I agree with the points already made here. Since you have spoken to other parents who have similar concerns, it would be easiest for everyone involved (especially you!) if you could act as a group. Perhaps several of you could go together to the next PTO meeting. If there is an opportunity, raise your hand and volunteer for something. If it was me, I think I'd go to a couple of meetings before raising some of the issues you've mentioned. They are good ones, bvut maybe I'm just too "low key" to start in on them without some level of invovlement, however small. Are there other ways you could start getting involved with your school, like volunteering to be a room parent, that doesn't involve the PTO?
I'd start with the principal, and present the questions you asked here in writing. If you don't get the asnwers you like, move to a Board of Ed meeting, and present them, in writing. Then to the superintendent. Your situation is understandable--the PTO board SHOULD know better, and probably DOES, but you still have to leave the benefit of the doubt factor in there. Even if the reasons this PTO gives are true, the situation is totally unacceptable. I think, though it could be construed as "confrontive" and "threatening," you'd be better off doing this with a group of like-minded parents. If you go it alone, you're more likely to be seen as a rabble rouser rather than a concerned parent.
I suppose anyone could do an audit, but I would think that would be foolhardy. Why wouldn't you want a CPA to do it, or even the school district? I'm in the process of trying to find a generous soul willing to give us a freebie for that right now, as we're appplying for grants and you HAVE to have an official audit! As long as they're flying under the radar with a budget of $10,000 or so They can pretty much get away with what they want if know one is monitoring the situation.
What has the principal said? Are they a member of any sort of governing body? There must be a copy of the constitution and by-laws on file somewhere at the school (most likely in the principal's office)and you should have immediate access.
If there is no constitution, then what does this group of officers have that gives them the authority to run the PTO? It sounds like you have the perfect opportunity to fix it...
I have so many questions I'll only start with the Basic ones. Please forgive me for being long winded. I have been trying to become involved with the PTO for 3 years, but the core group has not been friendly or helpful. Our PTO has had the same officers for 7, yes, 7 years. They say it's because no one else wants the positions. I have spoken to other parents they have no idea when the election of officers is and some who come told me they did not ever feel welcome. They have changed the election date and the only people at the meeting to elect these officers for our PTO this year and last was the officers,1 teacher, and 1-2 parents. Is this following the guidelines for election? I have been involved in several non profit organizations and this has never been the case. Also they will not or do not know what the quidelines for the PTO in our school is. I have asked for a copy of them and I am always told they will look into it for 2 years this has happened. Also this orgainzation of our school has NEVER been audited. Is this a problem? I would think so. When they are audited, can they use anyone to do this or do they have to use a CPA ? They have no budget written down and we wonder what is going on. Someone please help! Thank you so much!
