PTA IN CA FEB 2013

InsideMessage from

Carol Kocivar, page 3

PTA is the key

ingredient, page 4

Every child is an artist,

pages 8-9

®

Volume 75 • Number 3 Official Newsletter of the California State PTA February 2013

Inside

everychild. onevoice.

PTA membership drives offer anopportunity to connect adminis-trators, teachers, parents and

students. They open the door toshared goals and increased dialoguefor those who care about children.Membership drives also create aunique opportunity to share the valueof PTA with the community at large– to highlight what PTA does to en-rich the lives of children.

How can your PTA re-energize yourmembership recruitment efforts byshowcasing the value of PTA?

Lanai Road Elementary School PTAin Los Angeles (Thirty-First DistrictPTA, Los Robles Council PTA) hasincreased membership by more than70 percent over the past three yearsby using every opportunity to show-case the many programs and servicesthat the PTA helps support, includingPTA Science Explosion Day, TeamGreen Recycling, book fairs, movienight and “Character Counts” Re-spect Day.

Membership letters highlight the keybenefits of what the PTA does andhow it helps the students. Articles inthe school newsletter introduce keyPTA leaders and describe the pro-grams they help facilitate on campus,putting a PTA face to each event andprogram. Back to school night activi-ties also highlight the program suc-cesses on campus and help create aneven stronger bond to the PTA.

“Lanai Road has a lot of great pro-grams that are funded by PTA, and

parents see those pro-grams every day,” says Member-ship Chair Diana Struhl. “Wehighlight the success of theprograms and get studentsand parents connected. Par-ents see that without thePTA, many of their children’s favorite events and activities would not be offered.”

Re-energizing your membership drive

By connecting PTA programs, such as PTAScience Explosion Day, to itsmembership recruitment efforts,Lanai Road Elementary School PTAhelps parents, teachers andstudents build astronger connection tothe school.

Winter and

spring are great times

to re-energize your

membership drives to attract new

members and strengthen your

PTA – plus, your PTA can qualify

for great prizes

by meeting the Lucky 13 in

2013 membership challenge.

For more information on

the Lucky 13 in 2013

membership challenge,

see page 2.

2 PTA in California • February 2013

For your PTA, the number13 can be lucky in 2013!Every time your PTAincreases yourmembership total by 13members over last year’stotal, your PTA will beentered to win greatprizes. The more your PTAincreases membership, themore chances you have towin!

Your PTA could winthe ultimate Lucky13 in 2013 giftbasket filled withdonations fromsponsors, vendorsand businesses.

Plus, two lucky PTAswill receive $1,313 incash to help supportPTA programs andservices at yourschool.

The winning units will beannounced at the 2013California State PTAAnnual Convention in May.

Don’t miss youropportunity to be lucky in 2013 – deadline isMarch 31, 2013. Noapplication required.

To learn more about theLucky 13 in 2013membership challenge,visit www.capta.organd click the Lucky 13in 2013 image at the topof the page.

YourPTAcan belucky in2013 whenyou increasemembership

New play structure makesrecess more colorful

PTA Spotlight

Photo by Edmund Lee/Lafayette PTA

Recess at Lafayette Elemen-tary School in San Francisco(Second District PTA) is now

more colorful than ever – thanks toa brand-new, PTA-funded playstructure.

Over the past several years, thePTA embarked on a mission tobring fitness and fun to the studentsby committing to a major schoolcapitol improvement project.

“Committing to undertake thefunding of this project is a bigdeal,” says PTA President AnnetteHurst. “This project required agreat deal of coordination with ourschool administration and theschool district’s architects andbuilding supervisors.”

“This project was a team effort,” continues Hurst. “Throughincredible hard work, teamwork,patience and great leadership skillsby our immediate past president aswell as the grant writing and silentauction committees, we were ableto make the dream of the playstructure a reality.”

The play structure is currently 99percent complete. All that remainsis to have the safety matting pouredinto place and the project signedoff on. Thanks to the efforts of thePTA, students will soon be climb-ing, swinging and sliding their wayto fitness while having fun!

PTA in California • February 2013 3

A message from Carol Kocivar, President

One of the important lessonswe learn from PTA is, “Don’tbe afraid to speak up for chil-

dren.” And this year, now morethan ever, PTA must continue tolead the conversation.

From speaking out for adequate andequitable funding for our schools toadvocating for schools and commu-nities that keep our children safe,our mission remains focused: Im-proving the lives of children.

Adequate Funding for SchoolsWe can be thankful that after yearsof horrible budget cuts, additionalcuts to schools are not part of theproposed California budget. How-ever…there is always that “how-ever”… look at this in light ofnational education funding.

Within moments of the announce-ment that California schools wouldbe protected in the Governor’s statebudget proposal, Education Week is-sued its latest report on the qualityof our nation’s schools.

California’s grade?

“F” in spending on education and“D” on student achievement.

The median spending for the U.S.was $11, 824 (based on 2010 num-bers).

Some states invest more than$18,000 per student (Wyoming andVermont), some in the range of$15,000 through $16,000 per stu-dent (New York, New Jersey,Alaska) and then we have Californiaat $8,482. (California spending, infact, dropped even lower to $7,967in 2012‐13. This year’s budget pro-poses ongoing K‐12 Proposition 98per‐pupil expenditures of $8,304 for2013‐14.)

California is still almost dead last –still in the national basement.

Budgets are a reflection of our val-ues. It is clear we are still not meet-ing our responsibility to children.

Making education a priority, even inan austere budget, is important. Andthis year’s California budget pro-poses some additional dollars for K-12 schools, community colleges andhigher education.

However…yes…however…

We must once and for all addressCalifornia’s school funding crisis –move up from the basement – andrestore and build up the programsand services all children need to besuccessful. This includes restoringand investing in early childhood ed-ucation.

We also need to improve the schoolfunding system so that it is more ra-tional, transparent, and accountable,and provides additional resourcesfor the students who need themmost. Both adequacy and equity inschool funding are essential.

CommitmentWhat will it take to ensure that bythe time today’s kindergartenersenter middle school we are not stillhaving this same stale conversationabout whether, or how, to perma-nently get out of the basement inschool funding?

It will take commitment – ongoingcommitment.

We especially need a commitment

from our elected officials to pushforward with the hard, but vital,work.

And, we need a commitment fromour parents and communities tospeak out to ensure all children havea high quality education.

2020Let’s start with a commitment to liftper-student funding in California toat least the Top 20 among states by2020. This is both a realistic andambitious goal. It’s not too much toask and it’s not too little. (Note: Theoriginal intent of Proposition 98, theschool funding constitutional initia-tive passed in 1988, was to lift us tothe Top 10 in funding. Enoughsaid.)

Investment in all students must stillbe raised sharply.

Safe Schools and Safe Communities for All Children Sandy Hook

Virginia Tech

Columbine

Stockton

How many more school names shallwe remember not for a list of gradu-ates, but for the number of childrenkilled?

The answer should be clear – not onemore school, not one more child.

We need a commitment from our parents and

communities to speak out toensure all children have a

high quality education.

Don’t be afraid to speak up for children

continued on page 15

With school districts facingmajor budget cuts, PTAs areplaying a more vital role than

ever in helping schools keep or bringback programs that help enrich theirstudent’s educational experience.

At Crocker/Riverside ElementarySchool in Sacramento (Third DistrictPTA, Sacramento Council of PTAs),thanks to the work of more than 500PTA members, the PTA has been ableto help the school keep existing pro-grams as well as help start new onesthroughout the years.

“I value the PTA,” says Alvin Lee,past principal for Crocker/Riverside.“It would be very difficult to providemany of the things that we currentlyprovide without the support of ourPTA and their funding. Their support,finances, people and resources reallyhelp us.”

“The PTA is essential to active parentinvolvement in any school – it’s thekey ingredient to the success of theschool and the success of the stu-dents,” says Anne Hawley, PTA unitpresident.

The PTA has helped the school inseveral ways throughout the years,one of which is through the ReadingRebounders program. Started nearlyfive years ago, the program helps stu-dents who could benefit from extrareading. First and second graders arepaired with sixth grade student men-tors to read during lunch. The result:

Improved grades and an opportunityfor the students to create bonds andrelationships that helps strengthenschool spirit. “A total win-win,” saysHawley.

In addition to the Reading Rebound-ers program, the PTA also supportsreading in the school through itswork with the school’s library.

According to Lee, the school’s librarywas small and not meeting the needsof the students. Through the supportof the PTA, the library was updatedto a modern media center, includingcomputers and an updated book se-lection. The PTA raises money to payfor a part-time librarian, which theschool had cut a few years earlier dueto budget cuts. The PTA also pur-chased tablet readers with the goal toexpand reading beyond the class-room.

And, that’s not it for theCrocker/Riverside PTA! The PTA isalways working on new programs toenhance the school including expand-ing the music appreciation program.The PTA is also looking for addi-tional ways to continue to enhancetechnology in the classroom.

Overall, Hawley says the number onegoal of the PTA is to support the stu-dents, principal and teachers. Boththe school and the PTA share a com-mon goal – to meet the high expecta-tions and standards that the childrendeserve!

PTA is the key ingredient at Crocker/Riverside Elementary School

The PTA Reading Rebounders program atCrocker/Riverside Elementary School helpsimprove grades and build studentrelationships.

PTA members give their time to help withimportant work on campus including the ArtDocent and Garden Docent programs.“Reprinted with permission from The Land Park News”


Research shows that when parents and families are involved, stu-dents achieve and have more success in school. With this inmind, PTA Take Your Family to School Week is just one of the

PTA programs revitalizing parent involvement in education.

Take Your Family to School Week is February 18-22 with the theme of“Safety at Home and Play.” This year, PTAs have the opportunity toeducate families of students about the most dangerous safety risks inthe home and at play. With hands-on educational activities, PTAs canencourage families to work together toward promoting safer behaviors.

Here’s a sneak peak at what some PTAs have planned.

Eastlake High School PTSA in Chula Vista (Ninth DistrictPTA, Sweetwater Secondary Council PTA) will host a breakfast meetand greet with teachers, parents, students and local community mem-bers. The event will include safety presentations from the local fire de-partment and law enforcement agencies.

Chaparral High School PTSA in Temecula (Twenty-Third Dis-trict PTA, Temecula Valley Council of PTAs) has plans to create aWatch D.O.G.S. (Dads of Great Students) program with the goal of

helping to create a safer school forstudents. To kick off WatchD.O.G.S. and Take Your Family toSchool Week, the PTA will host ahead injury and concussion aware-ness and prevention event that willinclude a question and answer ses-sion with local healthcare profes-sionals.

Eleanor J. Toll MiddleSchool PTA in Glendale(First District PTA, GlendaleCouncil PTA) has plans in theworks to focus on getting toschool safely, whether bywalking to school, cycling orskateboarding. They alsohave plans to incorporatesafety at home by planninga family-centered activity toeducate parents and stu-dents about prescriptionmedication and the dan-gers of misuse.


Put some “WOW” intoparent involvement—Take Your Family toSchool Week

Congratulations!Twenty-two California State PTAunits have been selected as recipientsof a National PTA grant to celebrateTake Your Family to School Week.

First District PTA Eleanor J. Toll PTA, Inc.

Second District PTA Monroe Elementary School PTA

Third District PTA Camellia Basic Elementary PTA Leroy Greene Academy PTA John Cabrillo Elementary PTA

Fourth District PTA Marian Bergeson Elementary PTA Canyon View Elementary School PTA

Fifth District PTA Desert Trails PTA Grapeland Elementary PTA

Ninth District PTA Eastlake High School PTSA Charles W. Cadman Elementary PTA Oak Hill Elementary PTA

Tenth District PTA Meyler Elementary PTA

Eleventh District PTA Herndon Barstow PTA

Twelfth District PTA Peach Hill Academy PTA La Mariposa School PTA

Seventeenth District PTA Selby Lane Elementary PTA

Twenty-Third District PTA Chaparral High School PTSA Herk Bouris Elementary PTA Orange Elementary PTA Wilson Elementary PTA

Peralta District PTA Lorin Eden Elementary PTA

Your school can join thecelebration!National PTA has tools to help your PTAhost Take Your Family to School Weekevents including:

A guide for how to plan, promote, hostand evaluate week-long activities

Lessons for family-focused PTAevents with take-home tools

Posters and family recruitment toolsincluding letters, newsletter tem-plates, fliers and messaging scripts

Media outreach templates to help pro-mote Take Your Family to SchoolWeek events


“Behind the Scenes” at ConventionBy registering early to attend the Cali-fornia State PTA Convention in 2012,held in Long Beach, one lucky PTAleader won a day of going behind thescenes of the convention. CristinaGuzman, president of MontebelloCouncil in Thirty-Third District PTA,was very surprised to learn that shehad won.

Cristina’s “behind the scenes” daybegan in the convention site office fora meeting with Justine Fischer, vicepresident for convention. Justine gaveCristina her schedule for the day.

First on the list was Cristina’s time tohelp in registration, where she learnedthe “tap and go” system, which shethought was fun to use. Next on herlist was a tour of the exhibits area.Then she helped to check all of theworkshop classrooms to make surethey had been set up correctly. Fol-lowing that she was able to attend acouple of workshops.

Cristina attended the Mercedes-BenzDriving Academy lunch as a guest andfollowing lunch, she headed backstage(stage right) for the general meeting.Her new task was to keep track of the

program script, and checking to see ifthe program was running ahead orrunning behind for time. She thoughtbackstage was very interesting.

Her busy day ended after the generalmeeting. Cristina has three grownchildren, but she returned to PTAleadership for her grandchildren. Shehas been in PTA for over 30 years!

Cristina has a cheerful attitude. Shesaid the busy day had worn her out,but she thinks convention is wonder-ful. She said that she “appreciates allthat we (California State PTA) do!”

EdSourceSpecial Eventat the

California State PTA Annual Convention

Saturday, May 4, 201310 a.m. to 3:30 p.m.

$20 Continental Breakfast Included

Join leading policy experts and educators in anexciting forum organized by EdSource titled,“Measuring Up: What’s Next for Students,Teachers and Schools.” The forum willexamine the latest proposals for reform oftesting, school accountability, and teacherpreparation and retention in California — withinthe context of sweeping changes beingproposed for the state's school finance system.

IMAGINE

IMAGINE


Where can you build the skills to strengthenyour school and community while havingfun and connecting with PTA leaders from

across the state? The 2013 California State PTAAnnual Convention!

Attending Convention is an investment in the future of your school and your children. Whetheryou are a newly-elected officer or a seasoned PTAleader, you’ll obtain tools and resources to sharewith your local PTA.

Convention is the place to get the resources andsupport you need to build an even stronger PTA.

Hear from motivating and inspiring keynotespeakers on hot topics such as bullying

Participate in workshops and learn newskills

Exchange ideas and network with PTA leaders from across the state

Have fun and celebrate PTA

Take advantage of discounted registration and save money for your PTA!

u March 31 – Last day for discounted registration and hotel group rates

u April 15 – Mail-in registration closes

u April 18 – Electronic handouts available online

u April 26 – Online registration closes

u May 1-5 – Onsite registration is available

Register today online atwww.capta.org and IMAGINE

the possibilities at the 2013

Annual Convention!

IMAGINE what we can do together for children!

MAY 2-5, 2013

Arts education is essential for all studentsArt is an important expressive outlet, a cultivator of creativity, and an essential component

of any curriculum. Here are some quick facts about the importance of arts education for all

students.

Young people who regularly participate in art are:

4 times more likely to be recognized for academic achievement

3 times more likely to be elected to class office within their schools

4 times more likely to participate in a math and science fair

3 times more likely to win an award for school attendance

4 times more likely to win an award for writing an essay or poem

Source: Americans for the Arts, http://www.americansforthearts.org/

Did you know March is Arts Education Month?Arts Education Month is a time to celebrate and strengthen

arts education in our schools for all students. It’s a

celebration of the creative endeavors taking place in our

schools and in our community arts organizations. It is a way

to show the community – as well as policy makers – how the

arts are making a difference in education. Arts Education

Month is a perfect time to demonstrate the value of arts

education and invite your elected officials into your schools

to witness and recognize the power of learning in the arts.

Visual arts

Colors in Nature

Taryn LiuFifth Grade, La Mariposa School

Twelfth District


Are you passionate aboutmaking sure every child hasaccess to arts education?California State PTA believes the arts are essential for a

creative, engaged, work-prepared and civic-minded student

population. The arts are a critical link to learning success.

That's why California State PTA is leading an effort to create

a sustainable and ever-growing network of parents, family

members and caring adults who will act at the local and

state levels to promote and support access for all students

to a complete education that includes the arts.

Join the California State PTA SMARTS, Parents for

the Arts, network and be a champion for the arts! Visit

http://www.capta.org/sections/programs-smarts/index.cfm

to join!

Connecting with school board members to promote arts education in schools

“I do not want artfor a few any morethan education fora few, or freedomfor a few.”

~William Morris


“Every child is an

artist. The problem is

how to remain an

artist once we grow

up.” ~Pablo Picasso

California State PTA recently joined the California Alliance for Arts Education to

help provide parents with creative ways to connect with school board members

to help them better understand the importance of arts education in schools.

Participants in the hour-long online webinar learned practical and unique ways

to promote arts education. Here are a few tips on how to engage your school

board members in the arts in your school community.

Develop a relationship with your school board members

by getting to know them and acknowledging their work.

Invite school board members to be your guest at special

art performances at your school.

Provide a behind-the-scene tour of the set.

Introduce school board members to student artists and encourage

students to share how the arts have impacted their lives.

Share good news related to the arts during a formal presentation at school

board meetings. Be sure to coordinate with appropriate district staff.

Invite school board members to participate in meetings

to formulate and update district arts plans.

Encourage board members to approve teacher

in-services for arts integration.

For more information about the

California Alliance for Arts Education,

visit http://www.artsed411.org/.

Visual arts

We Are All Talented

Tiffany HyonFirst Grade, Tesoro del Valle Elementary School

Thirty-Fourth District

A message from Paul Richman, Executive Director

Empowering parents is part of California State PTA’smission – and through our

School Smarts parent engagementprogram, we’ve been partneringwith local PTAs, schools andschool districts to do even moreof this.

More than 700 parents so far havegraduated from the School Smartsparent academies at schools in our initial four pilotschool districts. (By April that number will grow aswe expand to more pilot schools, with the goal ofmaking the program available to PTAs statewide inthe future.)

Our program has been especially successful at reach-ing out to the wide diversity of parents and familymembers in our communities, including those whohave been previously less involved. In fact, the Na-tional PTA honored California State PTA and SchoolSmarts with its very first Jan Domene Diversity andInclusion Award for our success in connecting moreparents from all backgrounds with their schools.

Working with educators and parents in School Smarts,we continue to learn and affirm things each day aboutengaging and empowering parents. These approachescan help your PTA and school right now, even ifyou’re not yet participating in the program. Some arethings that we know intuitively but sometimes forgetto do; others have been reinforced by our data and experiences.

So, if your PTA’s goal is to engage more parents andfamily members, here are five things to take to heart.

uRemember: Parents choose to participate initiallybecause they want to learn more about how theycan support their own children. Most new or previ-ously uninvolved parents won’t choose to becomeengaged in your PTA because you post a sign-upsheet seeking volunteers for the next field trip orfundraiser. It takes cultivating a relationship. Andone of the best ways to get more parents onto yourschool campus is simply to show that your PTAand school “gets” them. Plan events and activities

with an eye toward addressing what we know allparents care deeply about – the safety, health andquality education of their children. Save the sign-up sheet or intricate Standing Rules discussions fora little later, after you’ve developed a relationshipwith newer parents – and after you’ve shown youunderstand what they care about most.

v Personal invitations are the single best way to recruit and encourage a broad cross-section of par-ents to participate in your PTA and school. Most ofus don’t need a report or data to tell us this, and yet– most of us keep plodding along sending groupemails or printing fliers. Why? We know that per-sonal invitations – a phone call, a direct conversa-tion, a handwritten note – work wonders, but thepersonal touch requires extra time and we’re allstretched for that, right? Well, this is the one activity you should make more time for, plain andsimple. Find something else to skip or do less ofinstead – and devote more of your precious time tothe personal connection that shows you care. Youwon’t regret it.

w Teachers are the most direct line of contact betweenschools and parents. Speaking of the personalconnection, teachers play an essential but some-times overlooked role. Our School Smarts programhas reminded us: If teachers aren’t part of yourPTA’s communications plan, you need to re-thinkthat plan. Ask your teachers to help make personalinvitations to important events. And don’t forget tofind ways both big and small to show your teachersyou care about them. What’s special about PTA isthat we are parents and teachers working togetherto make a difference for all children.

Working with educators andparents in School Smarts, wecontinue to learn and affirm

things each day about engagingand empowering parents.

Want to engage and empower more parents through your PTA? Take these 5 things to heart

continued on page 15



Building a nation of readers“You’re never too old, too wacky, too wild, topick up a book and read with a child”

~Dr. Seuss

never too old, too wacky, too wild, to pick up a book and read with a child

From early on, children s Also, children should be encouraged to talk about b

Make it a print-rich one. Make sure to put up some signs around the house that use

t Have toys like alphabet refrigerator magnets, writing materials and high quality books. The National E

Vocabulary, language skills and knowledge a

Point out how spaces separate words.

O Point to the period at the end of sentences and say, “That’s the end.”

W Pause to ask questions to help t Help children understand the main characters of stories and encourage them to talk a

A well-supplied, well-designed space A varied curriculum Strong parent-teacher conferences Strong teaching methods and teamwork among teachers A regular daily routine Language experience

T

ww.nea.org/readacross

The National Education Association (NEA) is build-ing a nation of readers through its signature pro-gram, Read Across America. The program, in its 16th

year, focuses on motivating children and teens toread and celebrate the places a book will takethem.

NEA’s Read Across America Day, takes place eachyear on or near March 2, the birthday of Dr. Seuss.Across the country, thousands of schools, librariesand community centers participate by bringing to-gether kids, teens and books, and you can too!

Help your school celebrate this wonderful literacyprogram for adults sharing a book with children.

Center Street School PTA in ElSegundo (Thirty-Third District PTA,El Segundo Council of PTAs) hosteda Family Literacy Night to celebratethe joy of reading.

As a senior at UCLA, I havefound that my biggest successesin life thus far have come about

through the use and fine tuning of mycommunication skills. Even with sub-stantial opportunities for public speak-ing—not just as a student, but as aboard member of California StatePTA—I still consider communicationa skill I need to practice more thanany other.

Communication is key in so many in-teractions. As PTA members and lead-ers, we must polish our speaking andlistening skills so that we can put ourbest voice and message forward, notjust for the advancement of our organ-ization, but to benefit the students weserve.

Each and every one of us should havea prepared “elevator speech”—a 60-second pitch on what PTA is all aboutand why joining will help children.It’s true that many parents do not jointhe PTA because they were not asked,but just as detrimental to our organiza-tion is asking a parent to join without

sharing why and how. Develop a mes-sage that works for you, briefly de-scribing what we do, why we do it,and why their membership can make adifference in the lives of children. Fol-low the examples of your fellow PTAleaders who have great speakingvoices, whether from the CaliforniaState PTA Board of Managers or fromyour local PTA unit.

And let us not forget the example weset for students around us. Studentsabsorb and emulate the information

and skills demonstrated by adults andindividuals in positions of authority.As PTA members, we must model forfuture leaders how to properly com-municate and advocate for PTA.

Finally, remember one of our highestpriorities is to connect with peoplearound us through conversations thatspeak for “every child through onevoice.” It is our responsibility to en-hance our communication skills sothat we may have a greater impact forthe kids of today and tomorrow.

Consider these exercises to communicateour message more productively: practice in the mirror with your written talking points;

practice with fellow PTA members or your children;

join your local Toastmasters group to improve publicspeaking delivery;

watch politicians speak to audiences or debate, andconsider the message elements that are mosteffective; and

get tips and inspiration from videos on websitessuch as www.TED.com or www.YouTube.com

Speaking Our Message, Peaking Our Membership

Joey Abram, Senior, UCLAMembership Commission &

Student Involvement CommitteeCalifornia State PTA

For more informationabout Read AcrossAmerica, visit theNational EducationAssociation’s websiteat www.nea.org.


In a unique partnership, California State PTA and Radio Disney aregetting more than 7,000 elementary-school kids in the Bay Areaexcited about science through the dynamic educational Science

Rocks program. By blending education and entertainment, the pro-gram raises awareness about science and science careers, and helpsto make science “cool.” The program features a 45-minute school-wide assembly showcasing Radio Disney performers.

Science Rocks is being offered to 14 elementary schools this winteras part of a grant that California State PTA received.

“Right now, the U.S. education system does not prepare enough ofour students with skills in science, technology, engineering and math(STEM) to help them compete for jobs in the 21st century, globalworkforce,” says California State PTA Vice President for EducationDianna MacDonald. “Science Rocks is a way to reach elementarystudents and help make science exciting for them.”

Additionally, the program offers a short classroom activity based onthe principles illustrated in the assembly. It also increases parentalawareness about the importance of encouraging and supporting theirchildren’s interest in science, technology, engineering and math withtake-home materials.

“Parents and educators, in particular, need greater awareness abouthow important it is for students to advance their proficiency levelsand become highly skilled in STEM fields,” says MacDonald. “Atthe conclusion of the program, our hope is that students will be moreexcited about science and see that science does in fact, rock!”

Next GenerationScience Standardsprepare studentsfor a 21st CenturyWorldScience, technology, engineering and

math are the foundations for innova-

tion. STEM-educated students find

solutions to the many challenges

faced by our nation and the world

today.

In our increasingly complex, demand-

ing and competitive 21st century

world, students must develop the

skills needed to succeed in the jobs

of the future. The Next Generation

Science Standards (NGSS) will change

the way science is taught and learned

in classrooms nationwide by fully en-

gaging K–12 students in three essen-

tial dimensions—disciplinary core

ideas, scientific and engineering

practices, and crosscutting con-

cepts—in a way that will deepen and

strengthen their knowledge and skills

in science.

California State PTA believes that to

remain competitive in a global soci-

ety, the U.S. has a responsibility to

provide educational programs and

support services to develop responsi-

ble, productive citizens for tomor-

row. California State PTA works to

support efforts to improve STEM edu-

cation, enabling more students to ac-

quire skills for access to higher

education and employment in the 21st

century workforce.

PTA and Radio Disneybring ‘Science Rocks!’ tothe Bay Area

Radio Disney performersused games, demonstrations andbreak dancing to show studentsthat Science Rocks! during a 45-minute school assembly.

For more information on the Next

Generation Science Standards, visit

http://www.nextgenscience.org/.

For more information about California

State PTA’s resolution on STEM

education, visit http://www.capta.org

/sections/advocacy/resolutions.cfm.


So, what’s the big deal with tax filing?

Filing tax forms isn’t the main reason you got involved with PTA. But making sure your PTAsubmits all of the appropriate state and federal forms is vital. It helps your PTA continuesupporting all the great programs at your school. And parents, school staff and the commu-

nity know that your PTA’s tax-exempt status is up-to-date, so their donations are tax-deductible.

Recently, California State PTA Treasurer Kathy Stevenson sat down with us and answered someof the most frequently asked questions we hear about the tax filing requirements.

PTA in California: So, what’s the big deal with taxfiling? Why is so much time being spentdiscussing it and why do we have to do it?

Kathy: Filing your tax forms on time is a requirementfor all nonprofit organizations, not just PTAs. And inrecent years, both the state Franchise Tax Board andthe federal Internal Revenue Service (IRS) haveadded new requirements. While sometimes it mayseem like just more paperwork to complete, the intentis to make sure that any organization claiming tax-ex-empt status and accepting charitable contributions hasproperly registered and reported information.

As PTAs, we have some great advantages because allPTAs fall under the state PTA’s general exemptionnumber. But it also means we all have a responsibilityto preserve our good standing. Most importantly, by filing your forms, you’ll protect your PTA and ensurethat you can continue to raise funds to support all thegreat programs at your school and in your community.

PTA in California: Cut to the chase then: Whatexactly does my PTA have to do?

Kathy: There are a few specific forms PTAs mustcomplete.

At the state level, each year you must file a 199Nor Form 199 with the Franchise Tax board, and aRegistration Renewal Form (RRF-1) with the At-torney General’s Charitable Trust Office.

At the federal level, you must file either a 990N,990EZ or 990 each year.

That’s it – three total forms each year.

The deadlines for these depend on when yourPTA’s fiscal year ends. Most PTAs are on a July 1to June 30 fiscal year, but make sure to check, sothat you can determine when your forms are due.

To help, state PTA and your district PTA have lotsof resources. We have an area on our website(www.capta.org) with handy checklists and sampleforms, and you can call our state office for addi-tional assistance. Once you get the hang of it, it’sactually very easy to meet the requirements – andyour PTA and your students will be better off!

PTA in California: One of the things that getsconfusing as a unit leader are all the differentstate and federal ID numbers that our PTA has. Is there an easy way to keep those straight?

Kathy: Yes. Here are the specific tax identifica-tion numbers that every PTA is assigned or musthave:

Federal Tax Identification Number (FEIN)

State Franchise Tax Board IdentificationNumber

Charitable Trust Number (through theCalifornia Attorney General’s Office)

If incorporated, a corporate number wouldalso be assigned

These numbers are all located in your bylaws.You can also contact your District PTA to re-quest a handy sheet with all of your PTA’s num-bers on it.

PTA in California: Is there anything else PTA leadersneed to be aware of?

Kathy: If you receive ANY communication from the IRSor State Franchise Tax Board contact your district PTA im-mediately, and provide copies of the communication. Donot attempt to resolve an issue without contacting the dis-trict PTA first. Many times the district can provide addi-tional guidance that will be a simple fix to the situation and may be able to prevent your PTA from paying fines.

PTAs can hire and pay for a tax professional to completethe required tax filings as well. It is important to find a taxprofessional familiar with filing tax returns for nonprofitorganizations, specifically 501(c)3 organizations. You arenot alone in figuring this out. Please don’t hesitate to con-tact your district or state PTA with questions.


‘Be Tobacco Free’ tools available for PTAs and parents

Each day, more than 1,200 people in the U.S. die from smok-ing and more than 2,500 youths and young adults becomeregular smokers.

Although smoking is decreasing among youth, seven percent ofmiddle-school students and 23 percent of high school studentsused some form of tobacco last year.

There is a new web site, BeTobaccoFree.gov, to help reduce thepercent of students who smoke. It provides access to the best andmost up-to-date tobacco-related information from across Healthand Human Services agencies. This consolidated resourceincludes general information on tobacco, federal and state lawsand policies, health statistics, and evidence-based methods onhow to quit.

BeTobaccoFree.gov makes information accessible anywhere,anytime on any platform – from smart phone to tablet to desktop.The website’s unique social media dashboard, “Say it – Share it,”constantly provides real-time updates.

Health and Human Services has increased efforts to reducetobacco use:

The U.S. Food and Drug Administration created a nationalscience-based tobacco product regulation program to reducethe impact of tobacco use on the nation’s health, especiallyamong youth. For example, it is enforcing the ban on candyand fruit flavored cigarettes as well as other restrictions ontobacco products and marketing.

The National Cancer Institute recently launched Quitpal, afree smartphone app to support smokers working to becomesmoke-free.

The Surgeon General released its 2012 report PreventingTobacco Use Among Youth and Young Adults which detailsthe scope, health consequences and influences that lead toyouth tobacco use and proven strategies that prevent its use.(www.surgeongeneral.gov/library/reports/preventing-youth-tobacco-use/index.html)

PTAs can review the results of their schools’ California HealthyKids Survey to determine the incidence of smoking and tobaccouse and can promote school district cessation programs for stu-dents and adults. PTAs can provide speakers for parents andteens on the addictive effects of smoking on the brain and lungs,and the lifelong benefits of quitting. PTAs can encourage the useof the apps and social media for prevention and recovery.

Visit www.BeTobaccoFree.gov for information on helping tobaccousers quit and providing young people with information on avoidingor ending tobacco use.


In our schools, in our shopping centers and in all our communi-ties, public safety trumps the right of anyone to have an assaultweapon designed for the battlefield.

This is one of those defining moments that call for our electedofficials to look beyond polls and into the faces of our childrenand keep them safe from harm.

More than 20 years ago, California State PTA called for the banon assault weapons following the killings at an elementaryschool in Stockton. Then, a gunman opened fire with an AK 47assault rifle on the playground of Cleveland Elementary School.Five children were killed and many others injured.

Today we renew that call – a call for limiting access to assaultweapons and ammunition, a call for improved mental healthservices for our children and our communities, and a call for acloser look at how we keep our children safe at school.

Don’t be afraid to speak up for children. Their future depends on you.

Don’t be afraid to speak up for children continued from page 3

xBuy-in from the principal is essential, (but notsufficient). The principal plays a pivotal rolein creating a culture of parent engagement onthe campus. You should work closely withthe principal to develop mutual approaches.Don’t just tell the principal what you’d liketo see happen to engage more parents, showhow your PTA can partner with him or her tomake it happen. At the end of the day,though, remember true parent engagement isbigger than any one principal or PTA presi-dent. Your goal should be building a schoolculture where all parents expect to be and aremeaningfully involved, even when key indi-vidual leaders come or go.

y Lastly, in everything you do as a PTA and atyour school, meet parents and family mem-bers where they’re at. This is perhaps themost important single lesson we’ve learnedfrom School Smarts: Your PTA must fitschool involvement into the lives and reali-ties of your parents and families, not theother way around. What does that mean? Ifyou have parents who don’t speak Englishwith confidence, make sure you have inter-preters at your events and meetings. If someparents work during the day, hold some meet-ings in the evening. If some parents can onlyattend an event if they can bring their youngchildren, find a way to provide childcare. Ifyour school program begins in the earlyevening, consider providing a light meal orsnack to make it easier for parents to juggletheir other responsibilities and attend. Thesemay seem like basic steps, but sometimes weforget them – or else we dismiss these as “ex-tras we can’t afford.” But just like arts arepart of the core curriculum for all students,meeting your parents where they’re at is notan extra – it’s part of the core of engagement.

I’ve met PTA leaders around the state and Iknow you and they are some of the most creativeand committed people in the world. When youset your mind to finding a way, you make it hap-pen. In many respects, that’s the true power ofPTA. So, when it comes to meeting parents andfamily members where they’re at, even if it’schallenging at first, don’t just think it, do it –and your PTA and school will be successful.

After all, your PTA is perfectly positioned tobring parents from all backgrounds and experi-ences together with educators in a commoncause – our children.

Now more than ever, California’s children need your voice

Legislation Conference 2013Registration now open!February 25-26

Want to engage and empower more parents through your PTA?continued from page 10

Now, more than ever, California’s children need yourvoice. You can be a part of the statewide effort tostrengthen education, health and safety for all children by

engaging in PTA’s advocacy and legislative priorities.

Whether you’re experienced in speaking up for children — oryou are interested in learning about key issues and legislationso you can get more involved in your school, community andstatewide — this year’s PTA Legislation Conference is for you!

You can look forward to getting the latest information fromlegislators and key officials about the state of our schools, thestatus of education funding and other critical children’s issues– and have a chance to get your questions answered. You’llalso visit directly with the legislators who represent your com-munity. If you’re new to the process California State PTA willconnect you with others so you can learn how to have moreproductive visits with your legislator.

Get involved and make a difference today!

For more information – and to register – go online to www.capta.org and

click on “Legislation Conference 2013” on the homepage.

Registration includes all conference activities, materials, lunch anddinner on Monday and lunch at the Capitol on Tuesday. Hotelreservations at the Embassy Suites Hotel located at 100 Capitol Mallmust be made separately.

Stay Connected!Sign up for free emails about new resources, legislative updates and alerts, PTA publicationsand other important news and offers.

It’s easy.Go to http://www.capta.org/sections/publications/hit the blinking “Subscribe Now” link near the topof the page, and sign up to receive a wealth offree information for free.

California State

2327 L Street

Sacramento, California 95816-5014

If you are no longer a PTA president, please forward this and all

mailings immediately to your successor.

Articles appearing in this newsletter may be reprinted in PTA unit, council anddistrict newsletters only. Please credit the California State PTA.

PTA IN CAlIFORNIA2327 L Street, Sacramento, California 95816-5014

PH (916) 440-1985 • FAX (916) 440-1986World Wide Web address <www.capta.org> • E-mail <[email protected]>

February 2013, Official newsletter of the California State PTA, Volume 75,No. 3. Four issues published annually. Subscription rate $5.00. Circulation4,800. ©2012 California Congress of Parents, Teachers, and Students, Inc.All rights reserved. PTA® is a registered service mark of the National Congressof Parents and Teachers.

President: Carol KocivarVice President for Communications: Kathryn Cross

Editor: Tiia BullenExecutive Director: Paul Richman

Communications Manager: Michelle EklundDesign: Pat Ruiz

The mission of the California State PTA is to positively impact the lives of all children and families by representing our members, and empowering and supporting them with skills in advocacy, leadership and communications.

Adopted October 2011

®

Nonprofit

Organization

U. S. Postage

PAID

Sacramento, CA

Permit No. 1491

March 2013

Arts Education Month

1 PTA & Common Sense Media Parent Education Award

application deadline

15 Deadline to submit Student Board Member applications

31 Lucky 13 in 2013 Membership Challenge deadline

31 School Wellness Recognition Program applications due

31 Last day for convention discounted registration and hotel

group rates

April 2013

15 Convention mail-in registration deadline

22 Earth Day

26 Convention online registration deadline

May 2013

2-5 114th California State PTA Annual Convention in San Jose

3 Jan Harp Domene Diversity and Inclusion Award applications due

6-10 Teacher Appreciation Week

. * due in State PTA office

Accounting OnlinePTAEZTM is a web-based financial software package that hasbeen tailored to meet the needs of California’s PTAs. It’s availableexclusively to PTAs in California at a low annual subscriptionrate.

Try it FRee for a month at www.ptaez.org

TM

Update your bylaws electronically with PTA’s

Learn more at www.capta.org

PTA IN CA FEB 2013

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