Bylaws of the Aviator Parents & Teacher Organization (APTO)

Operating under the HHHS Project Graduation EIN 33-4150428

Article I – Name

The name of this organization shall be the Aviator Parents & Teacher Organization (APTO). APTO operates as a program under the fiscal sponsorship of HHHS Project Graduation, utilizing its nonprofit EIN 33-4150428, which was established on March 24, 2025.

Article II – Purpose

The purpose of APTO is to:

• Support and enhance the educational experience of students in Hasbrouck Heights Middle School and High School.

• Encourage collaboration between parents, educators, and the school community.

• Promote transparency, inclusivity, and community involvement.

• Organize and fund initiatives, events, and programs that directly benefit students’ academic and personal development.

Article III – Membership

Eligibility: All parents or guardians of Hasbrouck Heights Middle/High School students, faculty/staff, and community members are eligible for membership.

Dues: An annual membership fee of $10 per member applies if paid by October 15. After that date, the fee increases to $15. Funds collected will be used to support organizational expenses, programs, and student-focused initiatives. Only members in good standing (dues paid) may vote in elections or on organizational matters. 

Article IV – Executive Board

Officers:

• President

• Vice President

• Secretary

• Treasurer

• At-Large Member(s) (optional)
  
  

Duties:

• President: Leads meetings, coordinates with school leaders, oversees organizational activity, and represents APTO publicly.

• Vice President: Assists the President and assumes duties when the President is unavailable.

• Secretary: Maintains meeting minutes, records, and official communications.

• Treasurer: Manages all funds, oversees banking and financial reports, and ensures compliance with financial policies.

• At-Large Member(s): Supports initiatives, committees, and special events as needed.
  
  

Terms: Officers shall serve a two-year term and may be elected for up to two consecutive terms in the same position. No individual may serve more than four consecutive years in the same role.

Elections: Officers shall be elected at the final general meeting of the school year. A nominating committee may be formed to recruit candidates. All vacancies are filled by election.

Article V – Meetings

• General Membership Meetings: Held monthly from September through June, open to all members.

• Executive Board Meetings: Held as needed to conduct business, prepare agendas, and review activity.

• Quorum: A quorum consists of a simple majority of the Executive Board for decision-making purposes.
  
  

Article VI – Committees

• Standing and special committees may be formed to organize or support events, fundraisers, and school initiatives.

• Committee Chairs shall be appointed by the Executive Board and are expected to attend general meetings or submit regular reports.
  
  

Article VII – Financial Oversight

• APTO funds are maintained under the HHHS Project Graduation bank account and EIN.

• The Treasurer shall:

  • Keep detailed and transparent records.

  • Ensure all checks have two authorized signers.

  • Share monthly financial updates at general meetings.

  • Submit a full-year financial report at the final meeting of the school year.

• All expenditures must be approved by the Executive Board.

• Financial records shall be open to inspection by any member upon reasonable request.

• No funds may personally benefit any individual; all funds must support APTO’s mission.

Article VIII – Conflict of Interest

All Board members must disclose any potential conflicts of interest and recuse themselves from related votes or decisions.

Article IX – Amendments

These bylaws may be amended by a two-thirds vote of members present at a general meeting, provided advance notice is given at least one week prior via email or official school communication channels.

Article X – Code of Conduct

All APTO members are expected to:

• Treat others with respect and kindness.

• Work together in a spirit of cooperation and inclusivity.

• Communicate in a positive and constructive manner.

• Respect the privacy of students, families, and staff.

• Support the mission of APTO without promoting personal, political, or business interests.

Any behavior that disrupts the organization or disrespects others may result in removal from meetings, committees, or membership, as determined by the Executive Board.

Article XI – Dissolution

In the event that APTO is dissolved, all remaining funds and assets shall be used to support the students of Hasbrouck Heights Middle School and High School. After payment of any outstanding debts, remaining funds shall be transferred to the Hasbrouck Heights School District or another local nonprofit organization that directly benefits the students, as determined by a majority vote of the remaining Executive Board.

No funds shall be distributed to individual members or used for personal benefit.