between us. Our school is very large we have 1150 K-5 students. There is really no rule that is set in stone, you have to go with whatever works for your school and it members. The PTO is an independent org you have nobody to answer to but your school and its members. (unlike PTA)
I think the title of President sounds more overwelming than the job really is. I'v been in it know for 4 years it does get easier don't worry just have fun with it.
I too am PTO president in my 2nd year. Many of our bylaws sound the same, with the addition of 1.The President shall be an ex officio member of all committees (making it easier for me to keep up with what is happening in all the committees)and 2. The President shall have with the Executive Board the responsibility for the preparation of the annual budget (which we then present at the 1st meeting of the year to be voted on and passed or amended by the whole PTO group). I love being involved in the school and I can pick and choose what I like the most to get the most involved with, since the comment about overextending yourself and burnout is important! I also have a very good relationship with our Principal and feel comfortable talking to him about any concerns I have about the school or events in the school. Have fun with the job and don't take yourself too serious!!!
I am starting my 3rd year as president of our PTO and our by-laws are about the same as those mentioned above. As preident I put a lot of trust in my chairpeople and do not look over there shoulders, I try to get involved only when there is a problem. As I see it they are parents and volunteers as well. The one this that I did take on as president is I head up the main fund raiser. We had a problem with some missing money the year before I was elected and this is the one thing that I took on. For the most part it is fun and my kids love the thought og their dad being PTO president.
The President shall:
1. Preside at all meetings of this PTO and the Executive Board.
2. Be a member ex-officio of all standing and special committees but shall not serve on the nominating committee.
3. Appoint the chairperson for special committees.
4. Coordinate the work of the officers and committee chairpersons of this PTO in order that the objectives of this PTO may be promoted.
5. Perform all other duties usually pertaining to this office.
That pretty well sums it up. I'm the PTO President of an elementary school with about 600 students and find myself pitching in on a lot of projects. But you really have to be careful not to over commit. You are far more valuable to the organization as a leader - coordinating efforts, managing resources, administering the meetings, keeping your eye on the "big picture", interfacing between the committees and between the PTO and the school. While the President can help out in many tangible ways, it's most important (in my mind) that he/she serve the real function as the leader/organizer/coordinator.
Good Luck! I've found it to be challenging at times, but very rewarding.
I'd like to find out exactly what being the president of a PTO involves. I know it is supposed to be a lot of work but am unsure just what the president is expected to do.
