Wow - those are great replies. I especially like the outside collection idea and the idea that the best gift is the small one that came from the kids. Thanks for your input.
I wouldn't feel comfortable having that kind of money from the PTO fund spent on me...if they want to do an outside collection that doesn't effect the money raised for the chilren then that would work--or even a bake sale done specifically to raise money for a farewell for the president...but 200 dollars is higher than most folks are allowed to accept as gifts when they retire...anyway--just my two cents...d
Speaking as a President who has served 5 years for PTO and has worked countless hours to recover from the spending crazy group before me, I would be really upset if someone spent that kind of money (that I had worked really hard to make sure was put to good use) on me. I know I don't speak for everyone and that I am considered cheap, but in all my years, my favorite gifts are made by kids and cost a whole lot less than $200. The best gift I received was a thank you note written on a piece of paper the size of my fridge and signed by the class I adopted. It hangs over my desk where I can see everyday that I did something special. Just my two cents-please don't take offense to my thoughts.
The irony of commitment is that it’s deeply liberating-in work, in play, in love. The act frees you from the tyranny of your internal critic, from the fear that likes to dress itself up and parade around as rational hesitation. To commit is to remove your head as the barrier to your life. --Anne Morris
P.S. I forgot - he used to be an amateur collegiate wrestler so they were thinking about buying one of those life size wrestling belts. That's where the $200 comes in.
I was talking to a family member (a candidate for President next year) who posed this question. In their small school, the PTA President has served for an incredible FOUR years. He has practically coordinated a dozen school projects that could be done. There are about four dozen education programs over the years. Most of this has been done solely by him. He has left a healthy bank balance and by being fiscally responsible has always had organization funds to help out with worthwhile projects. One can imagine the incalculable number of volunteer hours devoted to PTA. Officers have come and gone in those years and he has spent an average of $30 - $40 on an appreciation gift. However, in terms of money spent do you think a $200 gift would be inappropriate or appropriate after four years of volunteer service to the school? Just curious since I navigate these boards and can give my cousin an answer.
