As this school year comes to a close and my time as SCCPTA President sets with the sun, my last letter is written, to all our members, as “words of admiration.”  Though I have been on an exhilarating rollercoaster these last two years, filled with the vicissitudes we all experience in leadership, I could not have asked for more of a mission than the one I was given. I will always have immense pride in the PTA.

 

To stand before parents, encouraging advocacy for children, following guidelines set forth by one of the most noteworthy groups in America has been invigorating.  This association has one of the preeminent programs for parents, teachers, and students to follow and recognize how each of us can make a difference in the lives of children. I encourage each of you to stay involved by following the standards that have been tried and true to the PTA for many, many years. I challenge you to jump on board, stay involved, and stimulate those around you to care about the standards of home and education for our children.

 

Your PTA can unite with other advocates in our county to give a strong message about the issues that affect our children and families.  Together you can make issues count by bringing together parents, school officials, and community leaders.  Write in to local newspapers and tell them how PTA teaches, inspires, and strengthens your school and the parents of your community.  Awaken the public to advocacy efforts and watch new and exciting action for children result.

 

Another area I have taken pleasure in has been the volunteering component of PTA.  I am a parent first, a volunteer and then a member of PTA. As a volunteer it has been important to be treated with respect and consideration, no one wants to be disregarded or denied a task in volunteering just because.  It is the responsibility of PTA leaders to integrate all volunteers, thanking them every chance they have.  I encourage you to make your volunteers feel they have made a difference.

 

At the end of the day, I have been blessed to have generated new friendships and associations I otherwise would have never known or have had the opportunity to make. These are people I will know the rest of my days because they have made a difference in my life.  We have a collective bond working for children and found a universal bond of laughter.  Together we will continue to make a difference for every child.

 

Thanks to the wonderful SCCPTA board members that have been there with me these past two years.  For all the meetings and time you have given to our projects, I will always be grateful for your support and guidance.  You made a difference.  God bless you all.

 

Sincerely,

Kathy Foulk

SCCPTA President

2006-2008