“CALL TO CONVENTION”

93rd ANNUAL

West Virginia PTA Convention

REGISTRATION INFORMATION

CONVENTION WORKSHOPS AND SCHEDULESHOTEL INFORMATION

April 15-16, 2016

Lakeview Golf Resort ~ Morgantown

Invitation to Convention April 15-16, 2016

Dear Local PTA Presidents, County Council Presidents, Teachers, and Principals,

The West Virginia Congress of Parents and Teachers, Inc., hereby calls its members to send delegates and representatives to the 93rd Annual West Virginia PTA Convention in Morgantown, WV, April 15-16, 2016.

On behalf of the West Virginia PTA Board of Managers, I invite and encourage your PTAs to attend this year! Convention is a great opportunity to become more engaged in PTA, attend relevant workshops, receive leadership development, attend the business meetings of the association, and be motivated by outstanding keynote speakers and presenters. The state convention is great for leaders at all levels. Any and all PTA members including our youth are welcome to join us!

Janelle Sperry WV PTA President

2015-2017 Whether this will be your first convention or you have attended in the past, convention is rewarding and inspiring!

This year, we have listened to your requests and are providing professional speakers on the latest topics surrounding education and the needs of our children. For some fun after a long day of workshops and meetings, we will be hosting a Hawaiian Luau and Game Night so make sure to pack a Hawaiian shirt! You will find a great schedule of events in this Call to Convention that will conclude with the Awards Banquet featuring Andrea Santos, 2016 West Virginia Teacher of the Year delivering the keynote address, and the Scholarship Auction featuring donations from PTAs across the state!

We are extremely proud to add workshops for our special needs families this year. Professional speakers will present information on understanding the ins and outs of the special education process in the school system, self-advocacy, as well as additional information and resources. It is our mission to include all families into the PTA and we are eager to improve our convention by providing these additional workshops. Please see further details in this Call to Convention.

For over 90 years, West Virginia PTA has advocated for every child, to ensure that our children grow to be healthy, strong, well-educated and become a productive member of our communities. It is this passion that drives us to improve schools and education across the state because we all want the best for our children. The theme of this year’s convention, “Cruising into the Future,” not only reminds us of the decades of work that has been accomplished, but the importance of remaining educated and involved in our children’s lives moving into the future.

In this Call to Convention, you will find essential items for attending convention which include hotel accommodations, registration form, the tentative schedule of events, and information about our workshops and presenters. I’m looking forward to seeing you at the 93rd Annual West Virginia PTA Convention so make your plans today!

Yours in PTA,

Janelle Sperry West Virginia PTA President

The mission of West Virginia PTA is make every child’s potential a reality by engaging and empowering families and communities to advocate for all children.

ADVANCE REGISTRATION POSTMARKED BY MARCH 31, 2016

$ 90.00 PTA MEMBER PACKAGE INCLUDES: Registration Fee, Speed Vending Luncheon, Breaks, Hawaiian Luau, Student Awards Luncheon, and Awards Banquet.

Advance Registration only (no meals): $ 60.00 Registration (PTA member) $ 80.00 Registration (Non-PTA member) $ 25.00 Registration (Students)

ON-SITE REGISTRATION OR POSTMARKED AFTER MARCH 31, 2016 $ 80.00 per PTA member $100.00 per Non-PTA member

$ 35.00 per student

OPTIONAL TICKETED EVENTS/MEALS AFTER MARCH 31, 2016

Speed Vending Luncheon (Friday) $15.00 Hawaiian Luau and Game Night (Friday) $25.00 Student Awards Recognition Luncheon (Saturday) $15.00 Adult - Awards Banquet (Saturday) $30.00 Child – Awards Banquet (Saturday) $15.00 Under age 12, choice of regular meal including beef and chicken

OR chicken tenders, french fries and salad

HOTEL INFORMATION & FEES

A group rate of $89 (plus applicable taxes) is available to convention attendees. In order to receive the group rate, please book your overnight lodging directly with the hotel no later than March 14, 2016. Remember to identify “WV PTA Convention” to receive the discounted rate! Price includes double occupancy and increases $10.00 per person with a maximum of four (4) people per room.

Refrigerator/microwave are available in rooms on a first come, first serve basis for a $10 charge. Hot Breakfast for up to two (2) people is included in the room rate. (Hospitality Room will be available as well). Checks payable to Lakeview Golf Resort and Spa will be accepted from your local PTA. To avoid sales tax, please bring your completed tax exempt form at check-in.

Lakeview Golf Resort and Spa 1 Lakeview Drive, Morgantown, WV 26508 (304) 594-1111www.lakeviewresort.comGroup Code: WV PTA Convention

The Lakeview Resort has complimentary parking and wireless Internet throughout the building.

Registration & Hotel Fees

7:00 pm – 10:00 pm Registration and PTA Shop

Friday, April 15

8:00 am - 10:00 am Hospitality Suite 8:00 am - 12:00 pm Registration and PTA Shop 2:00 pm - 4:00 pm Registration and PTA Shop 6:00 pm - 7:00 pm Hospitality Suite 6:00 pm - 7:00 pm Registration and PTA Shop

Saturday, April 16 8:00 am - 10:00 am Registration and PTA Shop 8:00 am - 11:30 am Hospitality Suite 2:00 pm - 3:00 pm Registration and PTA Shop

Convention Registration Hours and Directions

RE GISTRATION, PTA SHOP AND HO SPITALITY

SUITE SCHEDULE

Thursday, April 14

The Hospitality Suite is provided by the West Virginia PTA and will provide breakfast items as well as snacks and

drinks throughout the convention for our delegates at the hours listed.

DIRECTIONS TO LAKEVIEW

From the Eastern Region:

Take 81 North and turn onto I-70W Exit, Exit 4B, toward Hancock. Merge onto I-68W, Exit 1A on the left toward Cumberland. Merge onto WV-43 N/Mon-Fayette Expy N via Exit 10 toward Cheat Lake/Uniontown PA. Take Exit 1 toward County Highway-857 Cheat Lake/Fairchance Rd. Turn left onto County Hwy-88/1 Bowers Lane. Turn right onto Fairchance Rd – County Hwy-857. Turn left onto Lakeview Manor Drive which turns into Lakeview Drive!

From the Western Region:

Merge onto US-50 East toward Clarksburg. Merge onto I-79N toward Fairmont. Merge onto I-68 East via exit 148toward Cumberland. Take exit 7 toward WV-705/Airport/Pierpont Rd. Turn right onto CheatRoad/County Hwy-857. Continue to follow County Hwy-857. Turn right onto Lakeview Manor Drive which turns intoLakeview Drive!

From the Southern Region:

Merge onto I-64 toward I-77/I-79/Beckley. Merge onto I-77N via exit 59 on the left toward I-79 Parkersburg. Take I-79N via exit 104 toward Clarksburg. Merge onto I-68 East via exit 148 toward Cumberland. Take exit 7 toward WV-705/Airport/Pierpont Rd. Turn right onto Cheat Road/County Hwy-857. Continue to follow County Hwy-857. Turn right onto Lakeview Manor Drive which turns into Lakeview Drive!

From the Northern Region:

Merge onto I-70 East toward New Stanton. Merge onto I-79 South via /Exit 21 toward I-79 South/Morgantown. Merge onto I-68 East via exit 148 toward Cumberland. Take exit 7 toward WV-705/Airport/Pierpont Rd. Turn right onto Cheat Road/County Hwy-857. Continue to follow County Hwy-857. Turn right onto Lakeview Manor Drive which turns into Lakeview Drive!

THURSDAY, APRIL 14, 2016

7:00 pm – 10:00 pm President’s Welcome Reception

FRIDAY, APRIL 15, 2016

8:30 am - 9:00 am First Timers' Orientation 9:00 am - 7:00 pm Vendor Hall Open 9:00 am - 9:45 am Workshops - Session I 10:00 am - 10:45 am Workshops - Session II 11:00 am - 12:00 pm Speaker: STEM 12:15 pm - 1:45 pm Speed Vending Lunch 2:00 pm - 2:45 pm Speaker: Common Core 3:00 pm - 3:45 pm Speaker: Grant Writing 3:45 pm - 4:00 pm Snack Break 4:00 pm - 6:00 pm General Session I 7:00 pm -10:00 pm Hawaiian Luau/Game Night

SATURDAY, APRIL 16, 2016

9:00 am - 9:45 am Mock PTA Meeting and Parliamentary Procedures

10:00 am - 11:30 am Speaker: Digital World: Child Internet Safety/Social Media

12:00 pm - 2:00 pm Student Awards Luncheon 2:15 pm - 3:15 pm Speaker: Raising Your

Voice for Special Needs Students 3:30 pm - 5:30 pm General Session II 6:00 pm - 6:30 pm Doors Open for Awards Banquet 6:30 pm - 8:00 pm Awards Banquet

Scholarship Auction

*There is a separate schedule for Youth Attendees

2016 WV PTA Convention Schedule

President’s Welcome Reception

After you check-in, join the State President for appetizers at her welcome reception and

meet the other WV PTA Board of Manager members!

Hawaiian Luau and Game Night

Dress in your favorite Hawaiian clothing and enjoy a luau with great food followed

by Game Night!

Awards Banquet and Scholarship Auction

The official end of our Convention where students, volunteers, educators, and

PTAs are recognized for their hard work followed by our

scholarship auction!

Keynote Speakers

Michael J. Martirano, EdD., WV Superintendent of SchoolsDr. Michael Martirano began serving as West Virginia’s 30th state superintendent of schools in September 2014. Martirano has been an educator for 30 years and has amassed a wide range of educational and administrative experience through his work as a science teacher, principal and visiting professor at John Hopkins University. Most recently, he served as superintendent of St. Mary’s County Public Schools in Leonardtown, Maryland.

As a risk-taker and innovator; he consistently focuses his energy on improving academic success and building positive relationships. He was selected the 2009 Superintendent of the Year in Maryland and a 2010 Innovator of the Year by the Maryland Daily Record.

Martirano holds a Doctorate of Education degree in school management and instructional leadership from Nova, Southeastern University, two Masters of Education degrees and a Bachelor of Science degree from the University of Maryland.

Enrique Escallon, National PTA Board of Directors Enrique serves on the National PTA Special Needs Committee and the Diversity, Membership, Male Engagement, and Exceptional Child Committees in Florida. He serves on the District (Miami-Dade) Legislative Committee and is the Local Unit President (John A. Ferguson High School PTSA).

His previous service includes the National PTA Diversity Committee, and has served on the Exceptional Child/Early Childhood Committee, Legislative, District (Miami-Dade) Treasurer, and various roles in his Local Units. He has served on the Superintendent Advisory Panel for Exceptional Students and Services, Florida Alliance for Assistive Technology and Services, and Parent to Parent of Miami.

Enrique’s previous service includes Chairman of the Florida Developmental Disabilities Council, Chairman of Exceptional Students (Fla. DOE) member, State Advisory Committee for the Education of Exceptional Students, and Chairman of the Hurricane District of the Boy Scouts of America.

Andrea Santos – 2016 West Virginia Teacher of the Year Andréa Santos from Logan High School in Logan County is known for her positivity, inspiration, and ability to reach out to troubled students. Teaching grades 9-12, she shows her students how to strive for excellence, respect others, appreciate and explore cultural diversity and language, and break down barriers that attempt to hold them back. She believes that her students are the most important element of her career and that every advancement in her profession is entirely for them.

Andréa Santos is a 22 ½-year veteran who received a Bachelor of Science degree (summa cum laude) in Education from West Virginia State University. As a Spanish teacher, she has received a WV OEPA Commendation for facilitating the development and modification of the current Logan County Secondary Schools Multiculturalism and Diversity handbook, “Unity in Diversity” to be used as a cross curricular guide

for county educators. She is a member of the Logan High School Leadership Team, the WV Policy 5000 Hiring Committee for Logan High School, the Logan High School Freshman Academy Team, and the Logan County Staff Development Council.

Keith Schumacher – National Coordinator, Watch DOGS Keith Schumacher is a National Coordinator for WATCH D.O.G.S. ® (Dads Of Great Students), a father engagement program of the National Center for Fathering. Keith has been teaching and caring for children for over 30 years. This was not done as a teacher, but as a firefighter, paramedic and a police officer. Over the years he has facilitated many fire safety presentations, station group tours and even a firehouse story time.

He became involved in the WATCH D.O.G.S. program when he brought it to the school where his wife, Carolyn teaches first grade and his daughters attended at the time. He served as Top Dog Coordinator for several years and continues to be a Charter Member of the PTA. He is currently serving as Male Involvement Advisor on the Georgia PTA State Board of Directors. He is also currently the Top Dog Coordinator at the middle and high schools where his daughters Gracie and Anna Marie attend. He lives in Acworth, GA with

his wife of 27 years and their daughters. They are proud to have assisted over 20 couples in completing domestic and international adoptions.

2016 West Virginia PTA Convention Workshop Highlights

Workshop Session I

PTA PROGRAMS AND TOOLS YOU CAN USE Presenter: Enrique Escallon, National PTA

Participants will learn about the PTA’s National Standards for Family-School Partnerships, as well as the array of PTA programs and resources available to further the implementation of these standards locally and achieve PTA’s mission – to make every child’s potential a reality by engaging and empowering families and communities to advocate for all children.

TREASURER’S 101 – ALL YOU NEED TO KNOW Presenter: Chris Wuest, West Virginia PTA Treasurer

Maintaining a fiscally responsible PTA is imperative. This workshop will cover the basic responsibilities that every Treasurer needs to know even if you have accounting experience. You will learn not only what you need to do but why it is important to do it. This workshop will cover the basics from your role in developing the budget, preparing treasurer’s reports, audits, tax filing (990), and what to do if your unit has lost their tax exempt status with the IRS (revocation). This is a MUST for treasurers!

BUILDING AN EFFECTIVE PTA FROM A PRINCIPAL’S PERSPECTIVE Presenter: Esther Lauderman, Education Consultant

Mutual understanding, respect, open communication, and positive reinforcement are key ingredients for building successful partnerships between your principal and volunteers. In order to build effective relationships, school administrators and PTA leaders need to work together because ultimately they share a common goal and want their schools and students to succeed. Join this workshop session to learn how to develop a successful partnership from the principal’s perspective.

Select from one of the following Workshops available on Friday, April 15th from 9:00 am to 9:45 am

Workshop Session II

WATCH D.O.G.S. AND THE IMPORTANCE OF MALE ENGAGEMENT Presenter: Keith Schumacher, National Coordinator, WATCH D.O.G.S.

WATCH D.O.G.S. (Dads Of Great Students) is a program of the National Center for Fathering focusing on the prevention of violence in schools by using the positive influence of fathers and father-figures to be a positive role-model for students. WATCH D.O.G.S. are fathers, grandfathers, uncles, and other father-figures who volunteer at least one full day during the school year at an official WATCH D.O.G.S. school. Learn all about the WATCH D.O.G.S. program from the National Coordinator!

IDEA SHARING! Presenter: Linda Abercrombie, West Virginia PTA Board of Managers

Need new fundraising ideas for your PTA or would you like to hear about other great program ideas or events? Meet with members of the PTA from around the state and hear about their successful programs and get fresh, new ideas for your own PTA! This is an “Idea Sharing” workshop so come with your ideas to share with others and learn what has been working with other PTA’s from across the state.

ASSESSING THE STATE OF STUDENT ASSESSMENT Presenter: Mindy Brinson, Renaissance Learning

In this session you will learn more about K12 student assessment in general, how assessment can and should be used in the classroom to increase student engagement and individualize instruction, and what to watch out for to prevent over-testing in your schools. This will be a dynamic session with multimedia, interactivity and a little positive activism thrown in, meant for anyone who is interested in the current world of student assessment.

Select from one of the following Workshops available on Friday, April 15th from 10:00 am to 10:45 am

2016 West Virginia PTA Convention Special Presentations for Everyone!

“What Your PTA Can Do to Promote STEM Education” Lisa Ketchum, Director of Development, The Education Alliance Friday, April 11 ~ 11:00 am – 12:00 pm How can we help our schools increase access to STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering and Math) experiences for all students and inspire the next generation of STEM professionals. STEM education is vital to our future—the future of our country, the future of our state and the future of our children. If the United States is to maintain its global leadership and competitive position, then we have to motivate our most promising students into the STEM fields.

“Status of Common Core and Standardized Testing In West Virginia” Question and Answer Session Presented by: Clayton Burch, Chief Academic Officer, WV Department of Education Friday, April 15 ~ 2:00 pm – 2:45 pm This workshop will provide the tools that will help your unit anticipate and respond to questions about Common Core and PTA. There is already a degree of controversy and debate surrounding Common Core, particularly PTA's support of this major national initiative. This question and answer session will allow you to direct any questions about where WV stands with Common Core, Standardized Testing, and any questions you may have about its future in our state.

“The Basics of Grant Writing” Alice Ruhnke, Founder and Owner, The Grant Advantage Friday, April 15 ~ 3:00 pm – 3:45 pm Over the past decade, Alice Ruhnke has worked with hundreds of nonprofit organizations to help them increase their organizational capacity and secure funding. She has raised over $6.2 million writing federal, state, foundation, and corporate grants and has been in charge of awarding & monitoring federal funds to nonprofits throughout West Virginia.

“Our Digital World: How to Keep Schools and Kids Safe” Presented by: Erin Thwaites, National PTA Saturday, April 16 ~ 10:00 am – 11:30 am Erin is currently the Associate Manager of Health & Safety Programs at National PTA where she oversees programs related to digital safety, mental and emotional health, and youth engagement. She helped develop and launch The Smart Talk, a new digital tool for families which helps parents establish smart ground rules for technology use. This workshop will focus on internet safety and how we can keep our kids safe.

“Raising Your Voice for Special Needs Students” Enrique Escallon, National PTA Board of Directors Saturday, April 16 ~ 2:15 pm – 3:15 pm Participants will explore ways to advocate within the education system and to local, state, and federal government officials on behalf of special needs students. Participants will consider diverse advocacy tools that take into account key federal policies in addition to local and state challenges.

Check out this year’s amazing presentations!

THURSDAY, APRIL 14, 2016

7:00 pm – 10:00 pm President’s Welcome Reception

FRIDAY, APRIL 15, 2016

8:30 am - 9:00 am First Timer’s Orientation 9:00 am - 7:00 pm Vendor Hall Open 9:00 am - 9:45 am Youth Workshop - Session I 10:00 am - 10:45 am Youth Workshop - Session II 11:00 am - 11:45 pm Youth Workshop - Session III 12:15 pm - 1:45 pm Speed Vending Lunch 2:00 pm - 3:45 pm BYOD (Bring Your Own Device)

Game Time in the Youth Lounge 3:45 pm - 4:00 pm Snack Break 4:00 pm - 6:00 pm General Session I 7:00 pm -10:00 pm Hawaiian Luau/Game Night

SATURDAY, APRIL 16, 2016

9:00 am - 10:00 am “Sad, Mad, Glad” Workshop by Jim Strawn, Highland Hospital

10:00 am - 11:30 am “Hands-On Healthy Foods” Cooking Workshop by Pam Shank

12:00 pm - 2:00 pm Student Awards Luncheon 2:15 pm - 3:15 pm Speaker: Raising Your

Voice for Special Needs Students 3:30 pm - 5:30 pm Youth Lounge (Movie Time!) 6:00 pm - 6:30 pm Doors Open for Awards Banquet 6:30 pm - 8:30 pm Awards Banquet followed by the

Scholarship Auction

*WVPTA is not responsible for any loss or damage to electronic devicesbrought to convention by our youth attendees.

Youth Workshops will include student involvement in the PTSA, a scavenger hunt, and fun, youth

topics!

Bring Your Own Device!

Our Youth will have their own “youth lounge” next to the hospitality suite. On Friday, after a busy morning of workshops, they will have time to relax and play video

games and old-school board games together!

YOUTH TENTATIVE SCHEDULE

West Virginia PTA welcomes our yo uth to attend and participate in their own Youth Workshops and activities! Encourage your youth

to participate!

All PTA members are eligible to be credentialed to vote in the business portions of the Annual West Virginia PTA Convention. The West Virginia PTA Bylaws state: Article XIX, Section 2. Voting Body.

a. The meetings of the West Virginia PTA convention shall be open to all members, upon payment of a registration fee determined by the West Virginia PTA Executive Committee, but the privilege of making motions, debating, and voting shall be limited to members of the board of managers, presidents of county councils or alternates chosen by their councils and accredited delegates or alternates from each local PTA unit. A voting member shall have but one vote although entitled to vote in any of several capacities. The courtesy of the floor may be extended to registered visitors and guest speakers at the discretion of the chair.

b. Each local unit in good standing as shown by March 15 current year by the books of the state treasurer, shall be entitled to be represented at the West Virginia PTA convention by its president or alternate and by one voting delegate or alternate for every twenty-five (25) members, or fraction thereof.

c. Each council president, or their alternate chosen by the council is a voting member of the West Virginia PTA convention.

Local Unit Voting Delegate Allotment

Number

of Members

Number of Voting

Delegates 1-25 2

26-50 3 51-75 4

76-100 5 101-125 6 126-150 7 151-175 8 176-200 9 201-225 10 226-250 11 251-275 12 276-300 13 301-325 14 326-350 15

Voting Credential Information

See chart above to determine how many voting delegates to which your unit is entitled. Your PTA may and is encouraged to send additional attendees to Convention above the number of voting delegates your unit is entitled. Even though they will not be eligible to vote, the convention is a valuable experience for all PTA members and they will still receive training and workshop experiences. If your local unit or county council submits registration forms with voting delegates that exceed the total number allowed, we will contact the President of your unit to make the appropriate corrections. If you have any questions, please contact the office by emailing office@westvirginiapta.org. Upon presentation of your membership card at the registration desk at Convention, each voting delegate shall receive their voting delegate card, which is the card that signifies their voting status during this convention. Delegates have the opportunity to vote on decisions that affect West Virginia PTA and local PTAs, including their leadership and organizational structure. It is very important to ensure that every local unit is represented at convention. The items presented to the convention delegates can be found in this Call to Convention.

SPECIAL NOTE: We will not be mailing out “voting credential cards” in this Call to Convention. In the past, these cards needed to be filled out and signed by the Local Unit/County Council President and the delegate and presented at the registration table. This year, we have added a section to the registration form which indicates if you are registering as a voting delegate. Your unit president MUST sign the registration form in the appropriate place to confirm your eligibility to vote on behalf of your unit. Eliminating this extra step will save the West Virginia PTA money on printing and postage, which can now be allocated in more efficient ways.

T-Shirt and Door Decorating Contests

DOOR DECORATING CONTEST

We’ve brought back the famous “Door Decorating Contest”! Join your fellow PTA members by decorating your hotel room door around this year’s theme “Cruising into the Future” with the PTA!

A prize will be awarded to the room with the most creative door decorating!

Remember to use tape that will not destroy your door and can be easily removed. Any damage to your door will be your responsibility. But there are plenty of alternatives to use that will not cause damage and can be easily removed.

Let’s show everyone at Lakeview Golf Resort that we are filling the hotel with PTA members! Judging will take place Saturday morning and winners will be announced at General Session II. Have fun!

T-SHIRT DESIGN CONTEST

Join your fellow PTA members during General Session II on Saturday by designing and wearing a custom made t-shirt for your PTA showing your spirit!

A prize will be awarded to the individual or group with the best shirt design!

This will be a great opportunity to have fun, network, and learn about your fellow PTA members! All you need to do is come up with a t-shirt design for your delegates to wear at Saturday’s General Session!

Last year’s winners created a fun crossword puzzle using the PTA theme and each PTA got to participate in a parade of the best shirts!

“Self Advocacy for Parents” Todd Rundle, Center for Disabilities for Excellence 9:00 am – 10:15 am

Self Advocacy - come learn how to be a strong voice for your child. This session promises to give parents the places to go to when in need, plus the tools to be an effective voice for their child at school, in the community, the medical community and beyond. There will be a question and answer period as well. This will be a great time to bond and network with other parents.

“Understanding the Special Education Process” Nancy Cline, West Virginia Department of Education 10:30 am – 11:45 am

This session will give parents the “ins and outs” about the Special Education Process. What to expect, what tests are completed, what do all those terms mean to your child, you and your family. There will be time to ask the presenter from the State Board of Education any questions you may have and hopefully provide the answers you need.

“West Virginia PTA Student Awards Recognition Luncheon” Reflections on the Lake Ballroom 12:00pm – 2:00 pm Luncheon is $12.00 per person Pre-registration is required by March 31 in order to reserve seating at the luncheon.

The student recognition luncheon recognizes our winners in the National PTA Reflections Program and West Virginia PTA Student Healthy Recipe Challenge. We include a Special Artists' Division in the Reflections program to encourage all children with disabilities to participate. So please join us for the luncheon and view the art, literature, photography, music, dance choreography, and film production winners from across West Virginia. *You may have lunch on your own, if desired.

“Raising Your Voice for Special Needs Students” Enrique Escallon, National PTA Board of Directors 2:15 pm – 3:15 pm

Participants will explore ways to advocate within the education system and to local, state, and federal government officials on behalf of special needs students. Participants will consider diverse advocacy tools that take into account key federal policies in addition to local and state challenges.

NEW! 2016 Special Needs Summit – Saturday, April 16

West Vir ginia PTA is proud to announce t hat we are hosting additional workshops specifically designed for our Special Needs families on Saturday, April 16. These workshops are FREE to any parent in West Virginia and pre-registration is required because space is limited to the first 50 people that sign up. See following page.

We would also like to extend an invitation to these participants to attend our WV PTA Student Awards Recognition Luncheon. The cost is $12.00 per person. This is an optional luncheon and you may have lunch on your own during this time, if desired.

While parents are attending the morning sessions from 9 am to 11:45 am, we will provide activities for your children so you may fully participate in the workshops. This is limited to the first (25) children that are registered.

Schedule and Workshop Descriptions

Pre-Registration is required for all workshops and seating is limited to the first 50 people that pre-register.

• West Virginia PTA has arranged activities for your school-aged children between 9:00 am – 11:45 am so that you may attend the workshops and fully participate. There is a maximum of 25 students and will be registered on a first come, first serve basis.

• The Student Awards Recognition Luncheon is from 12:00 pm – 2:00 pm and is $12.00 per person. Checks should be made payable to WVPTA and are due by March 31. This is an optional event and lunch can be on your own, if desired.

• If you have any special dietary restrictions or require special accommodations to fully participate in this year’s convention workshops, please indicate, in detail, on the back of this form.

• Email Ginnie Molnar with any questions (diversity@westvirginiapta.org)

WORKSHOP REGISTRATION FORM (please use a separate form for each adult registering)

Name (as it should appear on badge):

Student’s Name (as it should appear on badge): ______________________________________________

Address:

City: State: Zip:

Phone: E-mail: __________________

Local PTA (if member): ________________________________________________________________

Special Needs Summit - Registration Form

STUDENT REGISTRATION (9:00 am – 11:45 am) FOR ACTIVITIES PROVIDED BY WV PTA (maximum 25 students)

Child’s Name: ___________________________________________ Age of Child: ___________________________________________

I would like to sign up my child for the activities WV PTA will be providing on Saturday, April 16.

My child has dietary restrictions. Please list: ___________________________________________________________________________________ ___________________________________________________________________________________

My child has the following medical needs or concerns:

___________________________________________________________________________________ ___________________________________________________________________________________

REFLECTIONS LUNCHEON (12:00 pm – 2:00 pm) $12.00 per person, includes rigatoni & meatballs, salad, garlic bread, dessert and drink

I would like to reserve ________tickets for the Reflections Luncheon on April 16 for the following people: ____________________________________ ____________________________________ ____________________________________ ____________________________________

I am enclosing a check payable to WVPTA totaling $12.00 per person.

Mail registration forms and payment for luncheon to: WV PTA PO Box 3557 Parkersburg, WV 26103

Join West Virginia PTA for the 2016 Student Award Recognition Luncheon

Honoring

2016 Reflections Award Recipients and

2016 Student Healthy Recipe Award Recipients

The Student Awards Luncheon will be held at the

Lakeview Golf Resort “Reflections on the Lake Ballroom”

1 Lakeview Drive Morgantown, WV 26103

Saturday, April 16, 2016 at 12:00 p.m.

All Convention Attendees are encouraged to join us for the 2016 Student Award Recognition Luncheon.

This event is included in your convention registration fee.

2015-2016 WEST VIRGINIA PTA

ANNUAL AWARDS BANQUETCounty Council Award

Local Unit Award Outstanding Teacher of the Year Award Outstanding Principal of the Year Award

Outstanding Service Personnel of the Year Award Outstanding Business Partner of the Year

STAR Volunteer Award Local Unit Great Program Idea Award

Unit Standards Achievement Award (NEW!) Local Unit Great Membership Campaign Idea

Award Student's Good Job Award Scrapbook Award

DEADLINE FOR APPLICATIONS: March 1, 2016AWARDS BANQUET: April 16, 2016

FOR MORE INFORMATION: Visit www.westvirginiapta.org or email

info@westvirginiapta.org

Scholarship Auction

The West Virginia PTA Scholarship Auction is being held in conjunction with the West Virginia PTA Convention at the Lakeview Golf Resort in Morgantown. The auction will be held Saturday, April 16th, immediately following the awards banquet and is open to the public!

Proceeds from the auction benefit the West Virginia PTA Scholarship Fund. Recipients of the West Virginia PTA Scholarship will be recognized during the Awards Banquet on Saturday.

Basket theme ideas include:

Gardening Chocolate Lovers Book Lovers Game Night Movie Night Sports Cookie Baking Beach School Supplies Relaxation WVU Theme Cooking Toy Theme Italian Themed Dog/Cat Theme Kitchen Utensils Food – Cake Pops and Fudge!

All local units, County Councils and individual PTA members are encouraged to donate items to the auction. Please bring your items to the convention. You may leave them at the registration desk upon arrival.

Please remember to label your donation with a tag or card listing your name and/or school and amount of the donated item. For further information, please contact the West Virginia PTA Scholarship Chair, Linda Abercrombie at scholarship@westvirginiapta.org.

West Virginia PTA Members and Registered Delegates to the 2016 State Convention: The following document is to inform you of amendments to the STATE Bylaws that will be brought forward for your consideration during the state convention in April. Please note the following:

• The bylaws being amended are the West Virginia PTA bylaws, not the unit or council uniform bylaws. This document governs how your state Board of Managers operates.

• The proposed amendments provided to you in this document were brought forward to the state Board of Managers by the Bylaws Committee. Board members had the opportunity to debate the proposed amendments, and then voted to send the amendments as presented to the convention for adoption.

• Words to be stricken will be shown with a strike-through mark: example • Words to be added will be shown with an underline: example

AMENDMENT 1: #Article VIII - Officers: Election and Vacancies, Section 9a: Qualifications

Currently #Article VIII – Officers: Election and Vacancies; Section 9a reads as follows: “Only a current member of the West Virginia PTA Board of Managers, holding membership in a local unit, shall be eligible to hold office in the West Virginia PTA.” Proposed Amendment: Amend by striking out Section 9a in its entirety and insert the following words (underlined): Only a current member of the West Virginia PTA Board of Managers, holding membership in a local unit, shall be eligible to hold office in the West Virginia PTA. Current members of the West Virginia PTA Board of Managers holding membership in a local unit in good standing, as well as any PTA member, of a local unit in good standing, shall be eligible to hold office in the West Virginia PTA, with the exception of the position of president-elect. Only current members of the West Virginia PTA Board of Managers, holding membership in a local unit in good standing, shall be eligible to hold the office of president-elect. All applicants must be 18 years of age, adhere to election policies and submit an application with his/her qualifications to the nominating committee, 30 days prior to the annual convention. See Article XIV, Section 3, Qualifications For Nominations.

Rationale: The West Virginia PTA would like to ensure the longevity of the association by expanding the eligibility requirements to hold office. Current members of the West Virginia PTA Board of Managers as well as any PTA member shall now be eligible to hold a position on the state board, if eligibility requirements are met.

Proposed Bylaw Amendments

AMENDMENT 2: #Article IX – Duties of Officers, Section 5b

Currently #Article IX - Duties of Officers, Section 5b reads as follows:

Cause notice to be given of all annual conventions, all meetings of the executive committee and the board of managers. The secretary shall transmit copies of the minutes to each member of the board of managers within thirty (30) days.

Proposed Amendment: Amend by striking out #Article IX, Section 5b in its entirety and insert the following words (underlined):

Cause notice to be given of all annual conventions, all meetings of the executive committee and the board of managers. The secretary shall transmit copies of the minutes to each member of the board of managers within thirty (30) days.

Cause notice to be given of all meetings of the executive committee and the board of managers. The secretary shall transmit copies of the minutes to each member of the board of managers within thirty (30) days following the conclusion(s) of any meeting(s), with the exception of the annual convention.Cause notice to be given of all annual conventions. The secretary shall transmit copies of the minutes to each member of the board of managers within forty-five days (45) days following the conclusion of the annual convention.

Rationale: The secretary should be given additional time to prepare the minutes following convention because of the additional responsibilities involved.

AMENDMENT 3: #Article IX – Duties of Officers, Section 6 (e)

Currently #Article IX – Duties of Officers, Section 6 (e) reads as follows: Present a statement of account at all meetings of the executive committee and the board of managers and at other times when requested to do so by the president and make a full report at each annual convention.

Proposed Amendment: Amend by striking Section 6 (e) in its entirety and reword as follows:

Present a statement of account at all meetings of the executive committee and the board of managers and at other times when requested to do so by the president and make a full report at each annual convention.

Present a statement of account, monthly, to all members of the Board of Managers and at other times when requested by the president and make a full report at each annual convention.

Rationale: By receiving a monthly report of the financial records of our association, the Board of Managers shall be more fiscally responsible.

AMENDMENT 4: #Article IX – Duties of Officers, Section 6 (g)

Currently no Article IX, Section 6 (g) exists.

Proposed Amendment: Amend by adding a new Section 6(g) to #Article IX to read as follows:

File, with proper proof of submittal, all applicable and properly completed - federal, state and/or local tax forms of the West Virginia PTA prior to the dates due, with copy of all such forms submitted & proof of submittal, to the President.

Rationale: The treasurer should be responsible for filing applicable tax forms to maintain compliance with the IRS.

AMENDMENT 5: Article IX – Duties of Officers; New Section 7a

Currently, there is no Article IX, Duties of Officers, Section 7 (a)

Proposed Amendment: Amend by adding new Article IX, Duties of Officers, Section 7 (a) and insert the following:

The newly-elected West Virginia PTA officers and at-large member shall adopt a budget within thirty (30) days prior to the beginning of the new fiscal year.

Rationale: This amendment allows the newly-elected officers and at-large member to set the budget for their term in office and sufficient time to do so.

Proviso: If Amendment 5 is not adopted, Amendment 6 will be amended for consideration.

AMENDMENT 6: Article IX – Duties of Officers, new Section 7 (b)

Current there is no Article IX, Section 7 (b)

Proposed Amendment: Amend by adding a new Section 7 (b):

The newly-elected officers and at-large member may approve appointments to the Board of Managers, by the incoming president, prior to assuming all other responsibilities on July 1.

Rationale: In order to facilitate the transition of a new West Virginia PTA Board of Managers, the newly elected executive committee shall begin the process of selecting members for the new administration prior to July 1.

Proviso: If Amendment 5 is not adopted, Amendment 6 is amended as follows: Article IX, Section 7 (a) The newly-elected officers and at-large member may approve appointments to the Board of Managers, by the incoming president, prior to assuming all other responsibilities on July 1.

AMENDMENT 7: Article XI – Board of Managers, Section 10 (a)

Current there is no Article XI, Section 10 (a)

Proposed Amendment: Amend by adding a new Section 10 (a):

The newly-elected officers and at-large member may approve appointments to the Board of Managers, by the incoming president, prior to assuming all other responsibilities on July 1.

Rationale: In order to facilitate the transition of a new West Virginia PTA Board of Managers, the newly elected executive committee shall begin the process of selecting members for the new administration prior to July 1.

AMENDMENT 8: Article XI, Board of Managers, Section 11(a) (Duties)

Currently Article XI - Board of Managers, Section 11 (a) reads as follows:

County council presidents serving on the West Virginia PTA Board of Managers shall lose their voting privileges on the board.

Proposed Amendment: Amend by striking Article XI, Section 11 (a) in its entirety.

County council presidents serving on the West Virginia PTA Board of Managers shall lose their voting privileges on the board.

Rationale: There are no county council president positions serving on the Board of Managers.

AMENDMENT 9: Article XI – Board of Managers (new Section 12)

Currently Article XI – Board of Managers, Section 12 does not exist.

Proposed Amendment: Article XI – Board of Managers: Amend by adding a new Section 12 to read as follows:

All officers, members of the Board of Managers, and/or Committee members, at the end of their term or upon resignation, shall properly relinquish all property of the West Virginia PTA. This shall include all contact(s) list(s), relevant communications, documents, marketing materials, keys, materials generated for the benefit of the West Virginia PTA, and any/all items purchased by and/or acquired through the West Virginia PTA, during their term. Relinquishment shall me made in person and a written receipt thereof shall be signed by a designated executive committee member and the relinquishing party.

Rationale: To facilitate the transition from one administration to the next, it is vital that any and all information that belongs to West Virginia PTA remain with the association.

AMENDMENT 10:

Article XII – Executive Committee, Section 1

Currently Article XII – Executive Committee, Section 1 reads as follows:

There shall be an executive committee of the West Virginia PTA, the members of which shall be:

a. All elected officers; andb. The at-large member elected to the Board of Managers

Proposed Amendment: Amend by striking out Section 1 in its entirety and inserting the following underlined words:

There shall be an executive committee of the West Virginia PTA, the members of which shall be:

c. All elected officers;d. The at-large member elected to the Board of Managers

There shall be an executive committee of the West Virginia PTA, the members of which shall be:

a. All elected officers;b. The at-large member (elected by the convention body)c. One representative from the Regional Directors (elected by their own body)d. One representative from the Program Coordinators (elected by their own body)

Rationale: To ensure that the views of the members are represented on the executive board, representatives of the regional directors and program coordinators would offer valuable input.

Proviso: If Amendment 10 is adopted, Amendment 11 shall be deemed adopted. If Amendment 10 is not adopted, Amendment 11 will be amended for consideration.

AMENDMENT 11: Article XII – Executive Committee, Section 2

Currently Article XII – Executive Committee, Section 2 reads as follows: Representatives of regional directors and program coordinators, and representative at large shall be elected at the first meeting of the West Virginia PTA Board of Managers following the state convention in an election year. They shall serve for the same term as the newly elected officers and are eligible for re-election to a second term. Proposed Amendment: Amend by striking Article XII, Section 2 in its entirety and inserting the following underlined words below: Section 2: Representatives of regional directors and program coordinators, and representative at large shall be elected at the first meeting of the West Virginia PTA Board of Managers following the state convention in an election year. They shall serve for the same term as the newly elected officers and are eligible for re-election to a second term. Section 2: The regional director representative and the program coordinator

representative shall be elected at the first meeting of the West Virginia PTA Board of Managers following the state convention in an election year. They shall serve the same term as the newly-elected officers.

Rationale: To ensure that the views of the members are represented on the executive board, representatives of the regional directors and program coordinators would offer valuable input. Proviso: If Amendment 10 was not adopted, Amendment 11 shall be amended as follows: Article XII, Section 2: Amend by striking in its entirety. Proposed Amendment: Representatives of regional directors and program coordinators, and representative at large shall be elected at the first meeting of the West Virginia PTA Board of Managers following the state convention in an election year. They shall serve for the same term as the newly elected officers and are eligible for re-election to a second term.

AMENDMENT 12 Article XIV, Section 3, Qualifications for Nominations

Currently Article XIV – Qualifications for Nominations, Section 3 reads as follows:

a. Only a current member of the West Virginia PTA Board of Managers, holdingmembership in a local unit, shall be eligible to hold office in the West VirginiaPTA.

b. Only a current member of the West Virginia PTA Board of Managers whosewritten consent has been secured shall be eligible for nomination either by thecommittee or from the floor.

Proposed Amendment: Amend Article XIV, Section 3 by striking (a) and (b) in its entirety and inserting the following:

a. Only a current member of the West Virginia PTA Board of Managers, holdingmembership in a local unit, shall be eligible to hold office in the West VirginiaPTA.

b. Only a current member of the West Virginia PTA Board of Managers whosewritten consent has been secured shall be eligible for nomination either by thecommittee or from the floor.

a. Current members of the West Virginia PTA Board of Managers holdingmembership in a local unit in good standing, as well as any PTA member, of alocal unit in good standing, shall be eligible to hold office in the West VirginiaPTA, with the exception of the position of president-elect. Only currentmembers of the West Virginia PTA Board of Managers, holding membership in alocal unit in good standing, shall be eligible to hold the office of president-elect.

b. All eligible applicants may be interviewed by members of the nominating andexecutive committees and are subject to approval. Two years of experience in alocal or county unit in good standing is required. References are required upon request. PTA members receiving approval from the nominating committee and whose written consent has been secured, shall be eligible for nomination either by the committee or from the floor.

Rationale: Current members of the West Virginia PTA Board of Managers as well as any PTA member shall now be eligible to hold a position on the state board, if specific requirements and qualifications are met.

Proviso: If Amendment 1 is not adopted, Amendment 12 will not be considered.

Local units, councils, and individuals who would like to send greetings in the Convention Program may now do so this year! The annual Convention is the official business meeting of the West Virginia PTA. At convention, delegates will meet old and new friends, attend workshops, gain valuable leadership skills, browse exhibitor booths, and plan the direction of the state PTA. Your support of PTA is greatly appreciated and your efforts are what make this association strong and successful. So think about giving a “shout-out” to someone in the Convention Program! Be sure to share this information with your PTA unit and council!

Information on submitting greeting ads is listed below. Please complete the request form and submit payment and greeting layout by March 31, 2016.

• Camera-ready ads may be submitted as color or black and white, but the convention program will be printedin black and white. Mail to West Virginia PTA, PO Box 3557, Parkersburg, WV 26103.

• Electronic file formats or photos that can be accepted include Word, JPG, and PDF.Email file to president@westvirginiapta.org

• You may also select to have West Virginia PTA design your ad!

CONVENTION GREETING AD FORM (Greeting ads are offered below regular convention advertising prices

and are not available to businesses)

Purchaser of ad: ______________________________________________ Name of person or PTA featured: ______________________________________________ Address: ______________________________________________ Email Address: ______________________________________________ Phone Number: ______________________________________________

Select Size of Greeting Ad: Full Page $75.00 ____________ Half Page $50.00 ____________ Quarter Page $25.00 ____________

Ad Copy:

__________ I have emailed the completed ad to president@westvirginiapta.org

__________ I would like WV PTA to design the ad and include the following information: ____________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________ ______________________________________________________________ ______________________________________________________________

______ (Optional) I have also emailed a photo of the above-referenced person or PTA to include in the ad created by West Virginia PTA, to president@westvirginiapta.org

___________ I have included a separate check payable to WVPTA for the purchase of a “Greeting Ad” in the 93rd Annual Convention Program Book.

NEW! Convention Greeting Ads

2016 West Virginia PTA Convention –T-Shirt Order Form

Please fill out the following for t-shirt orders:

Men’s Navy T-shirt (with rounded neck) $15.00 each (add $2.00 for 2XL and $3.00 for 3XL) (add $5.50 for name on back of shirt – print name neatly __________________________)

Small _____ Med _____ Large ______ XL_____ 2XL _____ 3XL _____ __________Total

Ladies Navy T-shirt (with v-neck) $15.00 each(add $2.00 for 2XL and $3.00 for 3XL)(add $2.50 for 3/4 length sleeve)(add $5.50 for name on back of shirt – print name neatly __________________________)

Small _____ Med _____ Large ______ XL_____ 2XL _____ 3XL _____ __________Total

Make check payable to West Virginia PTA (please include a separate check for all t-shirt orders)

Men’s Round Neck

Ladies V-Neck

All pre-ordered shirts will be

available at the registration

table.

ALL PRE-ORDERS ARE DUE MARCH 14, 2016

A few extra shirts will be available at the PTA Shop in various sizes, but only in limited sizes. We encourage you to pre-order!

A separate form is required for each registrant. This form may be duplicated. Advanced Registration must be received by March 31, 2016, to receive discounted registration fees. The availability of meal tickets cannot be guaranteed to late or walk-in registrants. Multiple registrations may be paid together with one check, but please use separate forms for each person. If you have any special dietary restrictions or require special accommodations to fully participate in this year’s convention, please indicate, in detail, on the back of this form.

Contact Information Name (as it should appear on badge):

Address:

City: State: Zip:

Phone: E-mail: ____________________________________

Local PTA/Council representing (only one): ________________________ Region: ______________

I will be a voting delegate at this year’s convention representing my PTA _______Yes _______No

____________________________________ (Unit President’s Signature confirming voting delegate) Please let us know if any of the following apply to you:

_____This will be my first state convention _____ I am a West Virginia PTA Life Member _______ I am a National PTA Life Member

Deadline for advanced registration discount is March 31, 2016

PTA Member Package (The Biggest Savings!) $90.00 (Includes Registration, Speed Vending Luncheon, Breaks, Hawaiian Luau and Game Night, Student

Awards Luncheon, and Awards Banquet.)

Individual Event Purchases (if not purchasing package above) $60.00 Registration Only (PTA Member) $80.00 Registration Only (Non PTA Member) $15.00 Speed Vending Luncheon $25.00 Hawaiian Luau and Game Night $15.00 Student Awards Luncheon $30.00 Awards Banquet

Student Member Package $50.00 (Includes Registration, Speed Vending Luncheon, Breaks, Hawaiian Luau and Game Night, Student

Awards Luncheon, and Awards Banquet.)

Additional Guest Meal Tickets: Speed Vending Luncheon: $15.00 each Number requested: ____________ Total: $___________ Hawaiian Luau: $25.00 each Number requested: ____________ Total:$___________ Student Award Luncheon: $15.00 each Number requested: ____________ Total: $___________ Awards Banquet: (Adult) $30.00 each Number requested: ____________ Total: $___________ Awards Banquet: (Child) $15.00 each Number requested: ____________ Total: $___________

*Child meals for the banquet can be a regular meal (beef and stuffed chicken breast OR chicken tenders,french fries and salad, please indicate which is preferred _____________________________________

TOTAL AMOUNT ENCLOSED $_________________

Mail form and payment to: West Virginia PTA Attn: Convention

PO Box 3557 Parkersburg, WV 26103

2016 West Virginia PTA Convention Registration Form

Convention Reminders

Did you remember…

Hotel Reservation (before March 14th for discounted hotel rate) T-Shirt Order Form (due by March 14th) Registration for each delegate (before March 31st for early discount rates) Checks payable to the West Virginia PTA Bring your PTA membership card to convention Pack casual clothing for workshops Pack Hawaiian clothes for luau and business casual clothing for awards

banquet Bring completed tax-exempt form when registering at Lakeview Door decorating items T-shirt contest entries Themed basket donation for Scholarship Auction

WHAT DO I WEAR AT THE CONVENTION? This is your convention. We want you to be comfortable. The dress for convention is casual for all workshops and general sessions. You may wear business casual or dressy clothing for the awards banquet but formal clothing is not needed. No jeans or shorts at the awards banquet, please.

WHY SHOULD YOUR PTA SEND DELEGATES TO THE CONVENTION? This is the place where your unit has the opportunity to affect the business of the state PTA, energize your leaders, obtain valuable PTA training, attend workshops from professional speakers on the latest topics in education, network with other PTA members from across the state and idea share!

WHAT HAPPENS AT CONVENTION? You will attend business sessions and vote on PTA matters. You will hear exciting speakers, attend informative workshops, and meet with fellow PTA members from across West Virginia. You will also meet and spend time talking with the West Virginia PTA Board of Managers and National PTA Representatives. Convention is also a time to reward all of your hard work and celebrate local unit awards, congratulate Reflections and Student Healthy Recipe winners and Scholarship winners during various events.

WHO SHOULD PAY FOR DELEGATES TO ATTEND? Convention expenses should have been included in your budget. Convention is an investment in the future leadership of individual PTAs. If you do not have a line item for convention, you may amend your budget. (Check your bylaws for details).

PTA SHOPConvention is a great time to buy a gift for your outgoing officers. What a nice remembrance of the year to give a pin or gift to outgoing/incoming officers, chairmen, principal and/or school staff. Show everyone you are proud to be involved in PTA.