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KENTUCKY PTA BULLETIN Visit us at www.kypta.org and Join us on Facebook November 2011 1 Who We Are PTA Vision Making every child's potential a reality. PTA Mission PTA is A powerful voice for all children, A relevant resource for families and communities, and A strong advocate for the education and well-being of every child. PTA Values Collaboration: We work in partnership with a wide array of individuals and organizations to accomplish our agreed- upon goals. Commitment: We are dedicated to promoting children’s health, well-being, and educational success through strong parent, family, and community involvement. Accountability: We acknowledge our obligations. We deliver on our promises. Respect: We value our colleagues and ourselves. We expect the same high quality of effort and thought from ourselves as we do from others. Inclusivity: We invite the stranger and welcome the newcomer. We value and seek input from as wide a spectrum of viewpoints and experiences as possible. Integrity: We act consistently with our beliefs. When we err, we acknowledge the mistake and seek to make amends. PTA Purposes: Historical goals of PTA To promote the welfare of the children and youth in home, school, community, and place of worship. To raise the standards of home life. To secure adequate laws for the care and protection of children and youth. To bring into closer relation the home and the school, that parents and teachers may cooperate intelligently in the education of children and youth. To develop between educators and the general public such united efforts as will secure for all children and youth the highest advantages in physical, mental, social, and spiritual education. Kentucky Teachers of the Year Kimberly Shearer, an English teacher at Boone County High School, has been named Kentucky Teacher of the Year. The announcement was made today at a ceremony held at the Capitol Rotunda in Frankfort by Ashland Inc. and the Kentucky Department of Education. Governor Steve Beshear; Secretary of the Education and Workforce Development Cabinet Joseph Meyer; Commissioner of Education Terry Holliday; and Ashland Chairman and CEO Jim O’Brien were on hand to make the presentation. Elizabeth Ann Fuller, a 3rd-grade reading and writing demonstration site teacher at J.B. Atkinson Academy in Jefferson County, was named 2012 Elementary School Teacher of the Year. Jenni Lou Jackson, an 8th-grade language arts teacher at Corbin Middle School in the Corbin Independent school district, was named 2012 Middle School Teacher of the Year. The three joined 21 other teachers from across the state honored with 2012 Ashland Inc. Teacher Achievement Awards. Fuller and Jackson received $3,000 each and a customized, art-glass vase from Ashland Inc., while Shearer received $10,000 and a commemorative crystal-glass bowl. In addition, the Department of Education will provide a sabbatical or suitable alternative for Shearer, who also will represent the state in the 2012 National Teacher of the Year competition. The remaining 21 winners each received $500 cash awards. All 24 teachers received framed certificates and were further recognized at a luncheon following the ceremony. Pictured Left to Right: Elizabeth Ann Fuller J. B. Atkinson Elementary School Kimberly Shearer Boone County High School Jenni Lou Jackson Corbin Middle School Our Children...Our Future Kentucky PTA Bulletin Volume LXXXVIV Number 2 November, 2011 Our Children...Our Future Kentucky PTA Bulletin Volume LXXXVIV Number 2 November, 2011 everychild.onevoice.

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Page 1: Our ChildrenOur Future - WordPress.comNov 11, 2011  · Frankfort, Kentucky 40602-0654 2011-2013 Executive Committee President - Teri Gale, Fairdale President-Elect -Eddie Squires,

KENTUCKY PTA BULLETIN Visit us at www.kypta.org and Join us on Facebook November 2011 1

Who We Are

PTA Vision Making every child's potential a reality. PTA Mission PTA is A powerful voice for all children, A relevant resource for families and

communities, and A strong advocate for the education and

well-being of every child. PTA Values Collaboration: We work in partnership

with a wide array of individuals and organizations to accomplish our agreed-upon goals.

Commitment: We are dedicated to promoting children’s health, well-being, and educational success through strong parent, family, and community involvement.

Accountability: We acknowledge our obligations. We deliver on our promises.

Respect: We value our colleagues and ourselves. We expect the same high quality of effort and thought from ourselves as we do from others.

Inclusivity: We invite the stranger and welcome the newcomer. We value and seek input from as wide a spectrum of viewpoints and experiences as possible.

Integrity: We act consistently with our beliefs. When we err, we acknowledge the mistake and seek to make amends.

PTA Purposes: Historical goals of PTA To promote the welfare of the children

and youth in home, school, community, and place of worship.

To raise the standards of home life. To secure adequate laws for the care and

protection of children and youth. To bring into closer relation the home and

the school, that parents and teachers may cooperate intelligently in the education of children and youth.

To develop between educators and the general public such united efforts as will secure for all children and youth the highest advantages in physical, mental, social, and spiritual education.

Kentucky Teachers of the Year

Kimberly Shearer, an English teacher at Boone County

High School, has been named Kentucky Teacher of the

Year. The announcement was made today at a ceremony

held at the Capitol Rotunda in Frankfort by Ashland Inc.

and the Kentucky Department of Education. Governor Steve

Beshear; Secretary of the Education and Workforce

Development Cabinet Joseph Meyer; Commissioner of

Education Terry Holliday; and Ashland Chairman and CEO

Jim O’Brien were on hand to make the presentation.

Elizabeth Ann Fuller, a 3rd-grade reading and writing

demonstration site teacher at J.B. Atkinson Academy in

Jefferson County, was named 2012 Elementary School

Teacher of the Year.

Jenni Lou Jackson, an 8th-grade language arts teacher at

Corbin Middle School in the Corbin Independent school

district, was named 2012 Middle School Teacher of the

Year.

The three joined 21 other teachers from across the

state honored with 2012 Ashland Inc. Teacher

Achievement Awards. Fuller and Jackson received $3,000

each and a customized, art-glass vase from Ashland Inc.,

while Shearer received $10,000 and a commemorative

crystal-glass bowl. In addition, the Department of

Education will provide a sabbatical or suitable alternative

for Shearer, who also will represent the state in the 2012

National Teacher of the Year competition. The remaining

21 winners each received $500 cash awards. All 24

teachers received framed certificates and were further

recognized at a luncheon following the ceremony.

Pictured Left to Right:

Elizabeth Ann Fuller

J. B. Atkinson Elementary School

Kimberly Shearer

Boone County High School

Jenni Lou Jackson

Corbin Middle School

Our Children...Our Future Kentucky PTA Bulletin

Volume LXXXVIV Number 2 November, 2011

Our Children...Our Future Kentucky PTA Bulletin

Volume LXXXVIV Number 2 November, 2011

everychild.onevoice.

Page 2: Our ChildrenOur Future - WordPress.comNov 11, 2011  · Frankfort, Kentucky 40602-0654 2011-2013 Executive Committee President - Teri Gale, Fairdale President-Elect -Eddie Squires,

KENTUCKY PTA BULLETIN Visit us at www.kypta.org and Join us on Facebook November 2011 2

Official publication of the Kentucky Congress of Parents

and Teachers, Inc. (Kentucky PTA), published eight times

a year. 2011 Kentucky PTA. Subscriptions are sent

prepaid by unit dues to all local unit presidents.

Whenever PTA is used in this publication, it also refers to

PTSA. PTA is a registered trademark of National PTA.

Permission to reprint is granted to PTAs affiliated with

the National and Kentucky PTA.

Kentucky PTA Office

P.O. Box 654 (148 Consumer Lane)

Frankfort, Kentucky 40602-0654

2011-2013

Executive Committee

President - Teri Gale, Fairdale

President-Elect -Eddie Squires, Louisville

Vice President for Leadership/Outreach Services - Vacant

Vice President for Organization Services - Rose Babiak, Louisville

Vice President for Programs - Chris Tolliver, Madisonville

Secretary - Susan Gardner, Louisville

Treasurer - Paula Wolf, Louisville

Legislative Commissioner - Sharon Whitworth, Taylorsville

Teri Gale President, Kentucky PTA

PTA comprises nearly 6 million parents and other concerned adults devoted to the educational success of children and the promotion of parent

involvement in schools. PTA is a registered 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization that prides itself on being a powerful voice for children, a relevant

resource for parents, and a strong advocate for public education. Membership in PTA is open to anyone who is concerned with the education, health,

and welfare of children and youth.

From the desk of the President:

MAKING STRIDES FOR

STUDENT SUCCESS

As President of Kentucky PTA, I have had the

opportunity to attend meetings and conferences

that dealt with educational and social issues. I am

on committees that are developing new strategies

to promote a better education for Kentucky

children by thinking outside of the box. In my short three

months of this presidency, I have learned that the parents and

leaders of Kentucky want the best education for the children of

Kentucky and are willing to work hard to achieve this. In my

travels I have seen first hand that PTA is needed now more

than ever. I am reminded of a quote by Helen Keller “Alone we

can do so little, but together we can do so much”.

As education changes so does parent involvement. The

definition of parent and family engagement in our schools has

changed. Parents are no longer only volunteers and fund

raisers, they are now partners and advocates in their child’s

education. With the new Common Core State Standards

(Kentucky Core Academic Standards, KCAS), learning does not

end in the classroom. Children need help and support at home

in order to succeed. PTA is an integral part in parents learning

how to have meaningful, two-way communication with school

officials, teacher and their child.

I attended some really fantastic events in October like the

16th Districts PTA 5K walk/run. It was so awesome to see all

of the children with their parents and dogs walking, talking and

having fun. The 15th District's Back To School Day with all of

the PTA parents eager to learn how to be a part of their child’s

education. I am looking forward to visiting other areas of the

Commonwealth to see what other special things are going on

with Kentucky PTAs.

I get asked daily why I am still involved in PTA since my two

boys are well over school age. My answer to that is, not every

child has a parent that has the time or knowledge about being

involved in their child’s education. This is not saying they are a

bad parent but maybe just not informed. When I ask parents

that are not involved, why, many say they do not know how to

get involved or they were never asked. Many parents are never

encouraged to visit the school except when something is

wrong. It is our job as PTA leaders to make every parent feel

welcomed. I challenge each of you to make an extra effort to

reach out to your parents. Who knows, you may find your next

fall carnival chairperson, cookie lady or your next board

member.

If your PTA is having a special event and would like for me to

attend please give me a call. I can work membership tables,

take the pie in the face or just be there for support. You may

contact me at [email protected]. I look forward to

hearing from you. I truly believe that the PTA’s in Kentucky are

the best.

Teri Kentucky PTA President, 2011 - 2013

Together - Making Strides for Student Success

c

everychild.onevoice.

Page 3: Our ChildrenOur Future - WordPress.comNov 11, 2011  · Frankfort, Kentucky 40602-0654 2011-2013 Executive Committee President - Teri Gale, Fairdale President-Elect -Eddie Squires,

KENTUCKY PTA BULLETIN Visit us at www.kypta.org and Join us on Facebook November 2011 3

I and several other

educators recently had the

honor of joining President

Barack Obama and U.S.

Education Secretary Arne

Duncan at the White House

when they announced

states would be allowed

more flexibility under the

federal No Child Left

Behind (NCLB) Act.

Under the plan, states

can get relief from NCLB

provisions in exchange for

serious state-led efforts to

close achievement gaps,

promote rigorous

accountability and ensure that all students are on track to

graduate college- and career-ready.

It is my hope that Kentucky will be among the first this

winter to receive a waiver granting this flexibility.

NCLB had the right vision. It forced us to raise

achievement and expectations for all children. However, as

President Obama noted, its implementation often left

teachers forced to teach to the test, reduced teaching time

for subjects like social studies and science, and, in some

states, resulted in lower standards.

I believe it also limited innovation and flexibility in

preparing Kentucky’s students for college and careers. I

see the waiver as supporting local and state education

reform efforts that have been underway since the General

Assembly passed Senate Bill 1 in 2009.

The presidents announcement has raised concerns for

some, who question whether giving states leeway on

proficiency standards is good for children.

I believe it is a good decision; and I also do not believe

it is an either-or proposition. The waiver will allow us to do

more, especially when it comes to preparing Kentucky’s

children to go to college or enter the workforce. At the

same time, we can keep the promise of NCLB — focus on

proficiency and closing achievement gaps.

States have shown their commitment to NCLB’s values

over the past several years through their collaboration and

development of Common Core State Standards and the

principles for next-generation accountability models to

replace NCLB. This work includes a strong focus on low-

achieving schools and teacher/leader effectiveness.

Kentucky and other states also are developing

accountability models that include these crucial indicators,

along with the development of new assessments and

adoption of college- and career-ready measures.

It’s been nearly ten years since NCLB became law, and

from the data collected, we’ve learned much about what

our students need to succeed at each grade level. With this

new flexibility opportunity, we can now move forward to

put a new educational system in place nationwide - one

that is aligned to college and career readiness for all

students as the ultimate outcome.

Our focus in Kentucky has changed from minimum

competency in mathematics and reading to a focus on

college and career readiness for ALL Kentucky children.

Our goal is to increase the percentage of college/career-

ready graduates from 34 percent to 67 percent by 2015.

That focus was only strengthened this past September

with the release of 2010-11 college readiness data, which

showed that, on average, 62 percent of public high school

students statewide are not ready for college or careers.

I know this work will not be easy. But it also will not be

solitary; state, district, school and community/business

members will need to work together if we are to make

progress. As President Obama noted, it also will take

another important group — parents — to instill a

commitment and love of learning in their children.

I would add that it also will require all of us to do

something that is often difficult when faced with daily

tasks and pressures: think beyond what is happening in a

classroom today, this week or even this one academic year.

For every child, we need to let our work be driven by a two

questions: Where will this child be after his or her high

school graduation? And what knowledge and skills will this

child need to get there?

Knowing the answers will help

guide our work with each and

every student.

Knowing the answers will

mean the difference between a

student having a successful

school year or a successful future.

Terry Holliday

Kentucky Education Commissioner

NCLB Waiver Step Towards Raising

Standards For All Students

Page 4: Our ChildrenOur Future - WordPress.comNov 11, 2011  · Frankfort, Kentucky 40602-0654 2011-2013 Executive Committee President - Teri Gale, Fairdale President-Elect -Eddie Squires,

KENTUCKY PTA BULLETIN Visit us at www.kypta.org and Join us on Facebook November 2011 4

Coming Up....

Featuring helpful information, deadlines and important dates.

Membership deadlines approaching:

December 15 - Strive for Five - 5% increase over

last year's total membership.

Kentucky Book Fair offers Free

Admission for Students

The 30th Annual Kentucky Book Fair will host a

Children's Day on Friday, November 11 from 9 a.m.

to 2 p.m. Admission is free for students. The Book

Fair will be held at the Frankfort

Convention Center. Authors

such as Leigh Anne Florence,

Loretta Ellsworth, Marcia Jones,

Michael Capek, Marlis Day,

Alison Hard and many more will be on hand. See

information at www.kybookfair.com.

FREE ILP TRAINING

The Kentucky Higher Education Assistance Authority

(KHEAA) and Career Cruising will host free Individual

Learning Plan (ILP) training continuing in November.

A webinar focusing on student use of the ILP will be

held:

Monday, Nov. 21, 3 to 4 p.m. ET.

For more information, contact Pennie Little toll-free

at (800) 928-8926, ext. 67495. KHEAA is the state

agency that administers KEES, need-based grants

and other programs to help students pay their

higher education expenses.

Self Esteem Award

Deadline February 15

Students preschool through 12th grade submit an

essay, story, or poem. There are four categories.

For Primary through 8 the theme is “What Makes Me

Feel Special”. For 9-12 the theme is “Who I Am

Inside”. The entry must be the original work of the

student and express ideas and feelings about

people, places, and experiences that make the

author feel special. Winners are recognized at

Student Recognition in the spring. The forms are

available in the Leaders’ Notebook, Part 1-Forms on

pages 18-19.

National PTA’s

Take Your Family to School Week

February 12-18, 2012

Apply now for up to $1,000 for your PTA!

During Take Your Family to School Week, PTAs conduct

activities that expand and enhance family engagement in

schools across the country. National PTA offers grants of

up to $1,000 for PTAs to plan activities during this week

that build positive parent-teacher relationships.

Applications are being reviewed. Your PTA could be a

winner! For more information please visit

www.PTA.org/familytoschool.

--Sherri Wilson, National PTA Senior Manager Of

Family Engagement

PTA Take Your Family to School Week is sponsored by

the AXA Foundation, the philanthropic arm of AXA

Equitable.

Unity Day is November 21, 2011

Make sure your PTA/PTSA celebrates this year!

The purpose of Unity Day is to celebrate the differ-

ences that make us unique and contribute to what

unites us. Unity Day is the Monday of Thanksgiving

week and all PTAs/PTSAs are urged to work with

their school and community to promote this special

day.

"Christa McAuliffe"

Rising Star Award -

Deadline February 15

"What are we doing here?

Reaching for the stars."

This award, in honor of Challenger teacher -

astronaut Christa McAuliffe, is given by Kentucky

PTA to students who have worked to improve

challenges at school or home and have improved

grades, attendance, attitude, character and/or

self-esteem. Your PTA/PTSA can honor a student

who has accomplished these achievements by

nominating him or her for this award.

- Parent Involvement Month -

November

Page 5: Our ChildrenOur Future - WordPress.comNov 11, 2011  · Frankfort, Kentucky 40602-0654 2011-2013 Executive Committee President - Teri Gale, Fairdale President-Elect -Eddie Squires,

KENTUCKY PTA BULLETIN Visit us at www.kypta.org and Join us on Facebook November 2011 5

Membership, Membership,

Membership!

We currently have 58,552 members. Many schools

already have as many or more members than last year!

The schools that had as many or more members by

September 15th were eligible for the Early bird

drawing. Congratulations to the following schools that

were part of the drawing: District 7: Rineyville El;

District 12: Hearn El, Spencer Co High; District 13:

Goshen El, Harmony El, North Oldham High; District

14: Beechgrove El, Campbell County High, Kenton El,

Walton-Verona El, Walton-Verona Middle; District 15:

Coleridge-Taylor El, Gilmore El, Our Angels Child Care,

Slaughter El, Southern High, Stopher El, Westport

Middle; District 16: Beaumont Middle, Breckinridge El,

Henry Clay High, James Lane Allen, Jessie M. Clark

Middle, Lafayette High, Lansdowne El, Liberty El,

Sandersville El, Squires El, Stonewall El, Tates Creek

Middle; District 18: Bourbon County Middle; District

20: Shopville EL; District 27: South Maggofin El. THE

WINNER IS….Bourbon County Middle in District 18!!!

In case you did not know...

If you already have as many or more members than

last year you will need to order more Membership

cards. You can do this by sending in a request when

you mail a dues payment, or by calling or emailing the

Kentucky PTA office:

(502-226-6607/[email protected]).

If you have any questions about how to fill out a

membership card, need a membership card template

or payment forms, please go to Membership Cards 101

on the Kentucky PTA website http://www.kypta.org/

site/members_local/membership-cards-101.html.

Thank you and keep up the good work!

Jennifer Jackson

Membership Commissioner

Discounts For Members

Do you like to save money? No need to clip

coupons, because all you need is your PTA

Membership card. The PTA has negotiated

special discounts with businesses for PTA

members. Anything from renting a car to

wireless service discounts (and everything in between).

So check out the discounts on the National website -

link below. Also, be sure to mention this benefit when

recruiting new members!

http://www.pta.org/member_benefit_providers.asp

November Treasurer

To-Do List

File IRS 990 by November 15, 2011 All units are

now required to file regardless of income level.

PTAs whose annual gross receipts are $50,000.00

or less for the PTA year ending June 30, 2011 must

file the 990-N or e-Postcard. Those with gross

receipts greater than $50,000.00 but less than

$200,000.00 must file the 990 EZ.

To file electronically go to

http://epostcard.form990.org

Be sure you know your EIN and user name and

password if your PTA has filed before.

Check with your membership chair for any dues

that are outstanding for National, State or District

PTA dues.

Pay for Chairmen and Officers Bonding Insurance.

If you have not received a bill then contact

Underwriters Safety and Claims at 502-489-6245.

Prepare an amended budget for the next General

PTA meeting if necessary.

If your PTA has received a letter from the IRS that states

that your PTA has had its Tax Exempt Status revoked,

please contact the state office immediately. If you

receive any correspondence from the IRS do not ignore

it. Contact us so we can assist you.

If you have any questions please contact me.

Paula Wolf, Treasurer

[email protected] / 502-767-3769 (cell)

Page 6: Our ChildrenOur Future - WordPress.comNov 11, 2011  · Frankfort, Kentucky 40602-0654 2011-2013 Executive Committee President - Teri Gale, Fairdale President-Elect -Eddie Squires,

KENTUCKY PTA BULLETIN Visit us at www.kypta.org and Join us on Facebook November 2011 6

Taylor Mill Elementary Gets

Basketball Court

-Covington, KY

By Melissa Stewart - [email protected]

Taylor Mill Elementary students will soon be playing

on their own basketball court at the school playground

thanks to the efforts of the PTA.

“The PTA wanted to install a piece of equipment to

the playground that kids of all ages would enjoy and

something that would last for years,” said PTA

President Andrea Sipple. “Also, some of the current

playground equipment the kids outgrow or become

disinterested by the time they get to the intermediate

grades of elementary school.”

The group funded the project with money from their

playground fund that was started in the 1990s. Most

of the money raised comes from

their Market Day fundraiser. Market

Day is a food order program where

families can order restaurant-

quality food on a monthly basis.

“We are just lucky to have the

resources to be able to add another

piece of equipment for the kids,”

Sipple said. “We have the best PTA

and a great group of supporters.

We couldn’t accomplish all we do

without our dedicated volunteers

that care so much about our kids

and our school.”

Congratulations to Stonewall

Elementary PTA!

-Lexington, KY

Stonewall PTA in Lexington won a $10,000 grant

for Healthy Lifestyles!!!! On November 3rd, Stonewall

Elementary PTA hosted their first-ever Health and

Wellness Night. The evening included fun activities,

prizes, healthy snack ideas/samples, Zumba class for

kids and fun ideas how to be active with your family.

The first 70 participants received a free stainless

steel water bottle. Many businesses and groups

contributed to this event.

--Jennifer Crockett, Stonewall Elementary PTA

Kenton Elementary

Encourages Healthy

Lifestyles

-Independence, KY

In the 2011-2012 school year,

Kenton Elementary in Independence, KY is working on

encouraging healthy lifestyles.

Their first general PTA meeting incorporated their

theme by having a family-friendly Zumba lesson

following the business portion of the meeting. Marcella

Kinser, Zumba instructor, helped the crowd work up a

sweat and work some fun into their evening!

They have adopted a program called “Fitness

Fridays”. Typically the last Friday of the month, all

students and their families and Kenton staff are

encouraged to attend the program. The monthly

activities range from fitness stations, to instructors

who lead everyone in programs like Zumba, taekwondo

and hip-hop!! By using a variety of fun fitness tools,

they are creating an environment in which kids want to

get moving and get fit. By inviting all families and

Kenton adults to join the fun, we are encouraging

adults to model this good behavior for our kids!

Chiquita Brands International, Inc. is providing all

participants with a banana snack after the programs.

--Sara Gadzala, Kenton Elementary PTA President

East Hardin Middle School's PTSA hosted its first NFL

Kickoff Dance on Friday, Sept. 9, 2011. This event was to

celebrate the start of the NFL season. Children were

encouraged to wear their favorite NFL clothes. Pizza and

drinks were served at the party by PTSA members and

teachers who volunteered their time. DJ John Frank

provided the dance music for the students to dance away

the late afternoon. President Martha West is hoping that

this will be a yearly event for the school, especially after

having the largest turn out of any school dance yet! Are

you ready for some football? EHMS is ready!!

East

Hardin

Middle

School

-Glendale, KY

What's Happening Around Kentucky?

Page 7: Our ChildrenOur Future - WordPress.comNov 11, 2011  · Frankfort, Kentucky 40602-0654 2011-2013 Executive Committee President - Teri Gale, Fairdale President-Elect -Eddie Squires,

KENTUCKY PTA BULLETIN Visit us at www.kypta.org and Join us on Facebook November 2011 7

What's Happening Around Kentucky?

Tates Creek Elementary

Family Fun Night

-Lexington, KY

We've started Family Fun Nights

this year at our school. Each of the

four nights (2 in the fall and 2 in

the spring) have a different theme.

The school P.E. teacher, Mr. Hill, is working with the

PTA to host these events. On each of these nights,

the gym is open with stations for families to do

together related to the themes. We also are

providing healthy snacks and water. The goal is to

get students and their families actively moving and

engaged with one another, to build a sense of

community and to provide information about

making healthy lifestyle choices. We had over 100

attendees at our first event!

In October we will be hosting an Art Night in

conjunction with the Book Fair Night. We will have

five stations at which students can make pieces of

art to take home. We have enlisted the help of the

Living Arts & Science Center, which will take care of

two of the stations--picture frames and pinch pots.

The other three stations will be manned by the PTA--

paper quilt squares, paintings, and ink stamped

cards. It's a great way for students to have more

opportunities to explore the arts.

--Ann Combs, Tates Creek Elementary

Kentucky's Delegate for Mom

Congress Appears on NBC News

Brenda Martin, Kentucky's delegate for Mom

Congress, recently appeared on NBC News on a

segment titled "Education Nation". She participated

in a discussion with other school advocates and

professionals on the shortfalls of our schools and

the power of parent involvement. You can read

Brenda's blog on educationnation.com.

Congratulations to Rosa Parks

Elementary!

Rosa Parks Elementary School won a $10,000

Computer Lab Grant from Rack Room Shoes!!!

Stephens Elementary Sells

Lots of "Mumkins"

-Burlington, KY

In the month of

September Stephens

Elementary sold mumkins

as a fundraiser. After

selling 1074 mumkins, you

can drive through many of

the neighborhoods and see Mumkins sitting on the

porches. The top sellers were able to get into the money

machine and take home some cash.

--Tina Wert, Stephens Elementary PTA President

Western Elementary Becomes PTA

-Georgetown, KY

In our last newsletter, we

proudly announced that “We are a

PTA”. As of Tuesday, September

20th, we officially became Western

Elementary PTA, Inc., linking us to

the state and national PTAs and

making us part of the largest

volunteer child advocacy association in the nation! We

are excited to be partnered with an organization that

clearly puts children first, and puts emphasis on

bringing together parents, teachers, administrators,

and community in order to make every child's potential

a reality. As a result, Western Elementary, PTA, Inc.

seeks to establish, maintain and uphold commitment,

accountability, respect, and integrity throughout the

school community for the benefit of all children.

With more parent, teacher, administration, and

community involvement, we shall gain strength and

effectiveness.

--Diana M. Shay, PTA VP of Membership

everychild.onevoice.

Page 8: Our ChildrenOur Future - WordPress.comNov 11, 2011  · Frankfort, Kentucky 40602-0654 2011-2013 Executive Committee President - Teri Gale, Fairdale President-Elect -Eddie Squires,

KENTUCKY PTA BULLETIN Visit us at www.kypta.org and Join us on Facebook November 2011 8

WHAT IS ADVOCACY?

Anyone who speaks for another is an advocate. PTA is an advocate for children and their families on

a wide variety of child-related issues in the areas of education, health and well being, and parent

involvement. The purpose of advocacy is to communicate to decision makers to inform, educate,

persuade or increase the level of awareness about an issue. Decision makers include elected and

appointed officials, legislative bodies, school boards, SBDM Councils, and judges.

Every PTA member can be an effective advocate.

Keep informed about the issues.

Choose issues important to your membership.

Build support of members for your cause.

Learn to work together.

Recruit new members.

Take risks.

Retain your commitment to change.

How are PTA positions developed?

All PTA positions are derived from voted positions. The Kentucky PTA Legislative Platform and resolutions

are approved each year by delegates at the state convention. All legislation supported or opposed by the

Kentucky PTA is based on the voted positions of the Kentucky and National PTA.

PTA: A Voice for All Children and Youth

Children can’t vote. Lawmakers, whether they serve in state legislatures or the U.S. Congress, listen to

voting blocks. Because children can not vote, they are therefore not heard, PTAs across the country exist as

their voice. Whether they are trying to ensure children are immunized against disease, have access to a

quality education, or protected against school violence, PTA members make themselves heard -

everychild.onevoice.

Add your name to the KY PTA legislative contact list by contacting Sharon Whitworth, Kentucky PTA

legislative commissioner at [email protected] or our KY PTA office at

[email protected].

REFLECTIONS: "Diversity Means..."

Many schools cannot afford to offer arts programming to their students - but

not PTA schools! Right now, local PTAs are gearing up for another year of

Reflections--PTA’s popular arts recognition program that attracts many participants

around the state. This year’s Reflections program provides students in preschool

through grade 12 with a fun, creative way to express their feelings about the 2011-

2012 theme “Diversity Means…” Students work in six arts categories - dance

choreography, film production, literature, musical composition, photography, and

visual arts - and can compete for awards at the local, district, and state levels. The

best of the best go on to compete for National Reflections awards, including cash prizes.

Participation in PTA’s Reflections Program helps students develop their creativity and individuality. It

also gives them an edge in getting into the college of their choice. Research from the College Board

has shown that students who are involved in the arts score 58 points higher on the verbal portion and

38 points higher on the math portion of the SAT.

Contact your District President and/or Kentucky PTA to learn more about Reflections and to find out

how you can submit entries.

Page 9: Our ChildrenOur Future - WordPress.comNov 11, 2011  · Frankfort, Kentucky 40602-0654 2011-2013 Executive Committee President - Teri Gale, Fairdale President-Elect -Eddie Squires,

KENTUCKY PTA BULLETIN Visit us at www.kypta.org and Join us on Facebook November 2011 9

2011 National PTA Healthy Lifestyles Grant

Recipients Announced

from Betsy Landers, National PTA President

It is my pleasure to announce that 10 PTAs have been selected to receive a 2011 National

PTA Healthy Lifestyles Grant! Each PTA will receive up to $1,000 that they can use towards

implementing programs that increase physical activity and improve nutrition for approximately 11,000 students

across the nation.

This year, the selected PTAs will implement programs that include: “Walk the Block,” a monthly family walking

challenge; the “Be Smart, Eat Smart” campaign that will encourage children to eat healthier foods; and a farm to

school program, among others. The proposals for the Healthy Lifestyles Grants displayed large amounts of

creativity, drive, and ambition. It is truly amazing to witness the dedication and commitment that our PTAs have

towards the goal of creating a healthy lifestyle for their schools and communities.

2011 PTA HEALTHY LIFESTYLES GRANT RECIPIENTS

Classical Center at Vial PTA Cynthia Heights Elementary School PTA

Garland, Texas Evansville, Indiana

Cleveland Heights/University Heights Council of PTAs J. Allen Axson PTA

University Heights, Ohio Jacksonville, Florida

Clinton Elementary PTA Kraft Elementary PTA

Clinton, Utah Hampton, Virginia

Coronado Elementary PTA South Side Elementary PTA

Albuquerque, New Mexico Harrisburg, Pennsylvania

Crested Butte Community School PTSA Stonewall PTA

Crested Butte, Colorado Lexington, Kentucky

To find out more about each grant recipient, visit PTA.org/healthylifestyles.

HOW DO I GET MY PTA'S TAX-EXEMPT STATUS REINSTATED IF IT

WAS AUTOMATICALLY REVOKED?

National PTA has made it easy to file for reinstatement with step-by-step instructions and materials

that do some of the work posted online at PTA.org/taxhelp. You will need your member ID number

and password to log on.

1. File Form 1023. Use the template provided on the National PTA website and follow the

directions carefully.

2. Pay the appropriate user fee ($100 for small organizations).

3. Attach the transitional relief letter, found on the National PTA website asking for retroactive

reinstatement.

List of organizations whose tax-exempt status has been revoked:

IRS.gov/charities/charitable/article/0,,id=141466,00.html

Application for tax exemption:

IRS.gov/charities/article/0,,id=221591,00.html

Application for retroactive reinstatement:

IRS.gov/charities/article/0,,id=221593,00.html

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Page 10: Our ChildrenOur Future - WordPress.comNov 11, 2011  · Frankfort, Kentucky 40602-0654 2011-2013 Executive Committee President - Teri Gale, Fairdale President-Elect -Eddie Squires,

KENTUCKY PTA BULLETIN Visit us at www.kypta.org and Join us on Facebook November 2011 10

Kentucky Congress of Parents

and Teachers, Inc.

P.O. Box 654

Frankfort, Kentucky 40602-0654

Return Service Requested

Nonprofit Organization

U.S. Postage

PAID

Frankfort, Kentucky

Permit No. 316

If you are no longer PTA/PTSA president, please forward this and all mailings IMMEDIATELY to your successor and send the current

president's name and address to the Kentucky PTA Office.

Raising Awareness For

Family/School/Community Engagement

Raising awareness involves continually educating school

stakeholders about the importance of family and community

involvement in children’s academic experience, and the vital roles

they can play.

Stakeholders include parents, extended family members, other

caretakers, teachers, school staff and administrators, community

leaders, local businesses and organizations, and more.

You can present the message about involvement not only to regular

PTA and school audiences but also to local service and social clubs,

town meetings, church groups, major area employers, etc. Tell them

how they can help improve your school, raise student achievement,

and benefit themselves and the rest of the community. By reaching

out to these groups and individuals, you’ll build trust and ownership,

gaining support for the school, the students, your PTA, and the work

ahead.

Please visit the National PTA website pta.org for resources and links

on building successful partnerships and tools for increasing

involvement.

CALENDAR OF

EVENTS

NOVEMBER - Parent Involvement Month NOV. 3-4 - Kentucky Advocacy Training NOV. 15 - 990 Filing or Forms due to IRS NOV. 21 - Unity Day DECEMBER 1 - World AIDS Day

> 2012 < FEBRUARY 15 - Scholarship Deadlines FEB. 15 - Self Esteem Award Applications Due FEB. 15 - Christa McAuliffe Rising Star Applications Due MARCH 15 - Applications for Awards Due MAR. 15 - Deadline for dues for each member enrolled (not previously submitted). MAR. 15 - Deadlines for District Presidents Self Esteem - Winning Entries MAY 15 - Grant Applications for Convention/ Leadership Due JULY 19, 20, 21 - Kentucky PTA Convention, Louisville, KY

everychild.onevoice.

everychild.onevoice.