So, You've Been Elected as a Brand-New (or Veteran!) President - What's Next?
Serving as a PTA (or PTSA!) president isn't just a big job - it's a multi-faceted job, too. As the president, you are the glue that ties everyone together, and keeps them focused on the purpose of the PTA.
Remember, as a 501(c)3 nonprofit public charity, PTA projects and programs must be in line with the purpose of the organization. An easy way to stay within our purpose as an organization is to ask this question whenever the PTA is considering a program or project:
Remember, as a 501(c)3 nonprofit public charity, PTA projects and programs must be in line with the purpose of the organization. An easy way to stay within our purpose as an organization is to ask this question whenever the PTA is considering a program or project:
"Is this going to directly benefit our children and families?"
If the answer to the question is "No." then that project or program probably isn't something the PTA should be handling. It doesn't mean it's a bad idea; it just means it's a better idea for another group or organization.
That's why the position of the president is so important - you are the glue that holds everyone together and keeps the focus on the children - no matter what happens!
That's why the position of the president is so important - you are the glue that holds everyone together and keeps the focus on the children - no matter what happens!
Dos and Don'ts for the PTA/PTSA President
- Do recognize that PTA is a guest on every campus; the principal is a member of the executive board, but is the boss at the school.
- Don't treat site secretaries, custodial or support staff like PTA employees - they aren't. They have their own jobs to do at the school site to help make sure every child has a great experience.
- Do build relationships between the school and the PTA! A strong PTA can be a valuable partner for a school, and those bridges we build are important!
- Don't forget that PTA is about programs, not fundraising. We fundraise what we need to support or programs, not the other way around.
- Do support your fellow officers by asking what they need to be successful;
- Don't micromanage your fellow officers by doing their jobs for them - everyone has a different perspective, and all of those perspectives working together are what make a successful PTA!
- Do communicate cleanly and clearly - be clear and concise in communication. Don't beat around the bush.
- Don't expect special treatment because of your service to the school; we serve because it helps make things better for kids - not because we get something out of it.
- Do remember that kindness and respect are vital to our success! Being respectful of everyone's time, and remembering to be kind can help everyone feel welcome in PTA!