We also post pie charts of income and expenses in our display case at school (easy to do with excel), along with the details for those interested in more information.
*One question, though: why isn't the budget approved by the membership?*
It is - we voted on it at our first meeting, which was attended by about 30 people (out of a school with 400+ families!). I'm hoping to get reaction from the other 370+ families!
NJMom - Great idea! Next year we will try passing it out at the back to school night!
We hand out copies of our budget during Open House which is one of the few times that almost all parents are present at school. We present the budget briefly and then ask for a vote. Parents have an opportunity to ask questions and most do take time to look through the budget.
Definitely print your budget; it is always good to be forthcoming with basic information, especially with regards to money.
One question, though: why isn't the budget approved by the membership? Our PTO Budget is set up and approved by the board for recommendation for approval by general membership, and I've never seen a problem with people nit-picking over line items. Unless you have one parent who enjoys "stirring the pot", there should be no problem, and it adds accountability to the board, which all boards need.
Hi All! I am the co-pres of a PTC and we are considering publishing our budget in our newletter that is mailed home to all families. There would be a paragraph at the end, explaining that the budget had already been approved and inviting people to our next meeting. There are two schools of thought on this.
1. PTA doesn't advocate sending the budget out as it just opens the door for criticism and pot stirring. I'm for constructive criticism and improvements, but unfortunately, it's often the case that those who have the comments don't come to a meeting or convey then to someone who does. it's never been done here or at any school I've known about. My info is not based on first hand results, so maybe it's just the fear of the unknown!
2. Generally, information is good. Perhaps by publishing our entire budget, parents will see why we need to raise so much money and where that money goes. If some of the people who have questions or complaints show up at the meeting, all the better.
