When recruiting I found it helpful to have a list of things people would be interested in doing to check off. When you ask for "involvement," it's too general. PTO Today had a piece concerning this "black hole" of volunteering. People are afraid of geting sucked in to something they just don't have the time or inclination to do--they're afraid of getting in over their heads.
My list broke it down into events and committees which they could either chair (and I explained what their duties would in entail) or just volunteer at (I also gave exmaples of that , i.e. two hour shift selling tickets, one hour shift of running the game booth, that sort of thing). Everyone told me I'd get no takers for the chairs, but they were wrong! A lot of people really stepped up to the plate when given the opportunity to.
I have been to several meetings of the PTO and SAC (school advisory committee and I have spoke with the Principal and V. Principal. This is where I learned of the lack of involvment, much to my surprise. They have directed me to a lady who is hispanic and is fluent in both languages. Not only does she have children in the school but she works there as well.
I have alot of plans just need some do's and don'ts and lots of How To's.
ScottMom#1
I'm going to do a Spring membership drive. This idea came from a post on these boards. I fear that there are those willing to help but feel like they can't or just plain not aware of where to go or what to do? I will be asking any and all family members to do their parts. At 1% does that not concern you? Kids need to know that they are important and if the adults are involved then they are telling them that their lives are important too. I could go on about my business and let this school continue to get along as they have been doing for the past 6 years or more but, I believe it's uncalled for and unacceptable.
Thanks for the ideas so far. I do appreciate it.
Keep 'em coming
I would send notes home to see if those grandparents would be interested in volunteering. So many times they get left out of the loop when they are a very willing and able group. Good luck and keep in mind we only have 1% at my school!
The irony of commitment is that it’s deeply liberating-in work, in play, in love. The act frees you from the tyranny of your internal critic, from the fear that likes to dress itself up and parade around as rational hesitation. To commit is to remove your head as the barrier to your life. --Anne Morris
I think the first place I would start is to ask the prinicpal or a teacher to recommend a parent that does speak spanish and english. I am sure that they would know of at least one parent who is active in the school. At least this way when you do figure out your game plan you are going to reach your entire community. I also want to congratulate you on enrolling an a spanish class. That shows such dedication. Good for you! Good Luck.
HI all
First of I'd like to say "THANKS!" a million times over for the site. I t has been a wonderful, reassuring god send.
Now that that's been said [img]smile.gif[/img]
I recently moved to a new area on the other side of the county. This our first year in this school and I've been elected PTO president. This office was bestowed upon me right before Christmas break. Apparently the schools Vice Principal was the pres before they had the wonderful idea of asking me. The one preson who has not learned to say NO.
The school which is in a very remote and rural area has been in exsistance for over 100 years. Some of the local grandparents attended this school way back when. The area is a farming community and many of the locals are hispanic. Many of the locals do not speak English and unfortunately I do not speak Spanish. I'm currently enrolling in Spanish class to help with this problem. Not to add to the problem but even though I have been involved in the local school system I have not been involved with pto/pta before. My time was always spent as a volunteer.
Our biggest problem is the lack of participation. Only about 10% (or less) are involved with the school in any way. The teachers and or other staff(ie. vice principal) are acting as volunteer coordinators and Vips coordinator and I'm hearing that they really don't have time to spend on it.
Now that I have given you a little history. I need any and all help I can get. IDEAS please!
I've got several ideas rolling around in my head and most I got from this site. But, I'd like more help (idea wise)if anyone can spare it.
