Parent Organizations

Build TRUST between parents and schools

Engaging in COLLABORATION to support school needs

Facilitating parent ACTION AND ADVOCACY

Developing “two-way” COMMUNICATION channels

Sharing KNOWLEDGE with families proactively and in ways they can easily access

PTO Best Practices
- Be clear and transparent with PTO Members and School Staff.
- Make sure PTO is keeping the principal informed.
- Make sure you are being governed by your By-laws.
- Maintain open lines of communication to handle any concerns that may arise.
- Always distribute meeting minutes from previous meetings.
- Extend meetings to all parents, make sure they know the date and time ahead of schedule.
- Always keep By-Laws updated.
- Make sure your 501c3 is active.
- Be consistent with recruiting parents.
- Invite Teachers to PTO Meetings.
Parent organizations are completely separate entities from HISD. The district does not provide lawyers or accountants or other professionals to help manage the legal and financial status of the parent organization. We recommend parents and community members seek the services of an attorney, accountant or other relevant professional if they need help. Here are low-cost or free services you may use at your discretion:
- LegalLine
- Houston Lawyer Referral Service