I P T A, Do You?

Last year I volunteered to manage spirit wear for the PTA at my son's school.  My professional background is in sourcing of women's footwear - placing & managing inventory, negotiating prices to make sure sales teams can achieve their goals.  I took on the responsibility for two reasons - to have a volunteer position on my resume somewhat related to my work experience and because I wanted to coordinate getting merchandise students would be proud to wear!

For the upcoming school year I was approached to take on a role of VP of Communications on the executive board.  Who knew the PTA had an executive board?  Now that I have gotten a first hand look at all the work needed to run the PTA, I have a newfound respect for all the parents who volunteer their time.

When I was in elementary school my Mom was on the PTA for a long time - years.  Along with a group of friends they took on the responsibility of the PTA board.  Thirty years ago, my elementary school PTA was planning school picture day and the annual chocolate bar sale.  That's it, maybe they were coordinating two or three events over the course of ten months.

The PTA for my son's school organizes a couple dozen events each school year.  From ice cream socials, school picture day, bingo night, family math night, book fair, fundraising, talent show, to the annual end of year school carnival with rides that rivals the finale in Grease - the activities that need to be planned are extensive and organizing many require coordinating a number of details. 

For the first two years we were a part of the elementary school community, we participated in almost every event.  Always well planned and organized, I failed to realize how much work the parents put into planning these events for my son to enjoy.  Parents we had never met, took the time and energy to coordinate an event hoping that my child, and the entire student body, would enjoy themselves.  I took it for granted, but not anymore.  I am very grateful for all the parents who take the time to plan activities and fund raise for my son's school. 

As you begin this school year, rememember this as you participate in events organized by your PTA.  Let them know how much you appreciate their commitment to making our children enjoy school that much more.

p.s. if you read this and are a parent at my son's school, you can thank me for the lovely website I have spent most of the summer streamlining and formatting so you can have all the information you need at your fingertips . . . just kidding.  Maybe not.

Do you know how much work is required when coordinating PTA events at your child's school?  Are you, or have you been, on the PTA?