Dear PTA Friends, Spring is the time of year when gentle breezes and the new growth of greenery are changing the landscape of Virginia and when PTAs are beginning an important time in the PTA calendar. PTAs have always been supportive of the arts and have always recognized the importance of reading in the life of a child. It is my hope that PTAs across the state will place emphasis upon these three special recognitions during the month of March. National Child Abuse Prevention Month is observed in April and is a time when PTAs should be involved in increasing awareness of child abuse within our state and across this nation. National PTA Earth Week is also observed in April and it is during this week that PTAs should focus attention on the environment while planting the seeds of change in the way people view the environment in their homes, schools and communities.
Spring is the time of year when local units determine their direction for the next year.
Elections are being held and installations of officers are being planned. I urge you to review your local unit bylaws as well as Robert s Rules of Order prior to the election of officers to ensure that the PTA election process is conducted correctly. This is a time when PTA leaders can reflect upon the past year and feel gratified that they have made a difference in the lives of children. An appropriate way to express appreciation is through the presentation of an Honorary Life Membership, President s Award or Distinguished Service Award. Through the presentation of these awards, you will be helping to support the education of deserving youth in Virginia, as income from these awards are applied toward the VA PTA Scholarship Fund.