I'd second Critter's comments. We started last year with co-presidents. (My idea, even.) Logistically, it was just very difficult. We both work, so have limited time at school. I found that presidents have to make quick decisions/committments. It was cumbersome for us to have to continually consult each other before moving forward even on small things. There's also the matter of styles and personalities. Even with good friends, it's hard to perform the job in tandem. I think others on the forum have have very successful co-presidents, so I'm not saying it can't work. But I'd suggest anyone take a hard look at it before choosing it.
We found Co-Presidents so cumbersome that we now have a Bylaw that restricts us to "one and only one President". There is no such restriction for other officers. I was secretary under co-prez - I never knew which one to call. I had to get both to approve everything. And invariably, changes that one would suggest, the other would undo. Furthermore, parents never really knew who to call with questions. Communication efforts were doubled. Find one courageous sole who is willing to be the ultimate bearer of responsibility and elect him/her President.
In your particular case, I would be reluctant to add another "officer" now, unless there really is some year-long responsibility that new officer would take over. If it's just project-based work, get these eager beavers to be committee chairs. Maybe it's just semantics, but your "officers" were elected last spring (presumably) by vote of the membership.
WidowerwithThree- I absolutely love your first sentence. I chuckle every time I think of it. How true. In our PTO we have 1 Pres. 1st Vice President- sort of a President in training, 2nd Vice President-Head of Class Moms, etc.. 3rd Vice President-Ways and Means, Recording Sec, Correspondence Sec and Treasurer. If you will note there are 7 of us that way majority always rules. No ties to be broken
I have just been assigned as Co-Vice President of our PTO. I think that that is a great idea seeing as all of us are new to the PTO and the work load upon us. Vice Presidents are over all the concsession stands...lol I havent started yet but am very anxious to see what the year brings.
I personally dislike the idea of co-presidents. Any animal with two heads is destined to bite itself eventually.
I do agree, however, that multiple VP's is a good idea. Most corporations have multiple VP's to cover large areas of responsiblity. Perhaps the VP in-charge-of _______ would be a good way of dividing the responsibilities while maintaining the titular distinctions.
Perhaps at your next board meeting you could ask for input as to what areas need coverage and which could be consolidated.
Just my opinion but many parents would be more likely to assist in area they feel most qualified. If they are asked to handle general areas they are less comfortable than handling specifics. Leave the generalities to the president who will ride herd on the VP's and act as their moderator.
I have never understood the co-president thing. Or the co- anything. They frown on it in PTA mainly to ease the mailing situation and voting related problems at general meetings and conventions. But you can have as many vp's as you like. You may want to consider placing several vp's in your bylaws with their job description. ie. 1st vp assists the president, (no need for a co-president then) 2nd vp in charge of programs, 3rd vp in charge of fundraising etc... Or you could simply word it that you may have up to 5 vp's. I have seen some vp's positions be head room parent or volunteer coordinator. Any of those jobs that you simply cannot do without.
As far as voting the only problem you would run into is with co-presidents. It should be established who is the voting president in case of a ballot vote to make or break a tie. The other would certainly be able to vote as a member.
mykidsmom-It is frustrating starting the year off that way. Hopefully you will run into people you can plug in right away. Best Wishes!