I'm Sue Wells and I am excited to be serving as the 2nd VP of Leadership for the 12th District PTA. This year's theme is "Connected for Kids" and I hope to connect, along with the Board of Managers, with our councils and units, to provide guidance, tools and training to empower and strengthen all our members.

As a resource for these tools, we will provide mentorship with the intention of developing deeper leadership at each council and unit.

The 2nd Vice president for leadership embraces the mission with the following assignments: 

• Advising and Chartering New PTA units
• Providing ongoing training and mentoring for councils and units 
• Planning and Coordinating the annual 12th District PTA Mini-Convention

Click here for our upcoming Road Shows - Training New PTA Unit Officers.

If you or your unit would like assistance in any of these areas of service, please contact Sue Wells, 2^nd VP, Leadership, by clicking on the email button below.

I look forward to working with all of you. 

In PTA, we often hear the word "Transition" during this time of year. Transition is a process of going from an outgoing to an incoming board, officer or chairman. It is a time of change; the time to finish a job, prepare to hand over and receive notebooks and procedure books and begin a new job.

This process is important and should be undertaken seriously by all board members. A good transition from onr board to another or one officer to another can make a significant difference in the future of your PTA. The process of transition are devided into two equal phases: Outgoing Transition and Incoming Transition.

Outgoing Transition

Finish your current job! As we prepare to take on a new position, let us not forget to complete our current duties; this should include a final report.

Prepare your Procedure Book! A complete procedure book is essential for a successful transition. This book should include what job procedures and all reports. Clear out useless or unimportant information. Ask your unit or council president if there is any doubt about how to prepare your book.

Meet with your successor! After a year on the job, so much is learned that it cannot all be contained in a notebook. Take your successor under your wing for the remainder of the term. Introduce your successor to those with whom you have worked during your term of office. Go over materials and duties and discuss their new role.

Be a gracious and supportive past officer! Back away - Support your successor by being available for advice when asked. Being available as a resource provides guidance and continuity. Backing away lets the new officergain confidence and try new ideas. There is more than one way to do a job. Don't be afraid or insulted if they have great new ideas. Change and new ideas bring vitality to the board.

Incoming Transition

The Board Elect - Congratulations on your election! The board elect should begin work as soon as possible after election. The board-elect may set goals and prepare a calendar. With the help of current officers, review current term activities and prepare the proposed budget for the following term. Propose programs and fundraisers, fill any board vacancies and ratify the president-elect's appointments, including the parliamentarian, corresponding secretary and chairmen. The board-elect cannot write checks or call meetings of the association.

Other than making plans, members of the board-elect should no assume their duties until the date outlined in the bylaws and should be respectful of those still holding office. Refer all questions regarding your new position to the current officer or chairman.

Take on your new job! Now you have had this great transition with your predecessor. She can be a great resource as you begin your new position. Read over your new materials and resources. Consider what will work best for you and your new job.

As we begin our new position with eagerness and enthusiasm, we are also part of the team. Be welcoming. Learn to understand others' strengths and weaknesses. Be respectful. Ask questions. Have confidence. Unite the skills of your board and members to build a successful team.

Request for Leadership Training form

Click Here