I agree with the advice to let it lie. I had a similar situation when moving here at the elementary school. I decided to let the PTA alone and became very active in the classroom directly helping the teachers and students. I find it much more rewarding and free of politics, etc. I am a board member of the PTSA at the middle school now and do ALL PTSA work but still focus on classroom activities as class mom at the elementary level - I have three children.
So let them run things as they want, smile and be pleasant and let it go. There are plenty of organizations that would love your time and talents and you can still stay involved with your child and their friends. [img]smile.gif[/img]
You say you enjoy working with your children and the other kids. Then do THAT. Help in your kids' classrooms, work hard to support fundraising, attend meetings, be a voice for the kids, and vote for what you think is best. I truly believe that organizations based on deception and unscrupulous methods quickly fall apart because the ones that stabbed you in the back will soon begin doing it to each other too. I'd bet that it won't be long before you get some calls for help! Keep your chin up and a smile on your face.
Sorry to hear of your predicament. I'm just totally shocked that people actually run for election with opposition. It certainly has never happened at my school for the past 7 years.
We had a similar election last year. The treasurer and principal colluded to rig the election so that several people were not reelecte. It was a huge smear campaign. If you have the support that you say you have, then see if they will back you up at the meeting. I wouldn't gang up on the members, but have just enough people there that let's them know that you are a valuable member of PTO. In an era that has us seeing fewer volunteers, they should be grateful that you are there. If not, then allow them the opportunity to find out just how hard it is. Outwardly support PTO. After all, this is for the kids, and all our personal crap should be left at the door. ( I myself need to learn to practice what I preach) Good luck. Let me know how it goes.
Please help... last spring I ran for Pres of PTO and did not win with a very shady election (bylaws were not followed for election, etc.). I am a very active parent with a very positive outlook w/education and also work part-time in the school district. I want to be involved as I was last year chairing many of the events for our school however the PTO board has made it very clear to involved parents that I will not be chairing anything this year. I am heart broken...it is certainly a personal grudge and not in the best interest for the school nor the students. I have chaired the book fair for 4 years and this year there is a board member stepping in to take over. I don't know exactly how to handle this situation. Our PTO is not a strong organization as it has proven with the bylaws not being followed with the election in the spring. At the first PTO meeting of this year I would like to be placed on the agenda to speak my peace with this situation. I have two children at this school and have been a parent at this school for the past 8 years - a very involved and active parent. I know that members on the board have a personal grudge against me and want to make sure that I am not involved in anything. Should I speak at the PTO meeting or should I call a meeting with the board inviting the principal to be there (principal is very shady...) I have a very good working relationship with many other parents at the school and all that I have ever chaired as been successful - I know I can be replaced however my enjoyment is being involved with my children and the students around them. Please give me some advice so that I can begin this school year on the right note.
