kcnewman-
Good news that you are starting off with a good working relationship with your principal.
Also, it sounds like you have a good sense already of your new school's PTO group and sizing up the situation is half the battle. LUVMYKIDS has some great advice on where to start and how to prioritize!
Baby steps, my dear, baby steps. If this group has been running informally for a long time, trying to suddenly bring them to the world of structure may be too much to handle for some of the long time members.
First of all try to find other parents who have been involved and get what info you can on how the group has operated. You can also feel them out as to what level of formality they would like to see. Next, I would prioritize the items you would like to see instituted: what things do you feel are the most valuable in keeping a group running smoothly and successfully? In my opinion, I'd start with putting together a very basic budget and bringing the financial records in order so you know where you stand money-wise. That can help you decide what fundraisers may be needed and what programs/events your group can support. Do you have a board? Utilize them for this whole process. Working as a team will make things go more smoothly because everyone will feel involved in the changes.
My children transferred schools half way through the year and we love our new school. I was VP for 2 yrs at previous school and when we moved I started volunteering as much as possible at the new school. I never went to a PTO meeting until the end of the year but helped with everything and made friends quickly. The PTO at old school was very formal, followed all rules, raised a lot of money and had many volunteers. New PTO is the opposite in every way. The principal asked me to be prez and was voted in (nothing in school bylaws on this subject). I feel lost, I would like to carry on what I learned at the old school but dont want to seem like Im just copying or comparing schools. I also dont want to step on anyones toes and make enemies. I have no idea how things are ran and only have experiences from old school to go by. Any advice for the transition? Where do I start? Currently there is no budget, committee chairs, newsletter, school calendar or special events. How can I get things to run smoother and with some structure without making enemies?
