When I was elected President it was because our current president had resigned. She was the only one on the board that wasn't new, including the principal. I developed a great working relationship with my principal and treasurer. We had ups and downs but we learned from our mistakes and everything went fine. Don't be afraid to voice your ideas, I was timid about that at first but I got over it. The worst they can say is no.
I agree with Venzmama, don't go for that, "we've tried that and it didn't work" stuff. Every idea is a good one or will eventually evolve into one with discussion.
Read the bylaws, know them. It's literally a good rule book. If there are any records of past things, read them.
If you are unsure of your focus, poll the parents.
Ask them questions in a questionaire, What has the PTA/PTO done in the past that you liked? What would you like to see done? What would you like to see done more or less of and why? etc etc etc.
The results could be a terrific jumping off point for you.
Okay, before Tim bans me from the board...a PTO isn't much different from running a business except you are working with volunteers. If you are organized, willing to delegate, keep a firm hand when needed, and focus on the purpose of the PTO (the enrichment of education) then being the president is put into perspective. This website gives many similar and differing views on how to run a parent group, so take what fits your group and build on it. Don't be afraid to take charge and go with a plan. Make friends with your principal as he or she can make your job so much easier. Have a good executive board to back you up. Follow or develop a solid set of bylaws. And don't get mired down with any "we've never done it that way" or "you'll never (fill in the blank)". A healthy balance of traditional activities (the ones that really do well and work well) can be blended with new ideas to try. Do the best job you can and that's all anyone can ask of you! Good luck and congrats on the new position! :cool:
I was new to the presidency last year with a new school (the school opened for classes Aug of 2002) and a new PTO. All of us were new and had some growing pains. One thing that helped us right off was to define our PTO, its mission and the duties of the board. My most valuable tool is to remain calm with passionate parents, and keep the meetings moving while staying on topic. Our meetings usually have 15 board members plus 10-15 parents, so I have to really keep side bars under control.
I do agree with one of the other posts...DELEGATE, DELEGATE, DELEGATE!! It will save your sanity.
Find the PTA file room and READ READ READ. This will give you a good idea of what has been done in the past AND if any contracts have been signed for this year.
