Thank you all. I have offered to help with the by-laws. I'm waiting to hear if my offer is accepted. I am trying to be diplomatic, but the responses I get put me on the defensive (we have to help the kids if we want to make this work, etc.). I just want to be sure that all the members are kept in the loop and I am not the only one who has expressed this position. I'll keep you posted.
Are there any positions available which would get you "in" with the uppity-ups?
Something like...
Fundraising Committee Chair, or...
Asst. treasurer, or...
Enrichment Chair, or...
Volunteer Coordinator.
Something of that nature which would be considered "high enough" to let you get the ear of the executive board which would help you influence certain things.
If the President thinks of you as a well intentioned, but over-zelous volunteer (which is not what I think mind you), she is likely to treat you a certain way. But if she thinks of you as someone who really wants to support and make a difference, well you're more likely to make good things happen.
Peanut - the issue with the teacher goes without saying for me ... it is the Principle's responsibility to ensure the teachers are appropriately dressed for the classroom. There is no need for the organization to stage their own Project Runway; they can however express as parents (not representing the org) to the Principle their concerns.
<font size=""1"">We must overcome the notion that we must be regular...it robs you of the chance to be extraordinary and leads you to do the mediocre."</font> (Uta Hagen)</font></font><br /><br> <br /><br>"Life is not measured by the number of breaths we take, but by the number of moments...
If things are happening as you say, I would also be concerned. Unfortunately some people look at their election to office as a coronation and rule as they see fit.
That said, you must remember that these board members were ELECTED to their offices by the membership, so obviously the majority of members thought that these parents would serve them well. Offering your help to get bylaws in place, organize fundraisers, etc. is a great way to get involved and find out what is going on "behind the scenes", but if you go at it too aggressively, you may find yourself left out in the cold.
Are there other parents with the same concerns about the organization? If so, I would recommend that you all ask lots of questions at the next meeting about the bylaws process and how to get more involved. It's also prudent to ask about what kind of financial reporting will be done at meetings and who will make spending decisions, and of course there is nothing wrong with throwing your ideas and thoughts out there either. Just make sure that the way you approach this whole situation is with an attitude of teamwork and the desire to make a positive impact on the education the children receive and that what you say and do can't be misconstrued as accusatory or confrontational.
