Region 12
WSPTA's Region 12 covers Asotin, Benton, Columbia, Franklin, Garfield, Grant and Walla Walla Counties.
Region Director Message
Talking to local unit leaders around the region this year, one common issue seems to be coming up – How do we get not only new members, but new leaders?
Everyone feels that they are being welcoming, that they are not that dreaded “PTA clique” but are we really? How are we being viewed from the outside? It is hard not to appear to be a close knit group when we work together so much. How can we overcome this and truly become welcoming to all?
- Try personally inviting new people to your meetings. If they say they aren’t a member, ask them to come and see what you are about.
- Have your board sit all around the room. Not only does this force you to sit with new people, our might get talking and make new friends.
- Greet people as they come into the meeting or event and when they leave, thank them for their time and invite them to the next one.
- Survey your members and heed the results. None of us like to give our input only to have it ignored without any thought.
- Don’t be afraid to try new things! If you can’t find anyone to help with an event that has been held for generations, it is probably because it is no longer relevant. Also, don’t be afraid to cancel something if no one steps forward to run it.
- Know your school community! It is constantly changing and our PTAs need to change with it. Remember – Change is Good!
- Brag about your accomplishments! Let people know what your PTA does and how they can help.
- Most importantly – Ask! Most of us became involved in PTA because someone asked.
If you have any other ideas for getting people involved send them to me to share in future newsletters.