Focus Newsletter for the first week of December, 2007

MD PTA CONVENTION PERSONAL REFLECTION

By Caryn Lasser, Atholton High PTSA President

The MD PTA Fall Convention was an excellent opportunity for leadership training, networking, and learning.  Participating in the general sessions and workshops afforded me the chance to increase my understanding of both our state and national organizations, allowed me to vote on the business of our state - specifically, amendments to bylaws, legislative platform, and election of officers, expanded my knowledge of parliamentary procedure, and motivated me by listening to several excellent keynote speakers.  

There were 18 workshops offered during three sessions on topics covering a broad specturm of the work we do and the information we need to become more effective PTA leaders.  Each workshop included valuable walk-away ideas, many which came from sharing of best practices by other attendees.  I attended sessions on "7 Things Your Teenager Won't Tell You (and How to Talk About Them Anyway)" presented by author Jennifer Lippincott, "National Standards for the Family School Partnerships" presented by Betsy Landers, National PTA Secretary-Treasurer, and "Connecting Dreams to Education" presented by keynote speaker Darrell Andrews.  Each session gave me great ideas to implement in my school and enhanced my personal growth.  

There was one aspect of the convention that left me perplexed.  I was the sole delegate from Howard County.  I was at a loss to answer questions there when people asked me why no one from any other school in Howard County, nor any officer or chair from PTACHC attended.  Convention is an experience which is very worthwhile.  I truely hope that next year we have a strong showing.  

PARENT INVOLVEMENT SCHOOL OF EXCELLENCE CERTIFICATION

Receiving this distinction indicates to parents and the community at large that your school has demonstrated a commitment to making parent involvement a top priority.  Apply Now!  Go to:  www.pta.org/picert for more info

CALENDAR  Happy Holidays to all

Jan. 2, 2008   All Reflections entries due to council office

Jan. 7. 2008   PTA Council general meeting 7:30 pm at DOE

THANK YOU FOR BEING AN ADVOCATE FOR EVERY CHILD!