Hi Holli,
I won't discuss what I may consider a con to being a PTO. Partly because it would be my opinion and also because I don't want to start any type of an argument. I will however tell you what I consider to be pros about being a PTA (I am one of those that feel strongly about PTA)
This is the PTO Today website and it does have a slant away from PTA. Some of it (much of it) I don't necessarily agree with.
There aren't many differences on a local level between a PTO or a PTA. Each unit adopts it's own bylaws (but as a PTA, copies are sent and approved by the state PTA and generally there is a template you would follow).
Other rules are established and would have to adhere to because of our 501c3 status, non-partisan, non-sectarian, non-commercial, rules regarding advertising etc. These are the IRS's rules, not the PTAs.
Local PTAs adopt their own policies and procedures and they can't be in opposition to other resolutions adopted by State or National. And all resolutions must follow the mission statement and purposes (some PTAs may interpret these differently, another example of their independence) PTOs would write and develop their own mission statements for filing purposes.
I also think that you need to look at several resources regarding their differences. The answer is different depending on who you ask. For complete information on PTA, you should at least visit the national website at
www.pta.org
and you can google your state PTA (STATE NAME PTA) and find their website as well.
Before you make any decisions, I would talk to some of the local units to see how they feel about the benefits and also to someone from your own state office. In turn, you can get much information regarding PTO here and Tim will also be happy to give you his take on things. You should also talk to other groups in your own area that are not PTA. My personal experience with PTOs has been that they have been controlled by an administrator or primarily fundraising based. (AGAIN, My own experience, there are plenty of PTOs that are not like that and that is why you should get a broad example from within your own area.
So, again, I am very much for having a PTA, I feel very strongly regarding PTA and feel that it is a wonderful organization. If for some reason, I am ever at a school that does not have one, I have and will seek one out to join because I believe in the work that they do for children and I am thankful for their accomplishments.
[ 12-01-2004, 07:50 AM: Message edited by: Rockne ]