Wednesday, March 11, 2009

School Ties

After dropping the boys off at school this morning, I hauled the other three into the building in the frigid, frigid air. I had to set up some treats for the classified staff (it's classified employees week, don't you know) check in on the book fair and see how we're doing for the Leprechaun Dash. As I made my way through the building, pushing one stroller and tugging along two girls, I was stopped by a mom in the hallway.

"Hey, are you going to run for PTO president next year?"

I was kind of thrown off by her question, although I don't really know why. We chatted for a few minutes and we parted ways.

Once inside the library, another mom asked the same question. I nervously looked around and then shared my thoughts once again.

At the end of our building tour, we stopped in the cafeteria where a group of parents were set up doing work for the teachers. Again, the same question came up and all eyes turned to me for my answer.

Kind of weird.

The thing is, I haven't given a ton of thought as to next year. On some days I find myself thinking "No way, nu-uh, you've got to be crazy, heck no." I now understand why no one wants to be the one in charge. When things fall apart, it falls to you and that can be overwhelming. Just since Monday, two events that I thought were handled completely unraveled at the seams and it was up to me to fix them. While I was trying to get over the flu. But thanks to the support of dear friends, we made it. We got it done. I made decisions and moved on.

So what am I going to do next year?

What do I really want?


To be involved in my kid's school.
To know what's going on.
To be in a position to help make decisions.
To give teachers the kind of support I know they deserve.
To have my children see that I value education.
To teach my children that things won't change unless you get involved.
To set the example that in this house, education is a priority.
To know that although things aren't perfect, they could certainly be worse.
To leave things in a better place than which I found them.
To do my best.
To make things better.
To be that squeaky wheel that is completely annoying but gets things done.




I guess I'm getting closer to finding my answer.

17 comments:

David said...

hey I've never heard this cover of the Cure's 'Just Like Heaven.' Very nice.

tharker said...

You do a great job steering the ship! You've got my vote!

Sarah said...

I admire your determination Karen.
"To leave things better than how you found them" is a great goal.

Heather said...

I'll totally wear a VOTE FOR KAREN shirt... but I won't do a dance at your speech.

Ms. Kristen said...

VOTE FOR KAREN!!!!

Annette Rose said...

Sounds to me like you are needed! I don't know how you do it, but you do do it! (did that make sense?) You make me want to do more! VOTE FOR KAREN! (I may even dance for you when you give your speech!)

stylist to the stars said...

Sounds to me like you are totally doing it again! Good Luck :)

stylist to the stars said...

Sounds to me like you are totally doing it again! Good Luck :)

AOlson said...

I'll wear the "Vote for Karen" T-shirt AND do the dance too!! I think you do a great job and knowing you are the President makes me want to get more involved so I don't feel guilty for not being more involved when I see you:)

Michele said...

I think you are NUTS!

Anonymous said...

I am PTO president this year for our school, without ever having been an officer for our PTO before. It's been an eye opening experience, rewarding and trying both. I don't regret it at all. I think that it's shown my sons that I truly believe in their education and their school, and that we can make a difference.
I think you'd do a great job :)
---Nikki

Kelly said...

I second Michele... But I totally commend you on being so involved and for being such a great leader, I'm sure you do an AWESOME job. I'm envious!!

dandee said...

You amaze me with all that you do.

Your children's school is so lucky to have you!

Lisa Christine said...

oh....I see that my brother commented up there...

Anyways, I think it is so important to be involved in your childrens school! You've got me inspired to be a little more involved myself. :)

Andre said...

I think you're doing great! Next year you may have a better handle on things having done it.

Anonymous said...

As a fantastic mother, an involved citizen, and a trained educator, you are over-qualified this position. But teachers sure as heck appreciate empathetic leaders who bring them treats in the staff room! On the other hand, when you finally get burned-out, pass on the leadership. Everyone should share in the "burden" of ensuring great learning environments for our children.

Amy said...

I think you're awesome and I hope you do it again next year!