AnonymousBy an edhat subscriber
Have other people experienced PTA (Parent Teacher Association) cliques in their schools? Are you involved in your PTA? What has your experience been like?
I am involved in our high school PTA and the executive PTA Board is very cliquey. Parents wanted to volunteer and make a difference but this PTA board in our school only wanted me and other parents to volunteer and make a difference on their terms. It’s clear we’re fighting a battle, nothing we say or do makes a difference. They dictate everything from the budget and who gets the funds. They are opinionated. They make you feel that if you wanted to stay on the PTA, you have to quiet your own voice make it align with theirs.
Do edhatters have the same experience?
My kids elementary school is like that, one group of parents seems to run everything and if you’re not involved in their little circle they don’t even acknowledge you. If you want to infiltrate, you need to drive a Honda Odyssey and wear yoga pants all the time. Patagonia or North Face puffer vests are optional depending on the weather.
While I totally stand by my comment on the bottom and knownforna fact that there are cliques, I will add that the PTA parents do a LOT for the schools and they do host meetings that are open to all of the parents so it’s up to you all to show up and let them know what’s on your mind.
I believe that’s called “politics”. Get someone else to do the hard work you can then take credit for and use the backing of a force of numbers, or outrageous opinions, as the leverage to force your compliance. The power no longer rests with those doing the “right” thing but by those who can bully their way to intimidate all opposition. It’s the business model of the guy elected to our highest office, coincidentally.
HA! Yep, and if your not part of it then good luck getting in. You basically have to be white and/or wealthy.