PTA meetings are conducted according to parliamentary procedure. Though it can seem "fancy" or cumbersome at first, parliamentary procedure is simply a set of rules for conducting organized meetings. Following parliamentary procedures lets the PTA accomplish its goals fairly while protecting all members' rights. This is democracy in action.

Parliamentary procedure calls for you to:

1) consider one thing at a time 

2) follow the rule of the majority

3) ensure justice and courtesy for all and partiality for none

4) reserve the right of the minority to be heard.

The president keeps a copy of Robert's Rules of Order Newly Revised (current edition) handy at all meetings. Asking for help is not only allowed, it is expected and encouraged. With practice, parliamentary procedure helps PTA members make tough decisions together and remain friends in the process. A parliamentarian can be appointed.