Nevertheless, National PTA has clout. If its leaders succeed in increasing member dues and expanding the organization's lobbying efforts, PTA could significantly damage parents' interests while increasing taxpayer funds for the public school establishment. Instead of implementing National PTA's agenda, many local affiliates are opting to disaffiliate from the mandatory, unified hierarchy that requires payment of dues to its local, state and national branches. All funds raised and dues assessed remain with local schools. A PTO is free to consider no dues or dues exceptions of one kind or another.
Local parents determine all goals, activities and regulations.
They share information, work together on projects and serve as an advisory group.