Contact the national PTA to request more information about starting a local unit. Visit the PTA wesbite (pta.org) to submit your contact information, and you will be contacted by a representative. When you are contacted, you will be sent various required forms for initiating a new unit.
Invite interested parents and teachers to meet to discuss the group's organization. At this meeting, ascertain which individuals want to join the group and in what areas individuals would be willing to serve. Local PTA units require leadership and volunteers for tasks such as organizing events, publicizing events and projects, collecting dues and communicating with state and national PTA leaders.
Contact the leaders of PTA groups in nearby school districts. These leaders will be able to provide more information about how a school PTA operates and how it coordinates efforts with the state PTA, with which your group will also be affiliated. Local PTA leaders may also advise you about organizational strategies and community resources. Also, local affiliate leaders will be a valuable resource for the future, since nearby units share information and resources with each other. It is wise to know the names and contacts of your colleagues as soon as possible.
Complete the application forms, some of which may require signatures of principal or other administrative personnel. The National PTA needs assurance that your school officials support and will collaborate with the PTA group. Submit the forms to the national PTA along with dues and fees. Dues offset the cost of state and national offices and enable local PTA groups and members to access resources, information and training.