I have to be honest with you. I don't think I've fully recovered from our Leadership Convention a few weeks ago.  It was literally one of the most enthusiastic, emotional, exciting and inspiring events I have attended in a long time.  Don't get me wrong.  We've had incredible conventions in the past, that's for sure.  But this one seemed more personal to me.  The weekend was electric with energy and creativity. Every plan came together and even exceeded my expectations.  We had deeply moving messages from our keynotes.  We had tears that flowed as we listened to the all-girl band sing and share their stories of foster care.  We had boxes and boxes of donations that you gave to the outreach programs that will help a child and a family in their time of crisis.   We had a record attendance and spirited debates.  We had awards and workshops.  We had talent night and flash mobs.  We had it all.

If you missed it, I hope you'll watch the videos, look at the pictures, talk to the delegates and make plans to come next year.  If you were there, I hope you are rested and still full of determination to use what you've learned and spread the flame.  I'd love to hear from you if you'd like to share a story of how the convention may have sparked a new passion, or rekindled a desire to advocate and take action.  Please feel free anytime to email exciting news or an event that has been created because of the inspiration you took back home with you.  The more we share the news, the further the flame will spread!

Before I close, let me do a couple of things.  First, let me thank everyone who played a role in making the convention a great success. Whether you taught a workshop, served as an usher, spoke during debate or helped a First Timer, thank you so much.  It takes everyone working collectively together to create such a beautiful event.  Next, let me wish you the very best beginning of this next school year.  Some of you will be continuing at the same school where everybody knows your name (Norm!) and some of you will be experiencing the thrill and nervousness of a new school.  I know we usually relate those feelings only to our children, but let's be honest, it happens to us, too.  We don't know if we'll be needed, or if we'll find a place to fit in.  We don't know if there's already a core group of "Do Everything's" who may not realize that they need you.  Do me a favor, would ya?  Find your spot.  Make a place.  Bring your "A game" and help them stretch their goals and ideas.  And if you happen to be in the same school and those new parents are coming in.....give them a spot.  Make a place for them.  Welcome them with open arms and hearts.  Show them that PTA is for ALL parents and ALL children.  Just as it takes everyone working together to pull off a spectacular event, it takes everyone who is willing to make a difference in the life of a child.

Happy Back To School!!

Cindy Gerhardt

Yikes, where did the summer go???  It feels like I was just saying we are wrapping up the school year and now I am wishing you all the best of luck as you kick off your school and PTA year! 

Thank you to those that were able to join us at the annual Florida PTA Leadership Convention.  We are extremely pleased with the convention and thankful for the feedback you provided.  While we always strive for the best, we know there is always room for improvement. With your feedback, we can learn and grow.  

If you were unable to join us, the PowerPoint presentations are still available in the app for your convenience. Also, look for information to come out from your county councils about their Fall Leadership trainings and other training opportunities.  It is through training and collaboration that we build sustainability for all of PTA. Remember, leadership development is all year round and we are here for you!

This month's Leadership topic will be "Leaders set the right example."

"Leadership is setting an example in the way you act each day, while focusing on the bigger picture. It's about setting the tone for your team and organization in the way you interact with your own staff, your business partners and your customers. As a leader, it is your responsibility to establish goals, innovate, motivate and trust. A passionate and compassionate leader can energize a company. Set an example of cooperation, trust and openness. Focus on solutions and positivity instead of finding faults and blame for actions."

 - Richard Kissane, president and CEO of Premium Franchise Brands, parent company of JAN-PRO and Maid Right Franchising

Learning and growing,

Jen Martinez

VP of Leadership

If we define diversity as the state of being varied then how do we define multiculturalism? When we look at modern society: race, gender, religion, sexual orientation, socioeconomic; there is so much diversity that we see in people. In a society where the focus is on diversity, acknowledging them is not enough and this is where multiculturalism walks in. In multiculturalism, these differences are promoted and highlighted; this is where inclusion takes place. People become aware of the unique advantages and disadvantages that each group has. This leads to a context where people are aware of the unequal distribution of power among groups of individuals. In multiculturalism, differences are accepted, which not only prevents discrimination but leads to a better understanding. 

As challenging as it may feel to have this conversation within your unit, we encourage you to strengthen your board by doing so. Conversations about multiculturalism must move beyond "check-a-box" on a board matrix because inclusion is not just about gender or skin deep. How do we move beyond conversations to meaningful action? Strength lies in differences, not in similarities.

      

Diversity is when you are invited to the dance.  Inclusion is when you are asked to dance. Equity is when you get to be the DJ!    #guerrillakindnessPTA

 

Suhailly Morales

Diversity & Inclusion Chair

It is never too early to think about winning!!  The Florida PTA Award applications will be live on our website on September 1st.  This will give local units access to the Awards applications early which helps with planning and executing the Awards process.

The deadline for applying for all Awards is May 1, 2018 but you are welcome to apply early while the event/program is fresh in your mind.   You are doing great work so why not tell others about your programs, events or special people!  We look forward to hearing from all of you this year!

Please contact the Awards Committee with questions at [email protected].

How well does your school make families feel welcome? 

National PTA School of Excellence  is a recognition program that supports and celebrates partnerships between PTAs and schools to enrich the educational experience and overall well-being for all students. What can you do now to begin the process of becoming a School of Excellence? 

The 2017-2018 National School of Excellence Program is now OPEN!   Enroll Now.

Build a team of PTA, school, and community leaders who will work together to set goals for school improvement. Your team can begin to look at current family engagement methods used by your school and discuss ways families can be further empowered to take part in education. 

What resources are available for help?

Once you apply for the National PTA School of Excellence program, National PTA will begin to provide you with ongoing support and resources to help your PTA achieve a stronger family-school partnership. Your Roadmap to Excellence will be tailored to fit the goals you've chosen to make improvements to your school.

Visit National PTA's website for more information!