Obviously you know the specifics of this situation and we don't, but I have to say I would never in a million years use my position as a PTO officer to "advocate" for a particular child or parent. At our school (and most of the others in our district) the PTO is a fundraising and support organization - not a political entity. Our goal is to make the school a better place for the children, but we do not interfere with the administration on any matters having to do with discipline or curriculum. The administration's job is to run the school - we just help make it easier.
If you are personal friend of this parent then it would be fine to go in as a friend supporting a friend. But when you go in as "PTO President" you are setting up the PTO vs. the administration and that's not a good situation to be in if you want to keep on good terms with them. Also, how do you know the rest of the PTO agrees with you - you are their elected representative and should have their support!
If you feel the administration has a problem dealing with children and parents in a fair way then by all means take up the cause - as a parent, but not as a PTO representative. Just my opinion -
I have to agree with Tim on this one. You do not know the entire situation and may jeopordize your standing with the board and principal.
Who is there for the children?? Well, I say that is the role of the individual parent. And to play devil's advocate - who is there for the other children who are trying their best to concentrate and do well on a VERY important test, only to be distracted by a student who cannot be quiet?
I believe that the role of a PTO is to look at the big picture, not the minute details.If you are attending the hearing as a parent supporting another parent that is one thing - but to attend with the office of President behind you is another and in my opinion inappropriate.
Just my opinion. You might ask the opinion of your board as your actions may affect them, as well.
Okkay......possibly you are right, but then again maybe not. Why would I not be an advocate for the child? Why would I not be an advocate for the parent? One of the advantages that I have is that I am apart of the disciplinary committee. I am also well known in the school and the district. I believe in educating the parents as much as possible. Unfortunately, due to the lack of visable parent numbers during board meetings, the board has shown that they feel that they can do as they choose....without dealing with the parent/guardians.
Who is there for the parents and the children? it is very apparent that is is no the district or the building principal....unless you are always cooperative or in the CLICK.
Someone has got to support and stand for the parents/children....and if the parent/child is wrong then.....coming from me or another Parent advocate, will go over better thatn from someone who has done nothing but show that they really don't want to deal with you in the first place.
Please help me if you can........I feel compelled to assist my parents and personally....I believe this parent is getting a raw deal.......even if her child is/was BUCK WILD!
I don't know for a fact that you wouldn't be allowed in.
In my view, you don't really have standing to be in the meeting. I don't see the PTO president position (and I'm a huge advocate/fan of PTO presidents) in this way.
Yes, if there are issues that need addressing in the school, then the PTO president should play a role in bringing that issue to the front and working toward solutions. But individual discipline cases are different. Very complicated. Can be messy. And inviting more (unconnected) folks to those meetings can only lead to more messiness, in my opinion.
You can absolutely help this parent understand how your school system works (appeals process, what people in your system to speak to, how best to advocate for her child), but I don't think your role is to be "the" advocate for that child.
Personally, I don't see why I would not be allowed in the hearing. I will be there as a support person for the parent. I find it very had to be a PTO President and not be there for the parents or the children. I believe it is my job as a parent advicate to support my parents/children in every possible way. Not all the time are Administrators and Principals...looking at the bet way to provide or support the children or the parents.... If for some reason i am not able to assist my parents, I simply try to refer them to someone that can.
If this type of discipline -- in general, not in any personal case -- was seen as a problem by parents, you might discuss the philosophy behind it with your principal.
I don't think this should be that controversial for you. I'd just nicely tell the parent that you can't get involved in personal discipline matters (I'd frankly be surprised if you were allowed in the meeting in the first place) and wish her luck.
