Membership:
Can only a parents become a PTA member?
No! Remember the T in PTA stands for teachers, and if your unit is a PTSA, the S stands for students! But don’t stop there. Invite school staff, school district staff, grandparents, business leaders and neighbors to become members. Attend a school board meeting and ask the school district trustees and administrators to become PTA members.
When do we end our membership campaign?
You don’t. You may sell memberships throughout the year. While you may want to establish a deadline for certain incentives or prizes, anyone should be able to buy a membership at any time during the school year.
How many membership “drives” does the average PTA have per year?
While membership is always a year round campaign, many PTA’s will have 1-2 focused drives during the year. Once during the “back to school” months and then again after the new year starts.
What are the keys to a successful year long membership campaign?
An enthusiastic, organized membership committee with a comprehensive plan for an ongoing membership drive that clearly communicates the value of someone’s investment in PTA membership is the critical factor. Membership is not about the “stuff”; it is about making a difference in the lives of all children. Clearly, your membership committee chair is one of the most important people on your board, and one of the first positions you should fill.
Do we have to use the state Membership Theme?
No, it is only provided as a suggestion. You may use whatever membership theme best fits your school and campaign.
Do we need to keep a Membership Roster/List?
Yes, every PTA needs to keep a list of their members! Your bylaws indicate that the Secretary, or other officer, maintain a list of current members. Missouri’s NonProfit Law, Chapter 355, Section 355-271 provides that every Missouri nonprofit corporation – like the Missouri State PTA – shall keep a record of members eligible to vote. Keep the list updated as new members are enrolled. Include the member’s name, address, phone number and child/children’s name(s). You may also want to keep the date they enrolled. If your PTA can communicate electronically, get email addresses from your members as well.
By knowing who your members are, you can better meet their needs. In addition, making notes on your master list, of functions or committees on which members are willing to serve can enhance you PTA in crucial ways. Utilizing the list enables members to assist in filling your various volunteer needs throughout the year. More importantly, by inviting members to take on a more active role, your PTA will become more diverse, fresh ideas will surface, and new leaders will emerge.
Who should have the Membership Roster/List?
A copy of the membership roster should be kept on file with the president, secretary, treasurer, and membership chairman. The secretary needs a list to verify who is eligible to vote during meetings. The nominating committee should receive the list as a resource for considering members to be proposed for PTA offices. The nominating committee must verify that those persons nominated are members and eligible for office.
How can we increase attendance at our PTA meetings?
Many schools will combine some type of school event with their meetings. You may want to work with your principal and teachers (music & art especially) to have a music performance or art showcase that starts after your meeting ends. You might want to consider holding a meeting in conjunction with a PTA program that have activities for students to do while their parents are in your meeting or have the program start after your meeting ends. Having dinner or food available (donated or for a low cost) is always a great way to get people to show up.