A Season of Giving, a New Year of Opportunity

We give to our friends and family during the holidays.  We give thanks and, of course, we give presents.  We also give donations to our favorite charities.  But how much are we giving of ourselves the rest of the year to those we hold dearest – our children?  The gift of parent involvement is one of the greatest things we could ever give a child because it will reward them for a lifetime.

During this season of giving, let’s encourage all parents to give a little bit more where it matters most!  With the school year nearly half over, how many parents are making good on their promise from the Three for Me program?  Use this halfway marker to remind them of their commitment to give time to their children’s education.  Are you planning a second half membership drive?  Take advantage of the generous spirit and general good will that comes with this time of year to speak to non-members about “giving” to the school community in the new year.

As first semesters and 2007 calendars come to close, let’s also review the results of our first half.  Are we welcoming new families into the school community?  How did the fall programs fare?  Is your PTA connecting with parents, the school, and the community?  Our children deserve the best possible chance to succeed – let’s make sure we give it to them.

In 2008, PTA will offer plenty of opportunities for everyone to support student success and well-being.  In February, Take Your Family to School Week will literally bring moms, dads, siblings, caretakers, and others into the classroom for a learning experience like no other.  Community members will also have a chance to support children this February during Advocacy Week, when we all speak up and demand more for all children.  There are so many ways to give – we only need to establish the connections that will make them fruitful.

So let the giving begin with the holidays – and carry through all year!

Jan Harp Domene
PTA National President