Navigating the landscape of a high school Parent Teacher Association (PTA) can feel like stepping into a treacherous realm of power plays and hidden agendas. From the outside, these seemingly cordial PTA members appear to be working for the greater good, but beneath the surface lies a cutthroat environment where ambition and cunning reign supreme. Indeed, high school PTAs are reminiscent of the world depicted in Game of Thrones.
At the core of most PTAs is a dominant figure—let’s call her Lady Margot. She presides over her domain from the proverbial Iron Throne, exerting influence over the tight-knit executive committee. This select group of elected parents is responsible for steering the school’s activities, but their selection is often less about democracy and more about loyalty to Margot.
In my first year, I opted not to vie for a spot on the executive committee. Instead, I chose the path of a humble participant, seeking to understand the inner workings of this intricate system. My current role is akin to that of a modern-day “rat catcher,” tasked with menial duties while striving to earn the respect needed for entry into the inner circle.
As I attend PTA meetings, I find myself in a unique position to observe the subtle, often ruthless dynamics at play among the ambitious parents vying for Margot’s favor. These individuals are skilled at networking, exchanging favors like courtiers in a royal court. Margot, the puppet mistress, orchestrates her events and fundraisers, all while ensuring her loyal subjects are appropriately rewarded for their allegiance.
The process by which the executive committee is formed is touted as a fair election, but the reality is quite different. It turns out that achieving a coveted seat on the board often hinges on one’s ability to flatter and appease Margot. Many of these alliances have been forged over years, dating back to preschool days, leaving little room for newcomers or aspiring rat catchers to disrupt the status quo.
Margot’s rule extends across all aspects of the high school experience. She metes out consequences for the slightest infractions—like the use of blue icing on the designated pink cupcake day—without hesitation. Thankfully, the students are spared from witnessing any public executions; instead, the PTA’s punishments are more subtle yet equally impactful. One day, you simply stop receiving updates about meetings, and arriving at the wrong time or place feels akin to witnessing your own downfall.
While the high school PTA lacks dragons and knights, it is filled with intrigue and courtly maneuvering. I suspect that my struggles with the PTA are not isolated, and although I briefly contemplated staging a coup against Margot, I quickly realized the impracticality of such an endeavor. After all, who has the time to concoct a plot or dedicate every waking moment to maintaining power? For now, I prefer to remain in the shadows, focusing on my rat-catching duties. Farewell, Margot; winter is indeed coming.
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Summary:
High school PTAs resemble the power struggles of Game of Thrones, where the Queen Bee, Lady Margot, oversees a council of loyal sycophants. The selection process for the executive committee is not truly democratic, instead favoring those who have ingratiated themselves with Margot over the years. The environment is rife with intrigue and quiet punishments, making it a challenging landscape for newcomers.