Bylaws and Standing Rules

PTA Unit Bylaws

The most successful PTAs are those that run their meetings efficiently following their bylaws.  Bylaws tell you the minimum number of meetings per year, when to elect the nominating committee, when to elect the officers for the following year and much, much more.

Local PTA Unit’s Bylaws Update Information

Is it time to update your local unit’s bylaws?  Check the date stamped on the first page.  Your bylaws expire three years after that date.  If your bylaws are scheduled to expire this year, plan to set up a review committee at least 3 months before they expire.  It is best to download the latest form, fill in the blanks, and send to Florida PTA for approval after membership has been notified or has voted for any changes.

Submit your new bylaws at least one month before they expire.

Bylaws Instructions and Forms

Standing Rules

Standing rules are the rules an organization uses to administer its affairs under the provision of its bylaws.  They set forth the procedures adopted to accomplish specific areas of PTA work.

Standing Rules are more flexible than bylaws and may be changed or suspended at any board meeting by a majority vote.

Examples:

• Setting the hour at which board meetings are to begin
• Explanation of courtesies extended to guests
• Spelling out requirements for special recognition and awards
• Maintenance of membership lists
• Determining who registers the appropriate signatures at the bank
• Outlines of PTA or Council functions
• Determination of what courtesies will be extended to board members and/or teachers when they experience illness or death.
• Setting allowances to be paid for board members who attend State and/or National conferences and conventions to cover registration, travel (airfare or mileage), hotel, and meal expenses incurred while on PTA business.

How to Create Standing Rules For Your PTA

1. A Committee of at least three people should be appointed to prepare the Standing Rules.
2. The Committee should include experienced and knowledgeable members of the PTA or Council.
3. Using the bylaws as an outline, the committee should consider each provision and then formulate instructions for applying the provision.  The minutes of board and general meetings, as well as the experience of the committee members can serve as resource material.
4. There should be complete job descriptions for each officer and chair.
5. After the committee has finalized the Standing Rules, they are presented to the board for approval by a majority vote.
6. Upon approval, make sure each board member has a copy.

Standing Rules are generally not adopted when a PTA is newly organized, but are developed as the need arises.  Standing Rules serve as a guide to ensure the orderly transfer of duties from one administration to the next, and are a valuable tool for the orientation of new board members.

Click here for an example of Standing Rules

If you have any questions, email Localunits@dccpta.org