Originally posted by klb: Help! I would like to change from a PTO to a PTSO, because I want the students to know that we care about what they have to say also. I want even our name to refelct that attitude. But, what is the difference between a PTO and a PTSO (besides the name)?
Your question is different than the rest of this thread. Yours is less a PTA v PTO issue than it is a "format of your group" issue.
The "S" does refer to "Student". Typically, groups with the S include students as members. It's often high schools that have PTSOs or PTSAs.
You can determine just what input/role you wnat students to have in your own bylaws. If they're not represented now and your group would like them to be, then start a bylaws revision. Shouldn't have to be a big change (new group or the like).
Help! I would like to change from a PTO to a PTSO, because I want the students to know that we care about what they have to say also. I want even our name to refelct that attitude. But, what is the difference between a PTO and a PTSO (besides the name)?
One thought: you may be (or they may be) understanding that 2/3rds wrong.
Typically, the PTA bylaws call for a notification to all members of a meeting about disbanding. At that meeting, you need a 2/3rds vote of those present at that meeting -- as long as a quorom is present -- in order to pass the disband motion. Your quorum number should be set in your bylaws.
Expecting a 2/3rds vote of all your members is completely loopy, especially since the state PTA and national PTA don't do the same. That same "quorum being present" language is used by state and national all the time for their own changes.
THE TROUBLE WITH THE PTA IS THE DISBANDING PROCESS. THEY KEEP CHANGING THE RULES!!
WE HAVE OVER 275 FOLKS SIGN PETITION TO DISBAND BUT THEY WANT 2/3 PRESENCE AT A MEETING TO VOTE. OUR FOLKS DO NOT WANT TO GO TO THE MEETING. THEY DO NOT WANT ANY MOPRE OF THIS HEADACHE! WE FEEL LIKE WE ARE HOSTAGES! WE HAVE FULL INTENT TO START UP A PTO AND LET THE PTA REMAIN INACTIVE. EVENTUALLY THEY'LL GET THE HINT!