For convenience sake, you want a name you don't have to change every year. That's why many of us recommend the principal. The "agent" is basically just a contact point. You need to keep your documentation up to date with the Secretary of State's Office. In some states, there is an adminstrative fee to file a change in the agent's name. In Texas, I think it's only $5 ($15 if not a non-profit).
But still, remembering to file new paperwork each year and paying the fee would be a pain. I'd recommend the Principal, if he/she is willing.
Regardless who you choose, most of us do agree that the PTO should use the school address for business correspondence. Don't start using home addresses. It's way too easy to miss important updates from the IRS or the state if they are being mailed to someone no longer associated with the PTO. At least if they come to the school - they will hopefully be passed on to you.
I would recommend someone from the PTO be the agent for one simple fact....
Sometimes things happen and if you end up with a principal with a conflict with the PTO they could do damage to your status by not sharing information in a timely manner. So, having it go to the president prevents that.
It probably isn't a big deal and just a bit of paranoia on my part. But, I know in the past, by the time something has passed through the principal to us there could be as much as a 2 to 4 week delay, without even meaning too! Which could be problematic.
I have the PTO startup guide and basically took the articles of corporation template provided and plugged in our information.
I have a few questions now that I'm comparing what I've typed against the form.
In article 2 we have to have a registered agent. Currently I have my name since I will be president (this is what the PTO startup book recommends), however, I have read in other places it is advised to put the principals name.
I have a meeting tomorrow and would love to have these completed and ready to file.
