As this incredible year draws to a close, I want to take a moment to thank each of you for your many contributions to the lives of children and families across the state. Thank you for the gift of you. Your dedication, your generosity, your spirit are what make the difference in the lives of ALL of OUR children.

This is especially evident when our members go above and beyond to support and celebrate the season with their school communities. Snowflake decorations, giving trees, musical programs, food pantry drives and classroom festivities – these are just a few of the ways our PTA members have shared comfort and joy throughout the holidays.

We love it when you share specific stories (and pictures) of how your PTA impacts your school community. Please continue to share these “Mission Moments” so that we can celebrate and replicate your success. There is no doubt that PTA volunteers have hearts that give all year round.

We also know that there are many who feel overwhelmed at this time of the year. We all need to take a few moments to slow down, unplug and unwind. Our PTA world will not come to an end if you take a break every now and then to go “off the grid” for a brief time. In fact, you will probably find that those close to you and those you serve enjoy the benefits of a happier, recharged you!

“I’ve learned that you can tell a lot about a person by the way (s)he handles these three things: a rainy day, lost luggage, and tangled Christmas tree lights.” ~ Maya Angelou

So please savor the holidays with your family and friends. We look forward to reconnecting with you in the New Year!

With best wishes,
Linda Kearschner
President | Florida PTA
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Legislative Conference: January 26-28
Do you want to know more about how to advocate for children? Have the events of this last year lit a fire in you to learn more about key issues and upcoming legislation? The Florida PTA Legislative Conference will take you from "What does it mean to advocate?" to "I’m ready to meet my legislator to discuss my concerns." Turn your passion into action! Visit our website to learn more and to register!

**Deadline to register is January 6, 2020**
Leadership Summit - March 2020
Make plans now to join us for our annual Leadership Summit. In 2020 we will explore food scarcity and the complex systems which must be navigated in order to secure social services in our communities.​ Registration opens January 2020 and is limited to the first 100 guests.
Welcome Martin County Council PTA!
Welcome our newest county council family​, Martin County Council PTA, chartered on December 14, 2019.
From L to R:  Jen Martinez, FL PTA President-Elect; Kelly Garner, VP of Advocacy; Andi McAvoy, President Martin County Council; Laurie Gaylord, Superintendent; Vanessa Palma, Treasurer; Kelly Brill, VP of Leadership; Jessica Summers, FL PTA VP for Regions & Councils; Dr. Teena White, FL PTA Region 7 Rep. Not Pictured: Amanda Healey, Secretary
Leadership Spotlight

This month we dim our Leadership Spotlight in honor of Past Florida PTA and Miami-Dade County Council PTA/PTSA President Marjorie "Marge" Okasako.

Marge was a friend, mentor and confidant to many. Her guidance and knowledge helped to shape the leadership journeys of scores of past and present PTA leaders. We salute you, Marge, for the indelible​ mark you forged across the state of Florida on behalf of child advocacy. Rest in power, dear friend. 
The Leadership Development Commission wishes you a joy-filled holiday season!
From Report To Results
Data is a powerful tool! Learning what student data is will help you advocate for change for your child, school, and district. Visit our website for more information!
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Awards
Reflections
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Save The Date!
Our annual Leadership Convention in July promises to be better than ever! Mark your calendars now so you don't miss out on this opportunity to learn and network: July 16-19, 2020.
 
Attending Leadership Convention is an opportunity for you to receive the most current training needed for you to be effective in your elected/appointed leadership role. It also provides you with an opportunity to interact with other leaders.

ShopPTA.com sells official PTA and PTSA logo apparel, membership items, awards, gifts and more. All products are offered through each of the participating State PTA organizations. Visit shoppta.com for all your PTA needs!