PTA Meetings
Meetings will be held in the Multi-Purpose Room (MPR), or sometimes we'll move to the band room if we have a smaller crowd. All meetings start at 9:15am and meet on the third Tuesday of every other month. The schedule is as follows:
What happens at a PTA meeting?
PTA meetings are a great way to hear directly from the principal about what’s going on at El Morro, as well as help contribute to decisions about PTA programs and events. The general agenda for a typical PTA meeting includes (maybe not in this order):
- Refreshments
- Greeting and welcome
- Approval of minutes (from last meeting)
- Principal’s report
- President’s report
- Treasurer’s report
- Unfinished business
- New business
- Committee reports
- Announcements
- Questions and discussion
What’s the deal with the complicated parliamentary procedures?
If and when you go to a PTA meeting, you’re likely to hear motions, approvals, calls for member votes, etc. It might seem strange or even a little intimidating, but it’s just how we run the meetings. PTA meetings are governed by Robert’s Rules of Order. While these rules go far beyond what’s needed for a typical parent group (after all, they’re used for the United Nations!), the key concepts work well to keep meetings organized and flowing. An orderly, well-run meeting is best for everyone.
Am I allowed to bring up my own questions and concerns during a PTA meeting?
Of course! There is always an agenda for the meetings, in order to ensure that we keep the meeting on track and tackle one item at a time. You are welcome to submit an item for the agenda in advance (even the night before!)—simply email the PTA president at president@elmorropta.org. There’s also a point in the meeting, usually at the end, when the president will ask for new business. At that time, you can bring up any topic that is not formally listed on the agenda.
Can anyone go to a PTA meeting?
Yes, and we’d love to have you there, even if you are not a PTA member. Only members are allowed to vote on topics, but there is still plenty to learn and hear about.
Can I bring my young children?
Sure, but we can’t promise they will be riveted by the meeting! We're considering adding childcare with an onsite babysitter if we have enough interest. If you would be more inclined to come to meetings if there were childcare, please let us know! Email president@elmorropta.org.
How do I get more involved in the PTA, even if I can’t attend the meetings?
If there is a specific event or position you’d like to volunteer for, let us know. We have many open positions for this school year and even if you only have a few minutes a day, or an hour a month - we'll take it! Visit our volunteer page to learn more.