We want as many people as possible to attend PTA meetings. This different time was developed specifically to get people to attend. The basic problem is this: everyone is so busy that no time works best for all members. We are experimenting with flexible meeting times - the September PTA meeting was in the evening, and the November meeting is in the afternoon. The afternoon time was requested by PTA members (both parents and teachers) who have evening conflicts - swing-shift jobs, sports practice, religious instruction, etc. Note that during this afternoon meeting, teachers will be running a "Kids Club" for children who are there as their parents attend the meeting.
As stated above, the alternate time is an experiment. It isn't a perfect system, but our definite goal is to maximize the number of parents who can make it to at least an occasional meeting. We hope that some people can come in the afternoon who can't come in the evening, although it's also likely that some people can't come in the afternoon who could come in the evening. There are probably also people for whom the timing doesn't make a difference. The success of the alternate time will be judged after this meeting. We'll either go back to evenings-only or continue with alternating times if that improves participation.
Suggestions from our members are always welcome. Do you have an idea for other times that might work for everyone, like early mornings before school opens or on Saturdays? Do you have an idea for a program that you would like to see at a meeting? The CES PTA is an integral part of Crofton Elementary, and we are always looking for ways to improve our school and our services.
We hope to see you at the November PTA general membership meeting!