Committee chair  Dashboard

1 

Understand the Role

A committee chair is responsible for leading a specific area of PTA work while supporting the goals and priorities established by the PTA board. Committee chairs help organize activities, engage volunteers, communicate progress, and ensure that committee projects align with the PTA mission.

A successful committee chair:
✔ Understands the purpose of the committee
✔ Creates a plan for the year
✔ Works collaboratively with PTA leaders
✔ Engages members and volunteers
✔ Reports progress and outcomes to the board

2

Know Your PTA Governing Documents

Every committee operates under the guidance of the PTA’s bylaws, standing rules, policies, and approved procedures.

Committee chairs should understand:
✔ The purpose and responsibilities of their committee
✔ Approval requirements for programs and activities
✔ Budget and spending procedures
✔ PTA policies and expectations
✔ The role of the board of directors in decision-making

​Committees support the work of the PTA but do not operate independently from the association.

3

Create a Plan of Work

A successful committee begins with a clear plan. The plan of work helps define goals, activities, timelines, resources needed, and ways to measure success.

A committee plan of work should include:
✔ Committee purpose
✔ Goals and objectives
✔ Planned activities and events
✔ Timeline and important dates
✔ Volunteer needs
✔ Budget requests
✔ Evaluation methods

Planning ahead helps ensure your committee stays organized and focused throughout the PTA year.

4

Work as Part of the PTA Leadership Team

Committee chairs are an important part of the PTA leadership structure. Strong committees work closely with the PTA president and board of directors to support the overall goals of the association.

Committee chairs should:
✔ Attend board meetings when requested or required
✔ Provide regular updates and reports
✔ Communicate needs and challenges
✔ Seek approval before committing PTA resources
✔ Collaborate with other leaders and committees

5

Build and Support a Team of Volunteers

Committee chairs do not have to do everything themselves. The best committees involve members and create opportunities for others to contribute.

Effective volunteer leadership includes:
✔ Recruiting volunteers early
✔ Matching volunteers with appropriate tasks
✔ Clearly communicating expectations
✔ Appreciating and recognizing contributions
✔ Creating a welcoming environment

6

​Communicate Effectively

Communication is key to a successful committee. Keeping leaders, volunteers, and members informed helps build trust and participation.

Committee chairs should:
✔ Share updates with the PTA board
✔ Communicate timelines and expectations
✔ Promote activities through approved PTA communication channels
✔ Ask for help when needed
✔ Keep accurate records for future leaders

7

Manage Resources Responsibly

Committee chairs are responsible for using PTA resources wisely and following established procedures.

Remember to:
✔ Submit budget requests according to PTA procedures
✔ Track expenses and receipts
✔ Receive approval before making purchases
✔ Follow PTA financial policies
✔ Work with the treasurer when handling funds

8

Maintain Records for Future Leaders

A strong committee leaves behind resources that make the next leader’s job easier.

Keep copies of:
✔ Plans of work
✔ Event information
✔ Timelines and checklists
✔ Volunteer lists
✔ Budgets and expenses
✔ Lessons learned and recommendations

Good recordkeeping creates a smooth transition from one leader to the next.