Members of the PTC should fill out vote justification forms to provide a clear explanation of their decision, whether positive, negative, or abstention. This practice: Promotes transparency in the committee’s decision-making process. Documents reasoning for each vote, which can be useful for future reference or audits. Ensures accountability by showing that votes are made thoughtfully and in accordance with PTC guidelines. Helps maintain clarity in case of disputes or questions about why a motion passed or failed.

In a PTC, absentee ballots can be cast in writing before the meeting. They must be submitted according to the procedures established by the PTC, ensuring that the vote is recorded and counted toward the quorum and final decision, just like an in-person vote.

In departments with fewer than four tenured faculty members, additional members of the PTC will be elected by a vote of the tenured faculty in that department. This ensures that even small departments have adequate representation on the committee while following the election procedures outlined in the PTC guidelines.

No. A faculty member who is on OCSA (Other Compensated School Assignment) or FML (Family Medical Leave) cannot serve on a PTC. Only active, eligible faculty members who are not on special leave assignments are allowed to participate and vote in PTC activities.

Yes. In a PTC meeting, a member can abstain from voting. An abstention means the member chooses not to vote either in favor or against a motion. While abstentions are recorded, they do not count as positive or negative votes when determining whether a motion passes, though they are still noted in the meeting minutes.

In PTCs, a positive vote indicates support for a motion, while a negative vote indicates opposition.

A quorum in a Parent-Teacher Committee (PTC) is the minimum number of members required to conduct official business. According to Robert’s Rules of Order, a quorum is a majority of the total membership (e.g., 11 out of 20 members). For PTCs, the same rule applies with one key difference: absentee votes are counted toward the quorum, whereas Robert’s Rules do not allow a mix of absentee and in-person votes.