Running a PA/PTA

NYS Education Law and CR A-660 require that every public school establish a PA/PTA. Once established, PA/PTAs must hold elections to select officers, a process that recurs according to the organization's bylaws. The transition from one team of officers to another is an important aspect of PA/PTA's success.

The executive board is made up, at a minimum, of the officers elected by the general membership. Mandatory PA/PTA officers are president, treasurer and recording secretary, but the board may include others, such as members at large and committee chairpersons.

While the executive board serves as the PA/PTA's administration, all parents make up the PA/PTA and are responsible for its success. Parents can support their schools by joining committees; volunteering to help with programs, activities and events; and advocating for change.

The relationship between the executive board and parent members is key. Involving parents can mean inspiring them to attend meetings to learn about what is happening at the school, vote on matters of importance, and share their concerns; it also requires sharing needed information.

Each New York City public school PA/PTA must comply with the NYC Department of Education (DOE) Chancellor's Regulations, its own bylaws, and, in some instances, state not-for-profit corporation laws and the Internal Revenue Code.

While PA/PTAs are self-governing organizations, working with the school administration and certain DOE offices is required. Plus, good lines of communication between the PA/PTA and both the school administration and teachers is another key ingredient to success.

A PA/PTA's funds are separate and independent from those of the school, and each PA/PTA is responsible for its own financial affairs. Having a solid understanding of what is involved will help make this critical task manageable.

While it is useful for many PA/PTAs to incorporate as not-for-profit organizations and obtain tax exempt status, doing so might not be necessary for every NYC public school PA/PTA. Find out what is involved in becoming a nonprofit and a tax-exempt - 501(c)(3) - organization.