To PTA or not to PTA that is the question?

   Now, the purpose of this post is not to scare anyone away from the PTA. Actually, it is the opposite and I certainly do not think this video is an accurate example of most PTA interactions, at least in my experience. Recently,  I was at back to school night and one of the mothers in my daughter's classroom was inquiring about a phone directory and said, "I really want a directory but don't you have to join the PTA to get one and no one joins the PTA"(giggle). Well, I am on the board of the PTA, yes in a small position that enables me to help but not be over scheduled. Our school just opened 2 years ago and we are still building our PTA membership. She then turned to the teacher and said, "Let me know if you need anything, I just sit at home all day doing nothing."(which also makes me cringe because as a SAHM I would hardly say we DO NOTHING!) 

 

Needless to say, the phone directory is sponsored by the PTA and everyone can get one regardless if you are a member of the PTA. My point is, you can join the PTA for 10.00 to contribute and don't have to DO ANYTHING or you can take some of your downtime and give a little to your children's school, you choose. But don't brag about DOING NOTHING in the same breath as I WANT a directory and NO ONE joins the PTA! 

  

 My experience so far with the PTA has been very positive. I have met some nice people, I get to know the staff at the school at a different level(which can be very helpful) and I am a part of enhancing my children's experience. Believe me, at first I was hesitant to get involved since many people discouraged me. One woman I quote said, "Join the PTA, I mean if that is who you want to hang out with!" What! Are we in the movie Mean Girls? Give me a break, just joining the PTA does not mean that is who you have to socialize with. But really, what is wrong with meeting all kinds of people and "hanging out" with many different types of people. Is that not what we want to teach our children?