Parent Teacher Association
Parent Teacher Association
If you’re a parent or legal guardian of a student in a New York City public school, you are already a member of the Parent Teacher Association (PTA) without having to pay any fees or sign up. The main goal of this group is to support students, keep families informed about what’s happening at school, and organize fun events like workshops and fundraisers. The PTA also has a real seat at the table when it comes to big decisions; for instance, the PTA President is required to be part of the School Leadership Team (SLT), which helps design the school's actual educational plan. To keep things running smoothly, every PTA must hold an annual election to choose three specific leaders: a President, a Secretary, and a Treasurer.
How to Run for an Officer Position
Every NYC parent or legal guardian is automatically a member of their school's PA/PTA and is eligible to run for office.
- Check Eligibility: You must be a parent of a student currently enrolled in the school. School staff cannot run for officer positions even if they have a child at the school.
- The Nominating Committee: In the spring, a nominating committee is formed to solicit candidates. You can nominate yourself or be nominated by another member.
- Election Timeline: Elections for the three mandatory officers—President, Treasurer, and Recording Secretary—must be held annually between April and the last day of school.
- The Vote: Elections must be held in person or via a verified remote platform. If there is more than one candidate for a position, the vote must be by secret ballot.
- Term of Office: Officers serve a one-year term from July 1 to June 30.
by email at [email protected].