{
  "id": 5769670,
  "title": "I was the PTA mom who did everything. Then I decided my son needed me more.",
  "url": "https://urgent.news/2026/09/05/i-was-the-pta-mom-who-did-everything-then-i-decided-my-son-needed-me",
  "topic": "culture",
  "section": "Culture",
  "published": "2026-09-05T12:04:01.000Z",
  "source": {
    "name": "Business Insider",
    "slug": "business-insider",
    "url": "https://www.businessinsider.com/no-regrets-not-volunteering-band-booster-parent-school-2026-9"
  },
  "original_language": "en",
  "account": "The author, Nina McCollum, was a highly involved parent in her son's elementary schools and PTA activities. However, personal challenges changed her priorities, leading her to scale back her involvement as he entered high school. Despite initially feeling guilty for not joining the Band Boosters, she decided to focus on being present for her only child during these transitional years. When he started high school, she faced her own personal struggles and had to balance her responsibilities with her son's needs. Despite missing a game to care for her mother, McCollum made a conscious decision to prioritize her son's accomplishments and show up for him at games, cheering him on and embracing the joy of his achievements. She sees her role as a supportive presence in the stands, rather than an involved booster parent.",
  "summary": "When I volunteered at school events, I missed the best part. Now, I proudly watch my son perform from the stands.",
  "key_points": [
    "Nina McCollum was an active PTA mom in her son's elementary schools.",
    "Personal challenges led her to reduce involvement as he entered high school.",
    "She prioritized being present for her son during high school and his achievements."
  ],
  "editors_take": null,
  "illustration": null,
  "coverage": {
    "outlets": 1,
    "also_reported_by": []
  },
  "ai_generated": true,
  "disclaimer": "Summaries, key points and the editor’s take are written by software from other outlets’ reporting and may contain errors — always check the linked original."
}