I can see how this one can be iffy. We had a couple of those last year as well, but the way we handled it was to hold a new fundraiser for the express purpose of paying for this specific thing. For example, our new Principal put in for four third grade students to present at the National Educational Technology Expo in Georgia over the summer and was invited. The cost for this would be in the hundreds. So when he came to us, rather than saying "all those in favor" I went the route of suggesting a couple of different fundraisers. The big one, which benefited more than just the georgia trip, was a new golf tournament fundraiser. The Principal himself chaired this event, as it was going to be used for technology related endeavors, which was one of his priorities. He wanted, so he took on the leadership role in making it happen.
Maybe ask if the Principal and/or staff who would want this would be willing to chair a new fundraiser. If funds need to be paid immediately then maybe the PTO could vote to front the funds, as long as it is with the understanding that it gets paid back once he runs his fundraiser.
I think that individual achievements by teachers that are earned through their contributions to the school are okay to support with a token appreciation. Not sure I would have gone for the National Boards award since that is professional development and they do (at least here) receive a pay increase for their certification.
The key is however, you voted. And that is what the vote lent itself towards. Even with this issue; you must consider voting ... I'm hoping here that your arguement will be pursuasive enough to ensure folks see the logic in not funding it. Or maybe you vote in a bylaw that says what things will be given in recognition of achievements and what won't. Do you recognize when a masters degree is obtained; or a PhD. Less is better...in my opinion...but written down and voted on is the best.
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ok, I am preparing for arguments. For the last three years I have been involved on Exec. Board , we voted to give a gift card to the Teacher and Staff Person of the Year. Also, last year we gave gift to a teacher who passed her National Boards(no small feat).
Would this be considered, in your opinion, a benefit for individuals. I may be looking too much into this issue, but trying to prepare for questions from new members.
My biggest concern is if this is accepted , where would you draw the line and determine who receives and who does not.
I totally agree with you. The PTO funds should be benefiting all students and if any child/children are asked to join or nominated for special programs, they should be funded by the district or the parents. We had an instance last year where two of our 5th grade students entered a contest through the "gifted and talented program" that was to design a retrieval machine that could be used on the moon. Well, they won all local & state contests & ended up winning the national award. The ceremony was in Washington DC. the district paid for most of the expenses & the family paid the rest. To me that made sense since it was academic-related.
If this program was something that the PTO initiated or sponsored at the school and now that you have students at the next phase, I could see funding it. However, if this is academic, then it should be the responsibility of the district & families to pay. (when teachers to go special classes or seminars the district reimburses--so they do have the budget for it!!)
Check your bylaws - you may find something that can support your position.
