When my kids were little, our PTA wanted to work with the school administration to make an orientation guide. There was no information given to parents at all before showing up on the first day. It was chaotic and overwhelming for the parents and the kids. The principal was ready to retire and refused to take any part in such a project. The PTA at that school did a lot for the kids. If there is a PTA organized in your local school, the main office would be able to put you in contact with the parents who lead it. I found these parents to be familiar with the whole school and helpful with all kinds of information about the community. I met some good friends from volunteering on PTA committees too.