Student Involvement

Parent Teacher Student Association (PTSA) units and councils are those who acknowledge students, with the exception of elementary school students, as voting members. 

Students are genuinely interested in improving their communities, their education and the world in which they live. PTSA offers them the means to realize such goals through legislative advocacy and educational programs. Belonging to the PTSA affords young people opportunities to develop and hone leadership skills, communicate their ideas comfortably and effectively and contribute to their schools and communities. 

Remember, it is important to actively involve students once you have agreed to change your moniker from PTA to PTSA. An honest, total commitment will result in a successful PTSA. Units and councils may decide to change the bylaws further, by adding a student component and/or positions. Some things to consider while working on bylaws changes like this include: 

• Students should not sign binding contracts with consultants, businesses, or other entities 
• Students should not receive or disburse funds 
• Students should be involved in goal setting 
• Adult leaders should mentor students 
• Leadership opportunities should be developed for students 
• Providing opportunities to engage students in program and event organization 
• Supporting students to make community connections 
• Students should receive recognition for the work they do 
• Student roles should be clearly defined and communicated 
• Youth should have a designated adult advisor 
• Students should be trained to attain necessary skills to complete assignments 
• While performing PTSA duties, students should be chaperoned