PTO Here I come!

With my kids in only 1st and 2nd grade last year, and knowing we were moving, I didn't take the time to put down many roots at our old school.  I knew a few parents from T-ball or passing in the hall, but not really. I saw how certain parents flocked together, heard of vacations taken by parent friends and saw pictures on facebook of joint family outings from the weekends.  I did none of that.  Not that I didn't want to - I just figured, what's the point with moving.  So, now that we are settled and never moving again, I'm gonna put down some roots gall-darn it! I'm naturally a little shy before I get to know someone - I'm not usually the one to push myself on others - but I'm changing that!  I've been making a point to introduce myself to people whenever I get the chance.  So far I've met parents at the salon, a clothing store, the gas station and most recently a PTO meeting - WHICH by the way I am taking over.

I had met with the principal several times before school to gear up for the transition for the kids. He is super duper nice. And he must have thought I was at least normal too, because he called me the other day wondering if heading up the PTO would be something I'd consider. Hmmmmm....  I wasn't sure. I had signed up to volunteer and be a PART of the PTO, but it's just something I had never considered. He told me what was involved, which really wasn't TOO much, and after some pondering - I said I'd do it.  I went to my first meeting Thursday night with five other parents and the principal. The principal also brought a stack of papers about 2 inches thick full of other parents willing to help, but didn't want to come to meetings.  I can understand that. 

It only took about twenty minutes of listening to the current leader (she's preggo, gonna pop next month), before I felt comfortable jumping in with my own opinions and ideas. This PTO has done an AWESOME job of fundraising (holy crap you should see their new playground - it's incredible!), BUT it seemed that's mostly all they do. Another hmmm...  Never having been a part of the PTO before, I wasn't 100% sure of their role in the school, but I was pretty confident it involved some fun non-fundraising activities for kids and families. This school has an ice cream social once per year after the music concert - whoopie. 

Since Thursday, I've done a bunch of reading on-line and surveying of fellow parents to see what role the PTO plays in different schools. I think I'm right. So, I crafted a lengthy but nice email to the principal, suggesting we expand the PTO's focus, and start organizing activities to get the kids and their families connected to the school.  Movie night, fitness night, art show - anything! I wonder if he's regretting the day he ever called me!  HAHA!

What role does your PTO play?