Stepping Out Together: 10 Rules of Parent Group Board Retreats (PTA, PTO)

Parent Teacher Organizations (PTOs) and Parent Teacher Associations (PTAs) play a vital role in fostering collaboration between parents, teachers and the school community. As a parent group board, the bond you forge sets the stage for how smoothly everything else will work. One powerful way to strengthen these bonds, build teamwork and set future goals is through well-planned board member retreats.

Retreats offer board members the time and opportunity to connect on a personal level, share ideas and strategize for success.

Why Parent Group Board Retreats?

Retreats provide an informal setting where members can connect on a more personal level. Stronger relationships will positively impact the overall group dynamic. By stepping away from the day-to-day responsibilities, board members can focus on team building, improving communication and understanding one another’s strengths and weaknesses.

Retreats offer a dedicated space to reflect on past achievements for the school community, assess any impending challenges you are facing, and collectively set goals. Some things are just better discussed in person, and although it might not be everyone’s cup of tea, a board retreat really can be fun!

10 Tips for Successful Parent Group Board Member Retreats

1. Affordability Matters: Contrary to the fancy affairs that the phrase “board retreat” might conjure up in your mind, they do not have to break the bank. Consider local venues, free meeting spaces, parks or even someone’s home to minimize costs.
2. Time Well Spent: Volunteers are already typically strapped for time. A successful retreat does not need to consume an entire day. Efficiently plan the agenda and focus on key discussion points to make the most of everyone’s time.
3. Define Clear Objectives: Nobody, and I mean nobody likes to be a part of a meeting that is not productive. Follow our before, during and after guide to running an effective board meeting, and you will come away having achieved a shared understanding of what was accomplished and what the next steps are.
4. Plan Inclusively: Involve all board members in the planning process to ensure diverse perspectives and a sense of shared ownership.
5. Relax and Have Fun: While the focus is on goals and productivity, don’t forget to infuse some fun into the retreat. Activities that promote a relaxed environment can help even the biggest introvert feel comfortable to contribute to the overall success of the event.
6. Create an Open Dialogue: Encourage an environment where all members can express their thoughts, concerns and ideas.
7. Utilize Expertise: Do you have someone in your group who is an expert on something (i.e. accounting, public speaking or juggling)? Consider inviting internal and external experts to provide insights or entertainment.
8. Document, Document, Document: Assign a dedicated member (or rotate throughout the retreat) to take notes and document key decisions, actiona items and other important information that was discussed.
9. Establish a Plan: Strategize for follow-up after the retreat to track progress on action items and ensure the momentum generated during the retreat continues.
10. Encourage Feedback: After the event, assess what worked well and what could be improved about the retreat. This can inform the success of future retreats and is why many such retreats have been longstanding traditions for years or even decades.

A well-executed board member retreat can be fun and productive without costing much time or money. You clearly have a vested interest in the betterment of your PTA or PTO and thus, your school community. A retreat is a step in the right direction of achieving your group’s goals.