We had a similar situation. I was PTO Secretary for two terms, the School Secretary was PTO Treasurer and the President was a first timer. We all worked together for a while, she made big plans and never followed through. I can't count how many times we had to put out fires caused by our Presidents own doing. I am now President and she has a huge problem with it. It was always the Treasurer, myself and another member who got called to finish jobs left unfinished at the last minute. ( after being told it was under control and she didn't need our help ) I felt like we needed someone who could make plans, follow through while getting more people involved. I guess it depends on if this person making an effort..or if she is just slacking and wanting to make decisions and everyone else do all the work. If she is making an effort, then help her, if she is making big plans and pushing her ideas through for the sake of being in charge, its time someone else take over who is responsible and able to delegate jobs to others and let them help in the decision making process. Go with what your HEART says!! You know what is the right decision for you!
and if co-president won't work there is always running for Vice President (which in some PTOs is darn close to co-president!)
I've been the Secretary for two, two year terms (Actually took a break to have a baby) and it's hard to know it's time to move on.....so I'm running for President! HA!
Have you asked her if she needs help with anything or has any questions? Maybe she just needs that moral support. After 4 years I'm sure you had everything down pat. She is just trying to find her way around. If she is your friend it should be easy to offer assistance. If you're truly interested in the position again maybe you should approach her about running as co-presidents.
If she is your friend...support and help her. Your parent group will benefit and your friendship will benefit. Get back on the board, in another position if you really want to get involved again. Don't lose a friendship over it. Good luck!
Why don't any of the slew of complaining people step up and run for the position?
I really take issue with folks that complain about the job someone else does yet they themselves would never do the job.
Listen if this is not something that you want to do then don't do it! Don't let these people guilt you into anything. You've given so much of yourself already. If they are so upset with the job she is doing and they know exactly what should be done then let one of them take the job.
It's so easy for them to complain and then try to get you to do the work!
You said it yourself, the first year as president can be overwhelming. It's hard when everyone is used to an experienced person who knows exactly how to run things then go to a person who is learning as they go. It's hard to be patient, but everyone deserves the same chance that you were given. Maybe she really wants help but, feels that it's her responsibility to go things alone. I wouldn't give up on her just yet. If she wants to run as president, you could always run for another office and help her along if she needs it next year. I've been in those shoes when people compare what you do to what they would have done. It can be hurtful. Be careful.
