Another school year ends and we reflect upon the activities and opportunities of the past year. This year has been a year of change, innovation and new programs. 

We changed our approach to our presence in Tallahassee with our advocacy efforts being directed through “Region Weeks.” I believe that having PTA representatives visiting and speaking to legislators on children and family issues has made us a more effective child advocate group. Our legislative committee has done a wonderful job of enhancing our legislative efforts.

 We saw many new and different workshop offerings at our Leadership Conference. Our Leadership Certification Program continues to be well received by PTA leaders. Many of you have completed the program and have received your certification. It is extremely important that we have leaders that are properly trained. Our message should be consistent in all of our communications throughout the state.

Florida PTA held its first Emerging Minority Leaders Conference in Miami. Our National PTA President, Jan Harp-Domene joined me in participating in the conference. The conference was a huge success. PTA leaders from the Dade County area participated in the event and provided extremely positive feedback about the conference. In addition, National PTA President, Jan Harp-Domene led a day-long “Community Connections” Summit with a group of Dade County child services leaders.

 The weekend of April 11-12 saw Florida PTA hold our first Dad’s Summit. Over 60 men from across the state gathered at our state office in Orlando to discuss the importance of male involvement in the lives of children. The group was presented with information on the importance of being involved in the school, at home, and in legislative advocacy efforts. Many participants offered their personal examples of why they are involved in their child’s life and the consequences of not being involved.

This has been an exciting year for Florida PTA. We continue to work tirelessly to ensure that all children are afforded all the opportunities that they are deserving of. I thank each PTA member in the state for your continued commitment to Florida’s children. Through all of our combined efforts, we continue Building Bridges for Children.