me_n_rory - as often happens on these boards, some posts get knocked down the list a few spots and don't get the attention you'd like or that maybe they deserve. It looks like that's the case with your post here - except for the one blatant case of self-promotion. Sorry about that!
I, too, quickly became president of my group after being at the school just two years. It's a steep learning curve but you can do it!
You're in the right place to get lots of great information. I suggest that you start by browsing the posts. Be sure to use the Search Message Boards function. You'll find that many new presidents have the same questions you do and that the majority of them have already been answered.
Tim, the proprieter of these boards, is always quick to offer advice and point you in the direction for free tools. For example, the Bonus Tools section and PTOtoday Magazine. I love the PTOtoday magazine. Your school should already be getting a complimentary free copy. Check with the person that sorts the school mail. As president, you should be first in line to read the magazine and then share pertinent articles with your team. Also sign up to get free monthly tips via email. There is tons of great information on this site. Just take a few minutes to look around.
Also, here's an insider tip. It's best to ask pointed questions about specific areas. General statements like your post will garner plenty of sympathy but not much response. After looking through the site, come back and ask as many questions as you need to. You'll find that many, many folks around here are more than glad to help!
Some people come into our lives and quickly go. Some stay for awhile and leave footprints on our hearts. And we are never, ever the same."
"The ultimate aim of karate lies not in victory or defeat but in the true perfection of one's character."
I am with a company called Educational Adventures, we are the producers of the animated cartoon series "Danger Rangers" We have implemented a safety campaign which has the added feature of a fundraiser.
We are looking for community involvement in preventing childhood accidents with this product.
I would love to discuss this further with you. You can contact me at This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it..
I've been on my schools pto for just 2 years, but due to a series of events I am now the president! HELP! I have no idea what I'm doing! I have run a few fundraiser, and helped out at functions but I have no idea how to do this! Any ideas or resources you could tell me where to go. We have a large school,(695 students) but a very small pto. Not alot of parent involvment, although I think that may have had something to do with a past president. So I'm looking for ways to turn the pto around and make it seem more welcoming for other parents to want to join. I have so many questions and no idea where to start. HELP!!