For fundraisers we have to have permission of the school board to begin with, but then the exact fundraiser is voted upon by the pto. These have been pretty much set since the dawn of man so there's no confrontation about whether to have the fundraiser, just decisions over the type. When it comes to spending, each big event has a budget that must be followed. Small spending is kept in line by a credit card held by the president and fundraising chair only that is sent in through the school for auditing purposes. Now, about spending the crux of our funds... the teachers submit detailed request sheets that we consider at our November meeting. It includes everything from amount of money needed, two estimates from suppliers and reason for the need (who the item will serve). The process works out beautifully because the teachers know that the more details they give the faster they will recieve approval. We consult with the principal only if we see repeat requests or something inane. By the way, the principal is required to submit the same request form as the teachers for programs she would like to see funded.
We allow officers to spend up to $50 within certain guidelines. Myself or the Treasurer must be included on anything over 50 to 200. At that point you are into a major event and need to submit a plan which will include cost projections, ROI, and concepts to the board. You have to sell it to a majority. Congradulations and welcome to the wide world of PTO presidentcy!
Good for you! It may be hard at times but just keep in mind why you are doin what you are doing.This is my second year as prez and last year it was hard to get the "old" members to except new ideas. We didn't have bylaws last year so we are working on them know. We have come up with the Pto officers can spend up to $150 of PTO funds with 3 approving officers. We have to report this at a general meeting.
Hope this helps.
First of all, kudos to you for taking on the roll of President. Who is they, as in they don't like to spend the PTO money on the students or school. Our PTO has its own bylaws and officers, the principals and superintendent attend but are not officers of the group and are just one vote. Parents are the main voice in our group and we make all of our own choices. Check you bylaws, if you have any, if not, write some up.
Good luck
I am a newly elected PTO President and so far I am getting nowhere. How do ya'lls school handle pto funds? Do youhave to ask permission for everything you do and then usually get turned down because they don't want to spend the pto money for the good of the kids and the school?
