Plano ISD Council of PTAs tag:www.planopta.org,2010://1 2010-01-31T23:43:31Z Movable Type 4.25 About Plano ISD Council of PTAs tag:www.planopta.org,2006://1.5 2009-06-11T17:53:25Z 2009-06-11T22:47:06Z Letter from the President On behalf of PTA, the largest and oldest child advocacy group in America, welcome to Plano ISD Council of PTAs. Your membership and volunteerism show your commitment to excellence in education and the health and welfare... Webmaster http://www.planopta.org Letter from the President On behalf of PTA, the largest and oldest child advocacy group in America, welcome to Plano ISD Council of PTAs. Your membership and volunteerism show your commitment to excellence in education and the health and welfare of children. If you are already a leader in your local PTA, I hope you will explore this site, and the links available, to learn more about resources and training available to you. Thank you for your efforts and dedication to Plano's students! You are one of the many reasons families love Plano. If you are a new PTA member, or you are interested in becoming a more active member or leader, please know that we are very happy to have you! We challenge you to be part of the National PTA program called "3 For Me" by agreeing to volunteer at least 3 hours for PTA annually. There are volunteer activities that range from bringing a snack for teachers once or twice a year, to chaperoning a field trip, things that can be done on your lunch hour, evenings and weekends all to promote the mission of PTA. Of course, there are always plenty of ways you can help at your campus during the school day also! You can find out more about opportunities to be involved in your PTA by contacting your PTA president. Thirty years of student research shows that students achieve more when they have at least one parent that is involved in their education. Take the time now to let your children see you in action, demonstrating the importance you place on education. They will be so proud of your involvement. By giving your time, you may learn a new skill, develop a talent and maybe make some life-long friendships. There is a special connection and joy between people who have shared watching children grow, learn and achieve together. You have an opportunity to make a difference in your child's development, but also to make a difference for all children. I look forward to hearing about all the great activities going on in your PTA. Please sign up for our PTA Council e-news and site updates. If I can assist you in some way, please contact me. Sincerely, Cara Mendelsohn President, Plano ISD Council of PTAs President@planopta.org

Mission, Objectives and Purposes

Our Council is the key link in the line of communication between the local, area, State, and National PTAs, as well as with the school administration and the general public. Councils provide opportunities for conferences, leadership training, and coordination of efforts, plus information, support, inspiration, and instruction for Council members. The Council serves to strengthen local PTAs, support new PTAs, develop leadership potential, promote PTA membership and serve the community and its children. Plano ISD Council of PTAs is involved in many programs and projects, including leadership training, Officer and Chairman Training, Outstanding PTA Award, Life Membership Banquet, Reflections and Texas PTA Environmental Programs, Vendor Fair, Plano ISD administration holiday luncheon, local PTA program recognition, legislative action and community issues and more. PTA Mission PTA is A powerful voice for all children, A relevant resource for families and communities, and A strong advocate for the education and well-being of every child. PTA Vision Making every child's potential a reality. Council Goals
  • Act as a resource and mentor to strengthen and improve the effectiveness of local PTAs
  • Promote PTA membership, programs, volunteerism and initiatives
  • Strengthen Plano ISD/PTA & PTSA connection to support excellence in education
Council Orientation Training session required for council officers and chairmen, conducted by a state board member or a current district officer by June 15 each year. Acquaints the new board with the role of council in the PTA structure. Texas PTA Handbook A collection of PTA information and publications which is given to the local unit and council presidents. Updates are received from State PTA. The Voice Official publication of Texas Congress of Parents and Teachers contains timely articles, and commentary on children and education, programs, policies, and legislation. Our Children The National PTA magazine offers articles and information related to youth, school, welfare, and parenting. Excellent resource for PTA and for all parents. Council News Council email newsletter published by PISD Council of PTAs. Sent to local presidents, council delegates, principals and subscribed members. Council Board and General Meetings Please refer to the calendar page.]]> Publicity tag:www.planopta.org,2006://1.19 2009-08-28T16:05:19Z 2009-08-28T16:07:17Z Contact chair: publicity [at] planopta.org 2009 PISD Publicity Training [pdf file] Training materials and other resources [password protected area — use ID and password on back of PTA card] PISD Publicity Guidelines [pdf file] neighborsgo Guidelines [pdf file] Press Release... Webmaster http://www.planopta.org Contact chair: publicity [at] planopta.org * 2009 PISD Publicity Training [pdf file] * Training materials and other resources [password protected area -- use ID and password on back of PTA card] * PISD Publicity Guidelines [pdf file] * neighborsgo Guidelines [pdf file] * Press Release Related Examples]]> Webmaster tag:www.planopta.org,2006://1.29 2009-09-04T01:12:19Z 2009-09-04T01:13:01Z Contact chair: webmaster [at] planopta.org Resources Podcasting PTA Meetings Suggestions of things to put on the web site Resources Training and other materials [password protected area — use ID and password on back of PTA card] See Directory of Plano... Webmaster http://www.planopta.org Contact chair: webmaster [at] planopta.org * [Resources](#resources) * [Podcasting PTA Meetings](#podcasting) * [Suggestions of things to put on the web site](#suggestions)

Resources

* Training and other materials [password protected area -- use ID and password on back of PTA card] * See Directory of Plano PTAs for other PTA web sites. * Top Ten Web Hosting: External web site. Start your search for a website host. * Plano ISD School Web Page Guidelines * Lunarpages K-12 Program Web Hosting Program: Though it talks specifically about K-12, they DO cover PTAs. We've asked and this site uses Lunarpages (Thank you, Lunarpages). * **Web Robots** - Web Robots (Also known as Web Wanderers, Crawlers or Spiders) are programs that comb through the web automatically. Search engines use them to index web content, which is usually fine, but spammers can also use them to collect email addresses. One way to protect individuals on your website is to edit your /robots.txt file. - This file resides on your web server, probably in your public_html directory. [Click to view a sample robots.txt file](http://www.planopta.org/training/samplerobots.txt). - The "UserAgent: *" means that this section applies to all robots. The line following "Disallow: " tells the robots which page is off limits. To keep robots off your entire site, use "Disallow: /" - When using your Robots.txt file, remember that it's more of a request than anything else. Robots can ignore your file altogether. Additionally, since it's a public file, robots.txt tells malicious robots exactly what's important to you. At the end of the day, it's best to remember that the web is accessible to the entire world, and choose your content accordingly. * **Books** - Learning Web Design for absolute beginners. - Web Design in a Nutshell -- a little more advanced than Learning Web Design. * **Web Design Applications** - Microsoft Front Page has been replaced by Expression Web. - Macromedia Contribute lets everyone in an organization publish to websites and bring them alive with up-to-date content and information. Free trial download available. - Macromedia Dreamweaver and Studio 8. Free trial download available. - Open Source CMS lists many free content management tools available for use. You can try them out on the web site without going through the trouble of installing the application. * PISD School Webpage Guidelines Guidelines for PISD not PTA, but important to understand especially "Links to "non-official" PISD related sites that are hosted on remote/external (non-district) web servers - Examples: athletic booster pages, PTA pages, teacher created classroom pages, etc." PISD school web sites can include the PTA web site's URL in text without a link like this: http://www.pta.org/. * Online resources for academic priced software: - Academic Superstore - JourneyED

Podcasting PTA Meetings

The Dallas Morning News shared Highland Park ISD PTA's podcasting experience. As a result, the webmaster contacted HPISD PTA and asked about the process for sharing audio recordings of PTA meetings. The following outlines the steps they use to record and publish audio. 1. They use iPods with MemoMics (lapel mic) and MicroMemos. The person speaking holds the iPod and wears the lapel mic while speaking. The lapel mic attaches to the MicroMemo. This provides good sound quality. It also uses software the record and play back audio from the meeting or lecture. 2. After the meeting, sync the iPod with iTunes, the free music player software from Apple. Edit the file in another application (they use Audacity) and convert it to MP3 since everyone can play MP3 on most players. 3. They have an Apple server that our tech department purchased this year. They load the files on that server. It has a website for each file that is loaded and they link that web URL on their school's website so parents can open the file on their computer of save the target on their computer for placing on their MP3 devices. Step 3 is a matter of uploading the file to a web server -- wherever the PTA hosts their Web site -- and linking to that file. Also, we strongly advise publishing audio from the meetings in a members' only area of a PTA Web site. Since TXPTX.org requires login to the members only area and changes yearly, you can use the same ID / password that appears on the back of the membership card. Most Web servers let you protect a directory. Create a "members" directory and protect that with the PTA ID / password. Another option: Recording meetings with a laptop An MP3 player involves more because they're not made to record. So if someone is willing to loan a laptop with recording software and the PTA invests in a decent microphone, it should be easier to record meetings using a laptop. Audacity (http://audacity.sourceforge.net/) is a free sound editor and recorder. It should work for recording and editing audio. No catch -- a benefit of open source software. http://www.giant-squid-audio-lab.com/gs/gs-micline1.html http://www.bhphotovideo.com/c/product/480163-REG/Zoom_H2_H2_Ultra_Portable_Digital.html#goto_itemInfo http://www.wikihow.com/Record-on-an-iPod-for-Free

Suggestions of items to include on a PTA web site

* Links to: - National PTA (www.pta.org) - Texas PTA (www.txpta.org) - Area 15 PTA (www.area15.txpta.net) - Plano Council PTA (www.planopta.org) - Plano ISD (www.pisd.edu) - School's Plano ISD site (see elementary or secondary list for school and its link) - Staff email addresses (go to elementary or secondary list and select your school, click *Staff Email* and use that URL) * Calendar (PTA and Plano ISD) * [PTA executive board roster with contact information](http://www.planopta.org/council_board_chair_info/) (non-password protected) * [About](http://www.planopta.org/about/) (info on the school and PTA) * [Newsletters](http://www.planopta.org/council_board_chair_info/newsletter/index.html#news) * [Forms](http://www.txpta.org/members/councilforms.html) * [Volunteer information](http://www.planopta.org/volunteers/volunteers/index.html) including opportunities, contact information, volunteer registration form and link to [PISD volunteer application](http://www.pisd.edu/about.us/partners.volunteers/volunteer.application.shtml). * Local PTA meetings dates, times and locations ([Here's Council's meeting list](http://www.planopta.org/calendar/calendar/index.html#meetings) * [PTA mission/vision/purposes](http://www.planopta.org/about/) * Local PTA goals * [Membership information](http://www.planopta.org/council_board_chair_info/membership/), membership form and membership contact (non-password protected) * [Reimbursement](http://www.planopta.org/members_only/training_materials/index.html) and [Plan of Work](http://www.area15.txpta.net/Forms/tabid/122/Default.aspx) forms (or link to these Texas PTA documents). * [Link to Texas PTA legislative web page and/or materials](http://txpta.org/members/legis.html). * [Texas PTA logo](http://txpta.org/members/images/Small-Logo.gif) on every page * [Council PTA legislative updates](http://www.planopta.org/council_board_chair_info/legislation/) * Photos of school, PTA board, etc. * Recognition of children, students, parents, teachers, administrators and PTAs such as [Life Membership honors](http://www.planopta.org/news/heroes_receive_texas_pta_life/index.html). * [President's letter](http://www.planopta.org/president/president/index.html#letter) * Links to [TEA](http://www.tea.state.tx.us/), [state legislature](http://www.txpta.org/legis-res-pos.html) or [community resources](http://www.plano.gov/Pages/default.aspx) * Practical Parenting classes ]]> Training Materials tag:www.planopta.org,2009://1.62 2009-09-28T17:56:05Z 2009-09-28T21:10:18Z Here are all the materials from the training, workshops and other relevant resources along with the links to the role’s specific page. General resources contains info that doesn’t apply to a specific role as it has information many can use.... Webmaster http://www.planopta.org General Training Information for Local Leaders [pdf file] Audit Committee * Audit Committee Handout [pdf file] Arts in Education * Arts in Education Home page * OCT Training 2-Page Summary, May 14, 2009 [pdf file] * OCT Training Presentation, May 14, 2009 [pdf file] * Chairman Training Presentation, August 27, 2009 [pdf file] * Chairman Training Presentation, August 27, 2009 [pptx file] * Potential Art Night Companies, September 2008 [pdf file] * 2009-2010 Reflections Student Entry Form [pdf file] * 2009-2010 Judging Tips [pdf file] * 2009-2010 Judging Form [pdf file] Cultural Diversity * Cultural Diversity page * Cultural Diversity Training and Resources Directory * Directory page * 2009-10 Directory/Yearbook Guideline Requirements [pdf file] * 2009-10 Creating Your School Directory Workshop [pdf file] * Directory Tips [pdf file] * Council Hints for Directory Chairs [pdf file] * Privacy Release Form [pdf file] * Directory External Bulk Mail Preparation [pdf file] * Directory Local Unit Sample [pdf file] * Directory and Yearbook Things to Know! [pdf file] * Class Lists/Directories/Yearbook Guidelines [pdf file] Environmental * Environmental page * Environmental Chairman Guide * Environmental Program Ideas * City of Plano PISD School Recycling Incentive Program 2007-2008 [pdf file] * School Recycling Incentive Program (RIP) 2007-2008 Award Application [pdf file] * City of Plano PISD School Recycling Incentive Program Letter of Intent 2007-2008 [pdf file] General: Useful tools and resources for everyone. * Convert PDF and other file formats: You may need to share files with others who don't have the application where the file originated. Since PDF has a free viewer, most people convert documents to this format. Here are several applications that will convert files to various formats: - Media Convert, a Web-based application - PDF Online, a Web-based application - PrimoPDF, a software application you download and install on your PC * Hints on Problem Solving [pdf file] * Questions a Board Should Ask Itself [pdf file] * Council Delegate's role [pdf file] * Council Delegate report form [doc file] * PTA After School Program Guidelines [pdf file] * PTA Usage of School Facilities [pdf file] * [Available PTA training](http://www.planopta.org/files/2009_TrainingList.pdf) along with information about the plan of work, recognition and communication. Historian * Historian page * Historian Letter [pdf file] * Plano Historian Scrapbook Guidelines [pdf file] Hospitality * Hospitality page * Hospitality Workshop Guidelines Legislative * Legislative page * Legislative Chair Guide [pdf file] Membership * Membership page * Membership chair training presentation (original PowerPoint) [ppt file] * Membership chair training presentation (Adobe pdf file) [pdf file] * Membership Question and Answers Newsletter * Newsletter page [pdf file] * Newsletter Chair Training Guide [pdf file] Parliamentarian * Parliamentarian page [pdf file] * Parliamentarian Training Guide [pdf file] * Texas PTA's Parliamentarian Page [requires ID and password to get in -- this is on the back of your PTA membership card] has information regarding the following: President * President page * Presidents Training [pdf file] * Finance for Presidents [pdf file] * Presidents General Responsibilities [pdf file] * Principals and Presidents [pdf file] * Local President's Checklist Programs * Programs page * Programs Training [pdf file] * Programs Handbook [pdf file] Publicity * Publicity page * Publicity Workshop [pdf file] * Publicity Guidelines [pdf file] SAGE * SAGE page * SAGE Training [pdf file] * SAGE Brochure [pdf file] * SAGE Goals [pdf file] * SAGE Organization Chart [pdf file] * SAGE Roles [pdf file] * SAGE Enrollment Form [doc file] Secretary * Secretary page * Secretary Training [pdf file] * Secretary Guide [pdf file] * Council/Local PTA/PTSA Ethics/Conflict of Interest Policy [.doc file] * PTA/PTSA Records Retention Policy [.doc file] Treasurer * Treasurer page * 2007-08 Treasurer Workshop Handout [pdf file] * Treasurer Training [pdf file] * Here are the Treasurer Audit Committee Checklist and Audit Committee Checklist [doc file] * Bad Check Letter - Standard letter for use in the event of checks return for insufficient funds. Can be modified. [doc] [pdf] * Check Request/Reimbursement Voucher [xls] [pdf] * Deposit Voucher [xls] [pdf] * Request for Change [xls] [pdf] Volunteers * Volunteers page * Volunteers Chairman Guide [PDF file] * Volunteer Training [pdf file] * Volunteer Application Process for PISD [pdf file] * Organization and Effective Volunteer Program [pdf file] * Volunteer Program Sample Plan of Work [pdf file] * PISD Volunteer Application [PISD Web site] * Volunteer Hours Report - Fall [doc file] * Volunteer Hours Report - Spring [doc file] Ways and Means * Ways and Means page * Ways and Means Training [PDF file] Webmasters * Webmasters page * Webmasters Training [PDF file] Youth Protection * Youth Protection page * Youth Protection Chair Guide [PDF file] * Youth Protection Packet with everything [PDF file] * Youth Protection Cyber-Smart Kids Guide [PDF file] * Youth Protection Drug Awareness Education Update [PDF file] * Youth Protection Internet Safety Update [PDF file] * Texas PTA Youth Protection Resources [PDF file] * Plano Police Report [PDF file] * Youth Protection Resource List [PDF file] * Youth Protection Volunteer Activities Example [PDF file] * Female Youth and STDs Report [PDF file] * McGruff House Application [PDF file in English] [espanol] * McGruff House Exemplary Schools Recognition [PDF file]]]> Membership tag:www.planopta.org,2007://1.63 2009-11-02T18:03:24Z 2009-11-02T18:04:45Z Webmaster http://www.planopta.org Contact chair: membership [at] planopta.org * Membership Q&A * Membership Awards * Texas PTA Member Benefit Card * Training and other materials [password protected area -- use ID and password on back of PTA card]

Life Member Celebration News

It's November! Now is the time to be selecting the members of your nominating committee. By the end of November, you should have the Award Nominees' names assembled for whom your committee will vote. The Life Member Celebration event is scheduled for Monday, February 22, 2010 at 6:30pm in the Plano West Senior High School Auditorium. There is no ticket price. Contact [Lisa Williams, Council Membership Chair](mailto:membership@planopta.org), for more information.

Membership Resources

Hi, I'm Lisa Williams, the PTA Council Membership chairman. I want to introduce myself before the school year gets along too fast. The Texas PTA Membership theme for 2009-10 is "Back to Basics" and we'll be playing with that theme throughout the year. Logos are available for downloading from the "Members Only" part of the Texas PTA web site. There are all sorts of membership resources available on the [Texas PTA website](http://www.txpta.org) and I know more are coming. If you haven't visited the site yet, go to www.txpta.org and sign in as a member. The username and password (found on your membership card). You'll find Membership Theme information under "Resources," and you can find Joining PTA information under "About PTA". You will see there is a lot of good information available! I know many of you have already been hard at work with your membership drives and I hope you are finding it easy to encourage parents (and high school students) to join. I've already heard from many of you, but if you have any membership questions, I'm happy to help you find the answers you need. If there is anything I can do to make your job a bit easier or help you find the information you need, please let me know. If you are able to attend any of the PTA Council regular meetings ([see schedule](http://www.planopta.org/calendar) on [www.planopta.org](http://www.planopta.org), please come say hello to me! I look forward to working with you this year! What Is PTA? Download a brochure printed with Six Languages * Cover and outside content [pdf file] * Inside content [pdf file] Chair Guide: For new and experienced Membership Chairmen, the best resource available is the Texas PTA Membership Chair Guide. This will cover all aspects of membership including campaigns, forms, suggestions, ideas, awards and more! Dues: Local units must remit council dues of $75 by October 15. You can download the dues form [pdf file].

Texas PTA Membership Benefit Card Info

Texas PTA member discount information has been collected and posted in the member-only section of the Texas PTA website. You'll need the username and password from the back of your PTA Membership Card or Texas PTA Member Benefits Card to access it. The 2008-2009 username and password will still work for another couple of months, then you must use the current passwords on this year's PTA cards. Each participating company has slightly different ways of accessing the PTA member benefits, but none of them work by showing your card. Here is the list of benefits. Beneficios de los miembros de la Asociación de Padres y Maestros en espanol [pdf].

Membership Awards Info

Texas PTA eliminated two membership awards a couple of years ago- the Hand-in-Hand and the 100% Participation Award, but the Plano Council of PTAs will be giving these awards again to those locals who earn them. We know y'all have been working hard to INCREASE your PTA membership and we want to encourage you to continue! Both the Hand-in-Hand award and the 100% Participation award are awesome goals, and will help you build a stronger, more vibrant PTA at your school. AND because I have heard such great ideas about how you are conducting your membership drives this year, we've also added an award called... Creative Membership Campaign. So, please continue your wonderful efforts to gather those PTA members and community members. The award entry form will be available in the fall. Thank you for your commitment to our community and your school's success! If you have any questions, please let me know.

Membership Q&A

How can you determine who is a Community Member of PTA, rather than a Faculty Member? Texas PTA defines faculty as principals, assistant principals, teachers, counselors, and aides employed at the campus full time. To apply for the Golden Apple, you will need 100% of your school faculty as PTA members on your membership list, with dues paid and sent to Texas PTA by October 15. The award application will also need to be sent by October 15. How would you classify a grandparent - a regular PTA member or a community member? That is a great question! It depends! If the grandparent is the primary caregiver, they should be a regular member. They would probably be interested in the newsletter and directory, etc.. If the grandparent is not the primary caregiver, but is in support of the local school, a community membership would probably meet his or her needs. Each local PTA will have different standing rules that will dictate the differences in regular and community memberships. Generally, most PTAs don't give a directory to community members but do give them to regular members. I don't think our PTA got an invoice from Plano PTA for Council dues. Can I get another copy? I don't think our PTA got an invoice from Plano PTA for Council dues. Can I get another copy? Where do I send the check for Council dues? What is the deadline? Invoices were sent in the first week of school to each local PTA. You can print out copies on the Plano PTA website at www.planopta.org, then click on Board and Chair information, then click on Membership. Scroll down to the topic of Membership and you will see the link to download a new form. According to local by-laws, your Council dues are payable no later than 10/15. Please send your check to: Plano ISD Council of PTAs
c/o Lisa Williams
2700 W. 15th Street
Plano, TX 75024 I'm totally lost! I have never been the Membership Chairman and I was unable to come to any of the training. What should I do? The first stop you should make on your membership journey is the Plano PTA website at www.planopta.org, then click on Board and Chair information, then click on Membership. Scroll down through the information and take a few minutes to go through the PowerPoint from our fall coffee and training. Also, a great resource is the Membership Chairman Guide from Texas PTA. You can download a FREE copy. You will see a link to it from the membership page on the Plano PTA website. I have some parents and teachers that have filled out the PTA member forms and are requesting some of the free items from the PTA national office. How do I go about getting those? Some PTAs use the membership form provided by National PTA. On the bottom of this form is a list of things that National PTA provides to members, like resources, training and email updates about important issues and news. To sign up for the email updates (there are several topical email newsletters), go to the [National PTA website](http://www.pta.org) at [www.pta.org](http://www.pta.org). All the other items are also available on the National PTA website, including training. How much are PTA dues? There are several kinds of dues. The local membership rate is comprised of the National dues ($1.75/per person), plus the Texas dues ($2.25/per person), plus the local portion (this is set by the by-laws of the local campus). This year our Texas PTA State dues went up by a dollar (as of July 1st, 2009). All by-laws were automatically updated with this change. That means you are now charging $1 more for your dues this year. If last year you charged $20, this year you'll charge $21. Additionally, each local PTA pays annual dues of $75.00 to Plano ISD Council of PTAs. Please keep in mind that if a PTA member decides to claim his/her Texas Life PTA status at any one given school, they are only reducing their dues by the Texas dues of $2.25. They must still pay the National dues and your Local dues to be a PTA member with local voting rights in our community. Please be on the look out for the PTA Council dues form, which will be inter-office mailed to your school's office attention PTA Membership Chair. What are benefit cards? I've been in PTA a long time and I've never heard of them! Is it the same as the membership card? Texas PTA has worked hard to show its members that there are MANY benefits to being in PTA. The benefit card lists many of the vendors that offer a discount to PTA members, including Sea World. To access the benefits, you must go on the Texas PTA website (www.txpta.org) and sign in as a member. The user name and password are on the back of the PTA membership benefit card. There is no longer a Benefit card per se; however, the benefits are listed on the Texas PTA website. Did I miss the Early Bird Award? The Early Bird award is for local PTAs that have submitted a membership list and paid dues for at least 75% of the number of members they had on record on March 15, postmarked by September 30th. This is an automatic award, so there is no form to fill out. Where do we get the Membership Cards? The cards come from Texas PTA, if you are missing them, please contact your President to be sure first, then contact Texas PTA. Some unit's cards are still in Austin because they needed a piece of information before they would release the cards. To get those, please call 1-800-TALK-PTA. How can you check if someone is a Texas Life Member? Each local PTA should have a list of the people to whom they have awarded a Texas Life Membership. I have an inexact, but fairly comprehensive Plano ISD Council of PTAs list of Texas Life Members. Originally, I was planning to post the list on the Plano PTA website. Because of privacy considerations, I will email you the list of recipients awarded from school if you request it from me. If you are in a secondary school and would like to check if someone from one of the feeder schools has received the award, please email me or contact the Texas PTA office, which maintains the comprehensive list (1-800-TALK-PTA). Once I have completed the membership list, what do I do? Make a copy for your Secretary, Treasurer, President and your procedure book. Then send your original or a copy to Texas PTA along with your dues check. If the check is sizable, please send it return receipt requested, certified mail. Our PTA is refining our budget. Can you tell me what to expect with Life Member Banquet? This year, 2009-2010, we have decided to scale back the banquet and make it an awards ceremony. We have chosen Plano West Auditorium as the venue and we will still have all of the lovely recipients cross the stage and receive their award but will no longer have a dinner in conjunction with the evening. This should cut the time down as well as the expense. But you will still want to budget for the LM certificates ($35) and LM pinettes ($15) and/or Extended Service certificates ($50) and ES pinettes ($40) from Texas PTA. These can be ordered off the [Texas PTA website](http://www.txpta.org), but you should make sure to do this at least one to two months in advance. Most PTAs hand out the awards and pins out at the banquet. At our middle school registration, we had someone say they were already a Life Member, but that it was awarded at the elementary school. Can they get the Life Member discount at both schools? You can take the Life Membership at whichever school the member chooses, but it can only be taken at one school. Remember, they have been awarded a Life Membership from The Texas PTA but not likely from the National PTA or from your local unit. Life members still must pay those dues any subsequent dues from another school. I have not ordered membership envelopes for our PTA. Is that necessary? No, the envelopes are just one way to collect dues. Some PTAs like them because it is easy for members to fill out the envelope and stick a check inside. You can use whatever method works best on your campus. If you want to order the envelopes, you can do that on the Texas PTA website ([www.txpta.org](http://www.txpta.org)). How do I know what our PTA number is? Please contact your president for this information. If you still can't get it or are unsure, please email me. I am unsure of the number of PTA members we had last year. How can I find out? You should have this information in the binder that was passed on to you, but if you don't, please email me. Have an unanswered question? Email membership@planopta.org
Lisa Williams, Membership VP, Plano ISD Council of PTAs ]]> Texas PTA 2010 - 2012 Slate Announced tag:www.planopta.org,2009://1.118 2009-11-02T18:43:00Z 2009-11-02T18:50:44Z The Texas PTA nominating committee announced the following slate of officers for 2010 - 2012 on Saturday, October 31:... Webmaster http://www.planopta.org TX_PTA_2010_2012_Slate.jpg]]> Plano PTA Directory tag:www.planopta.org,2009://1.4 2009-11-11T15:22:16Z 2009-12-07T19:46:01Z Webmaster http://www.planopta.org Early Childhood Schools (PreK / PPCD) | Beaty   | Far North Dallas   | Isaacs    | Pearson |

Elementary Schools (Grades K - 5)

| Aldridge | Andrews   | Barksdale | Barron   | Bethany | | Beverly | Boggess | Brinker | Carlisle | Centennial   | | Christie | Daffron | Davis | Dooley | Forman | | Gulledge | Haggar | Harrington   | Haun | Hedgcoxe | | Hickey | Hightower   | Huffman | Hughston | Hunt | | Jackson | Mathews | McCall | Meadows   | Memorial | | Mendenhall   | Miller | Mitchell | Rasor | Saigling | | Schell | Shepard | Sigler | Skaggs | Stinson | | Thomas | Weatherford   | Wells | Wyatt |

Middle Schools (Grades 6 - 8)

| Armstrong     | Bowman    | Carpenter    | Frankford    | Haggard | | Hendrick | Murphy | Renner | Rice | Robinson | | Schimelpfenig    | Wilson |

High Schools (Grades 9 - 10)

| Clark     | Jasper     | Shepton     | Vines     | Williams |

Senior High Schools (Grades 11 - 12)

| Plano East     | Plano Senior     | Plano West | Please submit PTA web site address changes to webmaster [at] planopta.org]]> Awards Information and Applications tag:www.planopta.org,2007://1.20 2009-11-30T18:30:30Z 2009-11-30T18:33:24Z Download the Plano ISD Council of PTAs Outstanding PTA Application due March 23, 2010 [pdf file] Texas Local PTA Awards Information and Applications. The page requires the ID and password that appears on the back of your PTA membership card.... Webmaster http://www.planopta.org Texas Local PTA Awards Information and Applications. The page requires the ID and password that appears on the back of your PTA membership card. Texas PTA Membership Awards Information and Applications. The page requires the ID and password that appears on the back of your PTA membership card. National PTA Awards Information and Applications. The page requires the ID and password that appears on the back of your PTA membership card.

2008-2009 Texas PTA Award-Winning Units

[Plano ISD Council of PTAs awards](http://planopta.org/files/2009_Council_Awards.pdf) given in May 2009. Congratulations to all the winners!]]> Scholarship Opportunities tag:www.planopta.org,2006://1.34 2010-01-07T17:37:37Z 2010-01-07T17:48:22Z The AXA Achievement Community Scholarship program offers $2,000 college scholarships to high school seniors who have demonstrated outstanding achievement in their activities in school, the community or the workplace. The scholarships are sponsored by the AXA Foundation, the philanthropic... Webmaster http://www.planopta.org
  • Applicants must be United States citizens or legal residents, be current high school seniors who plan to enroll full-time in an accredited two-year or four-year college or university in the United States by fall 2010, be ambitious and motivated, as evidenced by outstanding achievement in school, community, or work activities, and be recommended by an unrelated adult who can attest to the student's achievement.
  • More than 300 students, to be known as AXA Achievers, will be selected to receive a $2,000 award. An AXA Achievementsm Community Scholarship must be used for education-related expenses for the 2010-2011 academic year. For more information about all AXA Achievement Scholarships, see these links:
  • TXLA AXA Achievement Community Scholarship Information and Application
  • Community Postcard (for distribution)
  • AXA Scholarship Informational Brochure * **The DFW International Community Alliance** has a Guide to Scholarships for New Americans and Minority Students on their website, listing over 100 opportunities. To view the scholarship listing, go to www.dfwinternational.org and click on Resource Center: Reports and Guides. * **Mike Mansfield Fellowship** is an intensive two-year professional development program that's open to U.S. federal government employees with an interest in the U.S.-Japan relationship. Fellows spend a year in Japanese language and area studies training in Washington, D.C., followed by a year working in Japanese government or ministry offices. For more information, visit the Web site. * **Donald Keene Center of Japanese Culture** sponsors several scholarships. For more visit the Web site * **The Duck Brand Duct Tape Stuck on Prom Contest** is open to students age 14 years or older who are attending a high school prom in the spring. US citizenship is required. Entrants must enter as a couple (two individuals) and attend a high school prom wearing complete attire or accessories made from duct tape. Visit The Duck Tape contest web site for details. * **Tall Clubs International (TCI)** offers a $1,000 scholarship for tall people, the Kae Sumner Einfeldt Scholarship. Individual chapters may also offer local awards. Women who are at least 5'10" and men who are at least 6'2" are eligible for the award. Candidates must be under 21 years old and plan to attend college in the fall. Visit the Web site * **The David Letterman Scholarship** was established by David Letterman in 1985 to provide scholarships for telecommunications students at Ball State University. The awards are intended for average students who nevertheless have a creative mind. Winners are selected primarily based on creativity. Visit the Web site for details.]]> Reflections Program - Council Results Are In! tag:www.planopta.org,2010://1.120 2010-01-11T15:42:17Z 2010-01-12T21:49:19Z We had a tremendous response to the Reflections Program this year. Fifty-six Plano schools participated in this year’s program with 2,697 entries being received. On December 9th, 562 entries that advanced to the Council level were judged. The distribution of... Webmaster http://www.planopta.org Award of Excellence = 43
    Award of Merit = 102
    Honorable Mention = 153
    Total Awards = 355
    The complete list of award recipients, by school and award category can be found [here](http://www.planopta.org/training/training_materials/Arts_In_Ed_Plano_ISD_awards_list.pdf). *You will need the user name and password from the back of your PTA membership card to access the list.* There will be an Awards Reception for the award recipients and their families on the evening of Wednesday, April 14th at Sockwell Center, where we will present the students with their Council Award ribbons.]]>     Arts in Education tag:www.planopta.org,2010://1.17 2010-01-12T16:07:23Z 2010-01-12T21:55:45Z Contact chair: artsineducation [at] planopta.org Training materials and other resources [password protected area — use ID and password on back of PTA card] Council Reflections Information Council Judging Results Report from National PTA Texas PTA Arts in Education Program Page... Webmaster http://www.planopta.org Contact chair: artsineducation [at] planopta.org - Training materials and other resources [password protected area -- use ID and password on back of PTA card] - [Council Reflections Information](#council) - [Council Judging Results](#results) - [Report from National PTA](#national) - [Texas PTA Arts in Education Program Page](http://www.txpta.org/programs/reflections/)

    Council Reflections Information

    The 2009-2010 theme is "Beauty is..." All Reflections forms, rules, logos and other resources are available from the Texas PTA Reflections page. Remember that Reflections is a Program and not a competition. For this reason we are all strongly urged to use the same Award Levels: * Award of Excellence -- approx the top 20% of your entries that are forwarded on to the next level of judging * Award of Merit -- approx the 2nd 20% of your entries * Honorable Mention -- approx the 3rd 20-30% of your entries * Participation Award -- the rest of your entries Correct number of entries allowed per age group/division: You are allowed to send up to 20% of your total number of entries to the Council level judging regardless of age group or division. If you do not have entries in one area you may send more in another. As long as you do not send more than 20% of your TOTAL entries based on the number that you complete on your 'Participation Form'. Please only send QUALITY works rather than quantity. State PTA has pre-set ALL deadlines this year to avoid the hundreds of questions that they receive from parents every year. However, the local and council deadlines are NOT set in stone -- you are able to set you own deadline but it must be prior to the one set by State. These are ESTIMATE dates so you can plan over the summer and complete your Plan of Work. • Entries are due to the local campus in late October for local judging. • Local Master Spreadsheet for advancing entries should be emailed to Council Chairman by November 13, 2009. • Advancing entries are due to Council on Tuesday, December 8 2009 at Sockwell Center. • Council judging occurs on Wednesday, December 9, 2009. • Local chairmen pick up entries that are not advancing to State on Thursday, December 10, 2009 at Sockwell Center. • Entries advancing from Council to State are due in Austin on January 15, 2010. Completing Entry Forms At the bottom of the entry form the following information is requested: Local PTA good standing status and Membership dues date paid. Please ensure that all this information is completed. If your PTA has not yet paid their membership dues please put the date that they will be paid. Good standing is having paid your dues, so mark this box with a YES. This information needs to be completed otherwise if State sees blanks it is possible that the entry will be disqualified. There is no time for your Council Chairman to locate this information so please ensure that it is completed before you send them on. All entries forwarded to Council must have one of the following colored dots to signify age/division * PreK - 2nd Grade (Primary): Red Dot * Grade 3-5 (Intermediate): Blue Dot * Grades 6-8 (Middle School): Yellow Dot * Grades 9-12 (High School):Green Dot Music/Dance Choreography/Film/Video: place dot on the front of the envelope not the entry form side Literature entries: place the dot on the front (outside) of the folder not the entry form side Visual Arts/Photography: place dot on the BACK of the entry Size / thickness / length parameters * Visual Art may not exceed 24 inches by 30 inches, including a mat, and be no more than 3/8 inch thick * Photography: minimum 8"x10", maximum 11"x14" * Literature: not to exceed 8 1/2" x 11" and must not exceed 2,000 words • Music Composition: may not exceed 5 minutes • Film Production: may not exceed 5 minutes • Dance Choreography: may not exceed 3 minutes. The artist's statement must be at the beginning of the recording. (It is not included in the 3 minutes.) Correct number of copies of entries is included: * Literature: 2 copies, 1 attached to the inside back of the folder & 1 left loose inside the folder * Music: 2 copies of tape/CD and notation (if required), both inside a large envelope * Dance Choreography: 2 copies of CD or DVD in a plastic or cardboard container then placed in a large envelope *Film/Video Production: 2 copies of CD or DVD in a plastic or cardboard container then placed in a large envelope Entry form completely filled out Do not seal the open end of sheet protectors containing entry forms. 2 hard copies of your Master Spreadsheet (entries advancing to Council ONLY) including" * Student's Name, first and last * Title of work * Group by age group and by arts category (ie Primary-Literature, Primary-Visual Arts, Senior-Music etc) * Make sure your name and your school name are on the list Email this master list to your Council Chairman by the date that they specify so that they can prepare adequately for their judging. Participation Form completed. 2 copies This standard PTA form tallies your totals for each category and age group or division -- please check the sample you were provided with and ensure that this is completely filled out before forwarding to your Council. Verify that you are advancing no more than 20% of your total entries to Council. Tri-fold Brochure State PTA has a color tri-fold brochure that is available in both English or Spanish that can be used to help promote the Reflections Program -- they are limited so local units are urged to order early - email Carrie Mays at programs@txpta.org or call 1-800-825-5782 ext. 215. Traveling Exhibit State PTA would like everyone to know that there is traveling exhibit of Reflections Artwork that is available to help promote the program. You will be shipped approx 25 pieces of artwork from previous years and will be able to keep it for 2 school weeks. The only cost involved is approx $30 to ship it to the next location. To schedule the exhibit for your school or Council email Carrie Mays at programs@txpta.org or call 1-800-825-5782 ext. 215.

    2009-2010 Council Judging Results

    We've had a tremendous response to the Reflections Program this year. Fifty-six Plano schools participated this year and they received and judged 2,697 entries! They advanced 562 entries for Council level judging, which occurred on December, 9, 2009. The Council award results are as follows:

    Award of Excellence advancing to State judging 57
    Award of Excellence 43
    Award of Merit 102
    Honorable Mention 153
    Total Awards 355

    For a complete listing of Plano award recipients by school, please click on the link at the end of this article. State judging will take place in Austin in late January or early February. Results are expected to be available in March. An Awards Ceremony will be held on Wednesday, April 14, 2010 at Sockwell Center for student award recipients and their families. Thank you to all of the students who participated and to all of the parents who encouraged them to express themselves through the arts. [2009-2010 Reflections Results](http://www.planopta.org/training/training_materials/Arts_In_Ed_Plano_ISD_awards_list.pdf) [Adobe Acrobat .pdf file] *You will need the user name and password from your PTA membership card to access this file.*

    Students Nationally Recognized for Arts Achievement

    More than half-a-million kids participate in PTA national arts program CHICAGO (May 15, 2009) -- As arts programs disappear from schools nationwide every year, hundreds of thousands of children have less and less ways to creatively express themselves. That's why the National Parent Teacher Association (PTA) is proud to announce this year's national award recipients of PTA's Reflections Program. The nearly 40-year-old arts based program -- themed this year as "Wow!" -- provides opportunities for kids to receive recognition for their artistic efforts and expressions. PTA is recognizing six students as recipients of PTA's Reflections Program Outstanding Interpretation Award -- the best-of-the-best in six arts categories. The six students will be recognized during a special ceremony at the 113th Annual PTA National Convention and Exhibition (June 26-June 29) in Ft. Lauderdale, Fla. They also will receive cash awards of $800 and cash awards of $200 will go to their local PTAs. The organization will also recognize 71 students with Awards of Excellence and 119 students with Awards of Merit across four grade divisions -- primary, intermediate, middle/junior, and senior -- and six arts categories -- dance choreography, film/video production, literature, musical composition, photography, and the visual arts. All the national award-winning pieces will be featured in a virtual gallery in July; however, the complete list of winners is currently available on [PTA's website](http://www.pta.org/reflectionswinners). Professionals from well-respected institutions, including the National Assembly of States Arts Agencies, National Center for Missing and Exploited Children, Cable in the Classroom, College of Arts and Sciences, DC Youth Orchestra, The Dance Institute of Washington, Wolftrap Foundation for the Performing Arts, and National Children's Museum, volunteered to judge close to 1,500 art pieces which reached the national level of judging.]]>     Forms tag:www.planopta.org,2009://1.108 2010-01-18T17:35:38Z 2010-01-18T17:48:49Z Webmaster http://www.planopta.org [Vendor & Programs Fair 2010](http://www.planopta.org/council_board_chair_info/ways_means/#vendor) [Council Delegate report form](http://www.planopta.org/files/council_delegate_report_form.doc) [doc file] [Membership Forms](http://www.planopta.org/membership/membership/) [PTA Privacy Release Form and Guidelines](http://www.planopta.org/news/pta_privacy_release_form_and_g/) [Plano ISD Council of PTAs Outstanding PTA Application](http://www.planopta.org/news/awards/) [Reflections Forms](http://www.planopta.org/reflections/arts_in_education/) [SAGE Enrollment Form](http://planopta.org/files/SAGEEnrollment.doc) [doc file] [Event Planning Tips from Murphy MS PTA](http://www.planopta.org/forms/Event_Planning_Tips_from_Murphy_PTA.pdf) [pdf file] [Treasurer Forms](http://www.planopta.org/members_only/training_materials/index.html) [requires ID and password from back of PTA membership card] Ways and Means tag:www.planopta.org,2008://1.26 2010-01-18T17:42:01Z 2010-01-18T17:50:35Z Contact chair: waysandmeans [at] planopta.org Training and other materials [password protected area — use ID and password on back of PTA card] National PTA Fundraising information Auction sites for nonprofits: You can reach many outside of your community. www.auctionpay.com www.cmarket.com... Webmaster http://www.planopta.org Contact chair: waysandmeans [at] planopta.org * Training and other materials [password protected area -- use ID and password on back of PTA card] * National PTA Fundraising information * Auction sites for nonprofits: You can reach many outside of your community. - [www.auctionpay.com](http://www.auctionpay.com) - [www.cmarket.com](http://www.auctionpay.com)

    Vendor & Programs Fair

    [Vendor Invitation](http://www.planopta.org/forms/Vendor_Fair_1020_Fax_Invite_Ltr_to_Vendors.pdf) [pdf file] [PTA Exhibit Policies and Restrictions; Directions and Accommodation Options](http://www.planopta.org/forms/Vendor_Fair_Policy_Hotel_Directions_2010.pdf) [pdf file] [Vendor and Program Fair Application](http://www.planopta.org/forms/Vendor_Fair_Application_2010_Vendors.pdf) [pdf file] Vendor Fair Information and Testimonials This fair is for fundraising, service, and program vendors and is advertised to all the PTAs, PTOs, Booster Clubs, Scouting, sport, and church organizations in the Plano area along with school districts in Allen, McKinney, Frisco, etc. Boy Scouts, Girl Scouts, nonprofits, PTAs, the whole gamut is welcome at the fair to get fresh ideas for the upcoming school year from the two gyms filled with vendors. Vendors offer fundraising ideas, programs, and services. Vendors in attendance at past Fairs said that Plano ISD Council of PTAs knows how to do it right. Several said that Plano knows how to put on a great fair and they wish the other fairs were as good as ours. They all said they'd be back. Several vendors said they appreciated the way Plano PTA treated them. "That [Plano PTA Vendor Fair] was one of the best fairs I have done as far as traffic is concerned." -- Larry Wallace, Director of Fundraising Sales for Wrap It Up! "Thanks for getting the message to the decision-makers at the local schools." "You guys already have great attendance for a vendor fair. I say keep up what you are doing." "This is a great event - look forward to it every year!" "Always my favorite vendor fair! You are all awesome!!!" Attendees were blown away by the resources and ideas that received from the fair. "I was so impressed and had no idea how many great resources there were for us." -- incoming president at an elementary school PTA.]]>     SAGE tag:www.planopta.org,2009://1.28 2010-01-19T22:55:17Z 2010-01-19T22:56:20Z Contact chair: sage [at] planopta.org Training materials and other resources [password protected area — use ID and password on back of PTA card] SAGE Resources: SAGE web site SAGE’s Mission About SAGE Live the Dream Expo 2010 - Spanish Flyer... Webmaster http://www.planopta.org Contact chair: sage [at] planopta.org * Training materials and other resources [password protected area -- use ID and password on back of PTA card] SAGE Resources: * [SAGE web site ](http://planopta.org/SAGE_Resource/) * [SAGE's Mission](http://www.planopta.org/sage/sage/Sage Mission Letter_doc.pdf) * [About SAGE](http://www.planopta.org/sage/sage/FINALSagebrochure2RV85.pdf) * [Live the Dream Expo 2010 - Spanish Flyer](http://www.planopta.org/sage/EXPO-10_flier-Spanish.pdf) * [ABC Childcare Short Form](http://www.planopta.org/sage/ARC_Childcare_Short_Form.pdf) * [SAGE Learning Rx Parent Presentation](http://www.planopta.org//sage/SAGE Learning Rx Parent Presentation.pdf) * [SAGE Enrollment Form](http://www.planopta.org/sage/sage/Sage ENROLLMENT FORM 2009_doc.pdf) ]]> Meet & Greet for Education Candidates tag:www.planopta.org,2010://1.122 2010-01-31T23:38:48Z 2010-01-31T23:43:31Z Tuesday, February 16th, 2010 6 p.m. - 8 p.m. (you are welcome to come & go) 7 p.m. - 3 minute candidate speeches SMU in Plano Building 3 in the Great Room 5232 Tennyson Parkway, Plano 75024 Come meet... Webmaster http://www.planopta.org Tuesday, February 16th, 2010
    6 p.m. - 8 p.m. (you are welcome to come & go)
    7 p.m. - 3 minute candidate speeches
    SMU in Plano
    Building 3 in the Great Room
    5232 Tennyson Parkway, Plano 75024

    Come meet and talk informally with candidates that will affect education in our community and state. This is your chance to get to know the candidates, ask questions and share your concerns and priorities with future decision makers. Come make your voice heard! [Click here to view the flyer](http://www.planopta.org/news/Meet_and_greet_candidates/educationcandidatesmeetandgreettues.pdf). ]]>