Happy August to everyone! As my kids say on the first day of every month, “Rabbity-rabbit!” (I have no idea where that came from…)

Your TMTA officers enjoyed a very productive – and busy! – week at our annual retreat from July 18-22. We met in Fort Worth to reflect on the past year, imagine ways to improve our events and processes (remember “access” and “adaptability” from the last newsletter?), and plan our budget for 2022-23. I’m happy to report that your leadership team for the next two years has a collaborative and joyful spirit, as well as a passionate commitment to our students and their needs.

I would like to pass along two reminders to everyone as we move toward the new school year. First, don’t forget to renew your membership if you haven’t done so already! It’s easy to forget…I’ve certainly done so myself in the past! Thankfully MTNA makes it very easy to renew online here.

Second, be thinking about creative ways for you, your local association, and your students and families to participate in TMTA and MTNA fundraisers! We have so many wonderful opportunities to give awards to students, teachers, collegiate students, and local and collegiate chapters. It’s especially meaningful to be able to give travel assistance to our MTNA competition winners from Texas, and to grant funds for professional development and studio equipment through our TMTA Teacher Enrichment Grants or the MTNA MarySue Harris Studio Teacher Fellowship Award. There are so many other awards that depend on our support. Check them out at the links below and let your creativity flow!