WAKE COUNTY PTA COUNCIL
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WCPTA NEWS


December News

12/7/2020

 

President's Message

Holiday greetings to you!
As we are drawing to the close of 2020, there is so much to reflect on. Much of it hasn’t been very positive - it’s been a difficult year, to say the least! I have something to share with you, though, that will hopefully  peak your curiosity and lift your spirits…
A couple of weeks ago a gentleman in Raleigh contacted me saying that he had been cleaning out a relative’s attic and had come across PTA record books from the old Murphy School in Raleigh. The Murphy School was built in 1916 and is still standing today on Person Street, now housing senior apartments. The books contained the PTA secretary’s minutes from 1919-1940, and he wondered if Wake PTA Council would like to have them. I met this gentleman to pick up the books, and spent much of the next few days reading through them.


What I found myself looking at was a one hundred year old record of one of the very first PTAs in North Carolina, and a fascinating piece of Wake County history! The first pages spelled out the Murphy School PTA’s bylaws, their newly elected officers, and plans they had to support the school community that year. It was a snapshot in time of dedicated and concerned parents going about the business of PTA, just as we are still doing today.  There were even some familiar names among those pages - Miss Conn was the school’s principal, and Miss Lacy was one of its teachers - women who impacted public education in our county and later had schools named for them.


Some topics recorded in the minutes were strikingly resonating. At one meeting in 1920, the head of the Wake County Health Department spoke to the PTA about the importance of keeping children safe from highly contagious diseases, and how parents and teachers should report cases and isolate themselves if they became sick (this was not long after the Spanish Influenza epidemic of 1918). How much time have we spent talking about the very same thing?? Even what must have seemed mundane to these parents in 1919 is familiar to a present-day PTA leader; raising funds for playground equipment, ensuring all children had access to a healthy lunch, granting the principal’s request for money to buy more chairs for the cafeteria.




One particular note recorded in the minutes landed close to home for me, personally. It spoke of the meeting being concluded successfully and then members spending time sharing refreshments so everyone could get acquainted with one another. How many connections and friendships have we made through PTA while serving snacks at a hospitality table, or setting up booths for a carnival, or pouring over a budget, or working the cash register at a book fair? I have without a doubt found some of my best friends through serving together on PTA.
I am sharing this story with you because it’s an interesting bit of history. But I also hope that you will take a minute here at the end of the year to pause and reflect on your role as a PTA leader. You have stepped up to be part of something much bigger than yourself - just as parents have been stepping up for 100 years before you. Yes, this year has been frustrating, and at times you’ve wanted to pull your hair out. We are tired of Zoom meetings, it’s challenging to keep families engaged or get them to volunteer, we are worried about our students and teachers, and we want to get back to our normal routine. Sometimes - especially this year - PTA work can be a bit exhausting. Just for a moment, though, please feel the tie that connects you 100 years back through time to generations of past PTA leaders that cared enough about their children and their school communities to give of their time and service. You are doing good work. Thank you.
(And take good minutes at your meetings, because who knows who might be reading them 100 years from now!)


With warmest wishes,
Amy


*We are researching the best place for these record books to ultimately land so that they can be properly archived and available for viewing as important historical documents.  We will let you know when final decisions are made!

NC Families for Testing Reform

Wednesday, Dec 9 7-8pm: STOP Mandatory In-Person Standardized Testing During COVID-19
Are you interested in learning more about what alternatives you have if you do not want to send your child to school for face-to-face testing?

NC Families for School Testing Reform is hosting a virtual workshop on Wednesday December 9 at 7pm.
You will hear hear from parents, students, and educators regarding mandatory in-person standardized tests during the pandemic, and what you can do about it. Information about options will be offered to parents and students facing these in-person exams.
To register please follow this link, tinyurl.com/HighStakesNC and see the FaceBook event page for more details.
NC Families for School Testing Reform is a parent led advocacy group focused on fewer
tests, fairer tests, and fruitful tests. https://nctestingreform.org/


Health and Wellness

National PTA is Dedicated to Improving the Health and Wellness of Families
 
The National PTA's Healthy Lifestyles program offers educational resources and engagement opportunities that inform students and families on ways to make better-informed health decisions.
  • All foods, beverages and snacks sold or served meet National School Nutrition Standards
  • All students have opportunities to be physically active for at least 60 minutes on a regular basis
  • All students have access to regular physical education
  • District wide wellness policies are developed, implemented and evaluated with input from students, parents, staff and interested community members

Check out the National PTA's Website to learn more. https://www.pta.org/home/programs/Healthy-Lifestyles
 
Download the Healthy Lifestyles Calendar (2020-21)
 
Download Healthy Lifestyles Calendar (2020-2021) to learn ways you can support your school and families in making healthy decisions.
 
 
Dec 1 - 7: National Handwashing Awareness Week
 
Check out this video from the Poe Center for Health Education on proper handwashing.  Feel free to share via email and social media with your families. 
 
Proper Handwashing (ENGLISH):  https://youtu.be/xITIASd4CG8
Lavado Correcto De Las Manos (SPANISH): https://youtu.be/XcMSvqlIxig
 
 
Lock Your Meds
  
For more information on how to store, monitor, and dispose of medications safely, visit https://www.poehealth.org/medicationsafety/.  Presentations and resources are available including lock boxes and medication disposal kits.
 

Wake County PTA Council Q&A Sessions


Take Aways from Our November Sessions

Are Gift Cards Allowed?
  • The IRS considers gift cards cash, and when gift cards are given to volunteers, the IRS considers them compensation. Below are some guidelines for offering gift cards as appreciation gifts.
  • Never give a gift card that has been purchased with PTA funds to a member of the board of directors.
  • While it’s preferred that PTAs show appreciation in other ways, gift cards for staff or teacher appreciation are generally allowed if the amount is insubstantial (under $25) and the funds are part of a member-approved budget line item for staff appreciation.
  • Make sure staff and teacher appreciation is outlined in your PTA’s standing rules, keep gift card records.


Remember:  PTA funds must be spent on PTA purposes. Check to make sure that new activities are aligned with the PTA’s purposes and are a part of your approved budget.


What Fundraisers Are You Doing This Year?
  • Go, Play, Save
  • Read-a-thon
  • Memberhub Give backs
  • R City Rocks
  • Lowes Grants
​Remember: When planning the year's activities, (it is suggested) PTAs should use the 3-to-1 rule. For every fundraising activity, there should be at least three non-fundraising projects aimed at helping parents or children or advocating for school improvements. Collaborate with your principal and determine what help is needed, then you can figure out how to go about supporting the effort financially.
​
Next Session: December 14 at 7:30pm
How is Your PTA Board Doing?
Register Today!

Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion

​The Wake PTA Council DEI committee provides support through coaching, education, resources, and a place for local units to come together to brainstorm and share best practices. We will be hosting a series of monthly workshops to give local PTA DEI leaders a forum to receive the support mentioned above.
 
Please use the Google Form to sign-up for our monthly workshops. Wake PTA Diversity, Equity & Inclusion (DEI) Committee Workshop Series 2020-21  A Google Meet link will be sent out a couple of days prior to the meeting.
 
If your local PTA DEI chair and/ or PTA Leadership has not yet signed up to be included in our communications, please fill out the following Google Form: Wake and Local PTA DEI Committee Sign-up Form
 
If you have any questions, please reach out to Stephanie Mitchell at mitchellsteph2011@gmail.com .

Reflections 2020-21: I Matter Because

All Reflections entries have been submitted.  We had a total of 458 entries this year! We will judge these entries during December and have the results by January 5.
Thank you to everyone who participated!
If you have questions, please  contact Reflections chair, Ashley Keener at reflections@wakepta.org.

We Need You!

The Wake County PTA Council is looking for volunteers for these committees:
  • Volunteer Recognition -- As we know, volunteers are the heart of the PTA. All our volunteers work so hard and deserve to be recognized.  In a typical year, we recognize volunteers at our Night of Stars event in the spring.  We are looking for someone to coordinate this event (if we have it in person) and to generate other ideas on how we can celebrate our amazing volunteers!
  • Grants -- Do you have experience in grant writing?  Are you interested in helping local PTAs know about and apply for grants?  Then this position is for you!  If you are new to grant writing, finding out about grants and submitting a grant proposal can be overwhelming.  We are looking for experienced volunteers who are willing to help and also research and submit  grants for Wake County PTA Council.
If you are interested in either of these committees (either as a leader or member), contact Amy Jones, Wake County PTA President.

Fri-YAY Shout Out!

Do you know of a Wake County PTA that is doing something amazing? Let us know!
Please fill out this form, and include a photo if possible.
PTA leaders - don't be afraid to toot your own horn! We will give shout-outs on social media on Fridays to celebrate the difference PTAs are making in our schools. ** Please include elementary, middle or high school since there are several schools with the same name!
For examples of previous shout outs, check out the Shout Out page on the Wake County PTA website.

MemberHub Givebacks

The MemberHub Givebacks program is an easy way to raise money for your PTA.  Simply add offers from businesses to your e-store in MemberHub and your PTA gets up to 20% donated back on every purchase.
This program is automatically included in your MemberHub store, so it is easy to activate and make it easy for parents to get great deals.
For more information, see MemberHub Givebacks.

Wake County Public Schools

Food Distribution: Every Meal Matters
Meals are free for ALL students and each day one lunch and one breakfast may be picked up.  Participation is extremely beneficial for CNS as they do not receive funding and are only reimbursed for meals that are picked up.  This means participation mutually benefits those picking up the meals and CNS.
  • What You Need to Know About Changes to Food Distribution
  • School Meals 2020-21




Immunizations and Health Assessment Records Are Due!
Reminder: Immunization and Health Assessment Records Grace Period Ends Dec. 31
After multiple extensions, Tuesday Dec. 1 was the state deadline for students to submit a certification of immunization and a school health assessment. The 30-day grace period will end December 30, 2020. After the 30-day grace period, a student would have to be excluded from in-person and remote learning until compliant with these legal requirements. If a new student moves into the district, they have 30 calendar days from their first date of attendance, whether attending remotely or in-person.

NCPTA

NCPTA Gates Team Hosts Virtual Town Hall: Virtual Learning During a Pandemic: Are we Surviving or Thriving?Saturday, December 12 from 10-2
The NCPTA Gates Team is pleased to invite you to join us for our final virtual town hall of the year entitled: Virtual Learning during a Pandemic: Are we Surviving or Thriving? During the event, we will take a closer look at how effective our State has been in response to administering virtual learning during the COVID-19 pandemic. We will be joined by a panel of parents, school, district and state representatives, who will share their experiences and feedback on how our State has responded to virtual learning in the midst of the pandemic.
Download and share the flyer.
The event will occur via Zoom. Register now!
Spanish Virtual Townhall
December 12 from 6-7om
TownHall will occur via NCPTA Facebook live pages
No Pre-Registration Required


The NCPTA and NCPTA Gates team in collaboration with Que Pasa will be facilitating a virtual townhall panel discussion for Spanish speaking families on December 12th from 6:00 pm- 7:00 pm.
The event will examine how effective our State has been in response to administering virtual learning during the COVID-19 pandemic.
The event will broadcasted via Que Pasa, Society of Professionals, and NCPTA Facebook live pages. No pre-registration will be required, participants will simply visit the Facebook page of their choice from the options listed above to tune into the event!






Webinar Jan 11 7:30pm Diversity and Inclusion
Register Today!






State-Level Reflections Theme Winners from Wake County!
National PTA Reflections sponsors a student-focused Theme Search Contest annually to determine a future program theme. Congratulations to these Wake County students who were announced as  state-level winners for the Reflections 2022-2023 Theme Search. The winners below have moved on to the National level. Fingers crossed the next Reflections theme will come from a North Carolina student!
  
“Do the Impossible”        
Tara Nambi, Carnage Middle School, Raleigh


“My superpower is...”  
Zoe Powell, Green Elementary School, Raleigh


“A Matter of Perspective”
Tara Nambi, Carnage Middle School, Raleigh


Wake County Honor Roll Recipients
Congratulations to these Wake County PTAs who sent in dues by November 15 and had total number of members equal to or greater than last year’s membership. Amazing work!
Banks Road Elementary School
Cedar Fork Elementary
Crossroads Flex High
Fred J. Carnage GT Magnet Middle School
Fuller Magnet Elementary PTA
Ligon Magnet Middle School PTA
Millbrook Magnet High School
Moore Square PTSA
Partnership Magnet Elementary PTA
South Garner High PTSA
WYWLA PTSA
For a complete list of Honor Roll Recipients, see the NCPTA Website.


Wake County Blue Key Winners
Congratulations to all these Wake County PTAs who turned in their membership dues to the state by October 15.


A.B. Combs Elem. School PTA
A.V. Baucom Elementary School PTA
Abbotts Creek Elementary PTA
Aldert Root Elem. School PTA
Alston Ridge Elementary PTA
Apex Elementary School PTA
Apex Friendship High PTSA
Apex Middle School PTA
Apex Senior High School PTSA
Athens Drive High School PTSA
Aversboro Elementary School PTA
Ballentine Elementary School PTA
Banks Road Elementary School PTA
Brassfield Road Elem. School PTA
Briarcliff Elementary School PTA
Brier Creek Year-Round Elementary PTA
Brooks Elementary School PTA
Broughton Community High School PTSA
Buckhorn Creek Elementary PTA
Carnage GT Magnet Middle School PTSA
Carpenter Elementary School PTA
Carver Elementary School PTA
Cary Elementary School PTA
Cary Senior High School PTSA
Centennial Campus Mdl School PTSA
Conn Elementary School PTA
Creech Road Elementary School PTA
Davis Drive Elementary School PTA
Davis Drive Middle School PTA
Dillard Drive Elem. School PTA
Dillard Drive Middle School PTA
Douglas Creative Arts-Sci. Mag PTA
Durant Road Middle School PTA
East Garner Magnet Middle PTSA
Enloe High School PTSA
Farmington Woods Elem. School PTA
Forest Pines Drive Elementary School PTA
Forestville Road Elementary PTA
Frances Lacy Elem. School PTA
Fred A. Olds Elem. School PTA
Fuller GT Elementary School PTA
Fuquay-Varina Elem. School PTA
Fuquay-Varina High School PTSA
Fuquay-Varina Middle School PTSA
Garner Magnet High School PTSA
Green Hope Elementary School PTA
Green Hope High School PTSA
Green Level High School PTSA
Harris Creek Elementary PTA
Heritage High School PTSA
Heritage Middle School PTA
Highcroft Drive Elementary PTA
Hilburn Drive Academy PTA
Holly Grove Elementary School PTA
Holly Grove Middle School PTSA
Holly Ridge Elementary School PTA
Holly Ridge Middle School PTA
Holly Springs Elem. School PTA
Holly Springs High PTSA
Hortons Creek Elementary PTA
Hunter GT Elementary School PTA
J.W. York Elem. School PTA
J.Y. Joyner Elem. School PTA
Jeffreys Grove Elem. School PTA
Jones Dairy Elementary School PTA
Kingswood Elementary School PTA
Laurel Park Elementary PTA
Lead Mine Elementary School PTA
Leesville Road Elementary PTA
Leesville Road High School PTSA
Leesville Road Middle School PTSA
Lewis H. Powell GT Elem. PTA
Lincoln Heights Magnet Elem. PTA
Lufkin Rd. Yr-Rd Middle School PTA
Lynn Road Elementary School PTA
Martin Middle School PTA
Middle Creek Elementary School PTA
Mills Park Elementary PTA
Mills Park Middle School PTSA
Moore Square Museums M.M.S. PTSA
Morrisville Year Rd. Elem. PTA
Neuse River Middle School PTA
North Garner Middle School PTSA
North Ridge Elementary School PTA
Northwoods Elementary School PTA
Oak Grove Elementary School PTA
Oakview Elementary School PTA
Oberlin Middle School PTA
Olive Chapel Elementary School PTA
Panther Creek High PTSA
Parkside Elementary School PTA
Partnership Elementary School PTA
Pine Hollow Middle School PTSA
Pleasant Grove Elementary PTA
Pleasant Union Elementary Sch. PTA
Rand Road Elementary School PTA
Reedy Creek Middle School PTA
Richland Creek Elementary PTA
Rolesville Elementary School PTA
Sanford Creek Elementary School PTA
Scotts Ridge Elementary PTA
South Garner High School PTSA
South Lakes Elementary School PTA
Southeast Raleigh Elementary School PTA
Southeast Raleigh High School PTSA
Swift Creek Elementary School PTA
Timber Drive Elementary School PTA
Trilogy School PTA
Turner Creek Elementary School PTA
Underwood GT Elem. School PTA
Vena Wilburn Elem. School PTA
Wakefield Elementary School PTA
Wakefield High School PTSA
Washington GT Elem. School PTA
Weatherstone Elementary School PTA
Wendell Creative Arts & Science Magnet Elem. PTA
West Cary Middle School PTSA
White Oak Elementary School PTA
Wildwood Forest Elem. School PTA
Wiley International Elem. PTA
Willow Springs Elem. School PTA
WYMLA PTSA
WYWLA PTSA
Yates Mill Elementary School PTA
Zebulon GT Elem. School PTA


For a complete list of Blue Key winners, see the NCPTA website.

National PTA

Spotlight Your PTA Achievements at LegCon 2021: March 9-12
Proposals due by Dec 8 at 11:59pm


Submit your state, regional and/or local PTA to conduct a Spotlight presentation, where they will share how your PTA advocated for kids on issues that impact their education and well-being. Presentations should focus on issues included in National PTA’s Public Policy Agenda and include strategies and tactics that other PTAs can emulate. All Spotlights will be pre-recorded and shown at our Virtual Legislative Conference Tuesday, March 9, 2021.


For a list of requirements and the rubric or to submit your proposal, Spotlight Your PTA Achievements at LegCon.

November News

11/2/2020

 
President's Message
Greetings to you all!
I hope that you have been enjoying the cooler fall weather and that your PTA is running smoothly!  Even though this is not a normal school year, I hope that you are focusing on what your PTA can accomplish over the things you won’t be able to do this year. There are, no doubt, struggles that we are facing with our operations, budgets, fundraising, and programs. Some PTAs are still struggling to find people to fill officer and committee positions. If you are in this situation, please know that your PTA is not alone. Wake PTA Council is here to help and support you, so please reach out to us!
THANK YOU ADVOCACY COMMITTEE!
On behalf of WCPTA I would like to say a HUGE thank you to our Advocacy chair Lisa Mead and her committee for the excellent job they did in holding voter education forums over the past month!  These forums were broadcasted live and posted afterward so that voters could learn the positions of candidates for school board, NC House and Senate, and more. Part of our advocacy work is encouraging voters to know the issues on the ballot that will affect them and to offer non-partisan opportunities for candidates to share their views. The recorded videos have been viewed almost 2000 times! Great job to Lisa and everyone involved for your hard work that made this possible!


JOIN COUNCIL
Again, I’d like to remind you that we have waived the annual $50 fee for joining Council this year. Unfortunately, many PTAs have not yet joined Council despite the fees being waived! Council membership is free this year, but it is not automatic. Please fill out this form so that we have your contact information and can share the many resources that can help you have a successful year with your PTA. 


STAY IN GOOD STANDING
One of the ways that Wake PTA Council can support you is to make sure that you remain in good standing with NCPTA. PLEASE do not jeopardize your 501(c)3 nonprofit status by not complying to the Uniform Bylaws! We are finding that far too many PTAs are “winging it” with elections, operations, and finances, and the last thing we want is for you to lose your charter for not following these rules! We are currently reviewing the compliance report provided by NCPTA, and we will reach out if we see that your unit is currently not in good standing so we can support you in fixing any problems. Again, PLEASE reach out to us as soon as you see there is an issue - that’s what we are here for!


ADDITIONAL RESOURCES:
National PTA website is home to a lot of useful resources for units. If you have not yet registered for the PTA Boot Camp, register at www.PTAKit.org. Once you are registered, your PTA Boot Camp will be launched. As a PTA Boot Camp member, you will be invited to join  NEW “PTA Leaders Only” closed group on Facebook. It is a great page with a variety of topics posted by units from across the country/world. Check it out!
Thanks again for all that you do to advocate on behalf of children everywhere. At the end of the day, remember “why you PTA!”
Advocating for you,
Amy



Election Day is Tuesday, Nov 3
Polls are open on Tuesday from 6:30am-7:30pm. You must be in line by 7:30pm to vote.
For more information, see the Wake County Board of Elections site.





Wake County PTA Q&A Sessions
Tuesday, November 10 7:30 to 8:30pm
PTAs: Restrictions on the use of non-profit (501c3) funds
As a non-profit business, there are restrictions on how funds are to be used.  Do you know what they are?  Are gift cards allowed?  Can you donate money to a family in need?  Join us to learn more about these and other funding questions.
Join with Google Meet
meet.google.com/xji-ueov-dax
Meeting ID
meet.google.com/xji-ueov-dax
Phone Numbers
(?US?)?+1 347-352-3228?
PIN: ?479 595 282#?
More phone numbers


Thursday, November 19 7:30 to 8:30pm
How is your PTA board doing?
2020 has been quite the year.  We are learning to do a lot of things differently at work, home and at school.  Do you have questions or concerns?  Do you need motivation or guidance?  Drop in during our Q&A session.
Join with Google Meet
meet.google.com/nei-yvbi-kms
Meeting ID
meet.google.com/nei-yvbi-kms
Phone Numbers
(?US?)?+1 435-776-5085?
PIN: ?820 534 329#?
More phone numbers



Reflections 2020-21: I Matter Because
The theme for this year's competition is "I Matter Because ...". For more information, see the Reflections page on the Wake County PTA website or contact Reflections chair, Ashley Keener at reflections@wakepta.org.
As of October 21, we have 58 schools that are planning on taking part in Reflections.
The Reflections deadline to submit Artwork to the county has been pushed back to November 23rd. 
If any chairs have questions they should email me at reflections@wakepta.org and refer to Memberhub's Wake County PTA Reflections hub, https://wakepta.memberhub.com/hub/WakePT06819


Special Artist Division
DID YOU KNOW that the PTA Reflections Program 
has a SPECIAL ARTIST DIVISION?


The Special Artist Division welcomes all grades and all abilities and offers non-artistic accommodations (e.g. adaptive technology; transcribing; holding a camera) for students to participate fully in PTA Reflections.
  • Click these links for details 
    • 20-21 Reflections_Special Artists_Final.docx
    •  special-artist-division-rules_reflections_20-21...
  • If you have questions or need support, please contact the SEIC Chair (Christine Roberts) at seic@wakepta.org or the Reflections Chair (Ashley Keener) at reflections@wakepta.org. 





Fri-YAY Shout Out!
Do you know of a Wake County PTA that is doing something amazing? Let us know!
Please fill out this form, and include a photo if possible.
PTA leaders - don't be afraid to toot your own horn! We will give shout-outs on social media on Fridays to celebrate the difference PTAs are making in our schools. ** Please include elementary, middle or high school since there are several schools with the same name!







PTA Officers: Important Reminders
Did You Add Your PTA Officers to MemberHub?
Remember: Load your Officers into MemberHub even if they did not change. 
Each year, every unit needs to input their Officers into MemberHub.
  • President
  • Secretary
  • Treasurer
  • 1 or more VPs
  • Membership Chair
  • Advocacy Chair
  • Reflections Chair
  • Health/Wellness/Safety Chair
The NC PTA and the Wake County PTA Council use the information in MemberHub to communicate with your leadership.  Entering this officer information is also a Good Standing Requirement, so please make sure to load them today. 
If you need help, you may email treasurer@wakepta.org for assistance.


PTA Units: Join the Wake County PTA Council
The Wake County PTA Council has waived their normal $50 annual fee to join the council.  We would love to see all units join our council, so please take advantage of this free year by completing the Membership Form (NOTE: You have to complete the form to actually “join” the council this year). 





Mark Your Calendars
  • Tuesday, Nov 10 7:30-8:30pm: PTAs: Restrictions on use of non-profit funds. Google Meet: meet.google.com/xji-ueov-dax
  • Thursday, Nov 19 7:30-8:30pm: How Is Your PTA Board Doing? Google Meet: meet.google.com/nei-yvbi-kms








NCPTA


The NCPTA has great resources for local PTAs.  Check out these upcoming opportunities!

Grant Opportunities
NCPTA School Meal Challenge Mini Grant Program: Lunch Box Edition...DEADLINE TODAY! (Nov 2)
The 2020-2021 NCPTA ‘Healthy Schools’mini grant application is open! These grants are up to $1,000 for PTA units or councils in good standing. The grant funding will be used for to fund a project or event that will be used for school nutrition engagement and building awareness/support for school nutrition programs at your local school(s) across the state.  We look forward to seeing your applications! Click here to apply today!




NCPTA Webinars
TONIGHT! 
PTA President-Leading Your PTA:
Monday, November 2, 2020 at 7:30 p.m.
Join NCPTA as we discuss the role and responsibility of PTA President. Click here to register.  You can also go to this page to learn about future webinars.




Calling All Student Members of PTSAs!
North Carolina PTA is creating a Youth Council and is looking for representatives from across the state. If you know a youth who is active in your PTSA or would be interested, please contact Amy Jones at president@wakepta.org ASAP!  Here is the information from NCPTA:


Qualifications for the Youth Council Representatives 
  • Must be in grades 9-12 in high school or older 
  • This group is the Youth Events Planning Committee
  • Lead by Destinee Harriott, Youth Engagement Committee Co-Chair, with Sonya Harriott, Youth Engagement  Committee Char, and the adult Youth Engagement Committee members being the advisors. 
  • One youth representative nominated from each Council 
  • Will represent the council for the county in which the youth lives
  • Will be responsible for planning the February 27th event & youth strand in the 2021 NCPTA State PTA Convention 
  • Will work with the NCPTA Events Committee and the youth members of the Youth Engagement Committee to plan the February 27th Youth Summit and the 2021 NCPTA Convention Youth Engagement strand. (Identify speakers, the event itinerary, etc). 


The goal of the Youth Engagement Committee is to help cultivate youth leaders and to engage more youth to become PTSA members in their schools and community. The youth members will assist the youth council representatives in planning the two events/activities. The goal of the Youth Council Representatives is to create a pipeline of youth leaders to matriculate into youth members of NCPTA Board of Directors and the NCPTA Youth Engagement Committee. The adult committee members will help guide the youth in their conversations, thought process, and decision making as they discuss ideas on how to make PTA more appealing and relevant to youth. The adults are the advisors and the youth will be responsible for the planning and decision making from the youth perspective. This committee should reflect the voice of the youths in NC being presented by the youth. 

October News

10/11/2020

 
President's Message
Greetings Wake PTA Family, and Happy Fall!! 
This is Amy Jones - please allow me to introduce myself as the newly elected Wake County PTA Council President. I am honored and excited to serve you, and want to express my sincere gratitude for Kassandra Watson’s leadership as I step into. I have served on the Council for the past two years as the VP of Leadership and Training, and for three years as the Chairperson for our Night of Stars Volunteer Recognition event. I have two sons in 11th and 7th grade, and served for many years on the PTA board at their elementary school. I was also a teacher for 12 years. Supporting public schools and the families who attend them is my calling and passion!


As we head into October of this school-year-like-no-other (as we all are getting a little tired of saying), some PTAs are adapting and finding ways to connect with their school families, while other PTAs are finding it challenging to get things going.  While it’s frustrating that we cannot meet in person, this pandemic has afforded us the greater flexibility of meeting with more units online with much fewer schedule and travel constraints. Please do not hesitate to contact us if your unit is in need of some assistance from our council! In case you are not sure what a PTA council does...


A council is an organized group of three or more local PTA units affiliated with NCPTA for the purpose of promoting conferences, communications, leadership development, and coordination of the efforts of such local PTA units. The PTA council’s main purpose is to promote the welfare of children and youth.


The Wake County PTA Council provides unity, strength and promotes all PTA units in the communities of Wake County. We are committed to serving, empowering and encouraging all of our members by being an integral part of the National PTA, NCPTA, our school board, superintendent, administration, teachers & staff, parents, businesses and especially our children. We are trustworthy advocates who want to ensure that all Wake County families are engaged in every child’s success.


This year, WCPTA is waiving our normal dues of $50 due to the pandemic. 
We would love to see 100% unit membership from PTAs and PTSAs across the county, but understand that fundraising efforts and budgets have been disrupted since last March. Even though we are waiving fees, we still need units to complete this form so that we can keep track of membership. If you have any questions on council membership, please reach out to myself at president@wakepta.org or our treasurer, Gary Lewis, at treasurer@wakepta.org. In the subject line, please put “Council Membership” and we will respond as soon as possible. A big “thank-you” to all of our units who have already joined!  


Please remember that there are many resources available to PTA leaders online!
NCPTA has a Lifeline for Leaders webinar every month. This month’s topic was “PTA Financial Basics and Budget Preparation” on Monday, October 5, 2020. The full webinar schedule and archived training sessions can be found here. In addition, National PTA has numerous resources to assist your unit with any topic. 


Thank you to all of you for all that you do to ensure that every child’s potential becomes a reality - together we can make a difference! Please don’t hesitate to reach out to us if you have issues, concerns, or questions. Wishing you all a happy fall and a successful PTA year!!
Advocating for you, 
Amy



Did You Add Your PTA Officers to MemberHub?
Remember: Load your Officers into MemberHub even if they did not change. 
Each year, every unit needs to input their Officers into MemberHub.
  • President
  • Secretary
  • Treasurer
  • 1 or more VPs
  • Membership Chair
  • Advocacy Chair
  • Reflections Chair
  • Health/Wellness/Safety Chair
The NC PTA and the Wake County PTA Council use the information in MemberHub to communicate with your leadership.  Entering this officer information is also a Good Standing Requirement, so please make sure to load them today. 
If you need help, you may email treasurer@wakepta.org for assistance.

PTA Units: Join the Wake County PTA Council
The Wake County PTA Council has waived their normal $50 annual fee to join the council.  We would love to see all units join our council, so please take advantage of this free year by completing the Membership Form (NOTE: You have to complete the form to actually “join” the council this year). 
If your unit plans to participate in the annual Reflections program, you need to fill out the form and pay the $25 Reflections fee.  Here is the invoice letter for your Reflections fee.

Early Voting Starts Thursday, Oct 15
Early voting starts Thursday, Oct 15 and runs through Saturday, Oct 31.  For dates, times, and locations, see the Wake County Early Voting site.
​PTA Advocacy: Candidate Forums

The Wake County PTA Advocacy Committee and local units recently conducted several candidate forums for the November elections. Several of these sessions were recorded and available for viewing on the Advocacy YouTube channel.


  • Candidate Forum for State Senate (Oct 8)
  • Candidate Forum for NC House (Oct 5)
  • School Board District 2 Candidate Forum
  • Wake County School Board Candidate Forum
On October 14, there will be a School Board District 8 & 9 Candidate Forum. 
For details, please 'like' our Facebook page and subscribe to the WakePTA Advocacy YouTube Channel.  
Reminder: PTA’s cannot endorse candidates, but can provide voter information as long as all candidates are represented.

Join the New Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion Committee
We are inviting PTA members to join our Wake PTA Divisity, Equity, and Inclusion Meting.  This is a new committee, and we are recruiting members.
If you are interested in becoming a member, join nus for our first meeting on October 15, 2020 at 7pm via Google Meet: https://meet.google.com/gtg-qauc-qdd

Reflections 2020-21: I Matter Because

**Payments for Reflections fees must be postmarked by October 31, 2020 in order to participate.
The theme for this year's competition is "I Matter Because ...". For more information, see the Reflections page on the Wake County PTA website or contact Reflections chair, Ashley Keener at reflections@wakepta.org.
To participate in Reflections, you must be a member of Wake PTA Council. Please complete the Membership Form and send your Reflections fee of $25 to:

Wake PTA Council 
WCPSS – Crossroads II 
110 Corning Drive 
Cary, North Carolina 27518



Reflections: National Theme Search
National PTA Reflections sponsors a student-themed Theme Search Contest annually to determine a future program theme.
Students can submit ideas for the 2022-2023 Reflections Theme. The student who submits the winning entry at the National level of judging will receive $100 from National PTA and his or her theme will be used to spark creativity during the 2022-23 National PTA Reflections Program!
Themes must be submitted online to NCPTA by October 31, 2020. Submit here!

2020 Color of Education Summit
The Public School Forum of North Carolina, the Samuel DuBois Cook Center on Social Equity, and the Center for Child and Family Policy at the Sanford School of Public Policy at Duke is hosting this event.
There are four sessions in October and each session is a different topic.
For more information, see colorofeducation.org.
 
Mark Your Calendars!
  • Oct 14: School Board Candidate Forum for District 8 & 9: WakePTA Advocacy YouTube Channel.  
  • Oct 15:
    • 7:00pm Meeting of Wake County Equity and Inclusion Committee via Google Meet: https://meet.google.com/gtg-qauc-qdd
    • First deadline for State and National Membership Dues
    • Early Voting Starts
  • Oct 31
    • Deadline for Reflections fees to Wake County PTA Council.
    • Deadline for Reflections National Theme Search. Submit here!
    • Last day for Early Voting
  • Nov 3:  Election Day.  No School!

October is Domestic Violence Awareness Month

In observance of Domestic Violence Awareness Month, InterAct is hosting a series of presentation via Eventbrite. These events are free and open to the public. Join us!
Registration is required. Use links below to complete registration.
 
October 15 @ 2pm: Domestic Violence 101
October 22 @1pm: Effects of Domestic Violence on Children and What We Can Do
October 29 @ 2pm: Hear Their Voice: A Q & A with Survivors




Wake School Board Candidate Forum - 9/23

9/20/2020

 
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On September 23 the Wake County PTA Council will be hosting a virtual candidate forum for those running for school board in the November election. All candidates were invited to participate in this event. Questions have been submitted in advance. ​It will be broadcast on the WakePTA Advocacy You Tube Channel and on Facebook @Wakepta.

Reflections 2020-21

9/9/2020

 

The submission date for Wake County Reflections is November 11, 2020

Please contact reflections@wakepta.org 
for more information.

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SUMMER LEADERSHIP CONFERENCE 2020

9/2/2020

 
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REGISTRATION

Wake PTA Council Open Positions

8/27/2020

 

Are you ready to take your PTA game 
​
to the next level?

OPEN POSITIONS - The Wake County PTA Council is recruiting new board members for the 2020-21 school year. As a small group of dedicated volunteers, Wake PTA Council supports the mission of the PTA through advocacy, educational programs, training and conferences, and sharing of information. As part of a community of advocates, WCPTA collaborates with other local organizations to ensure all Wake County families are engaged in every child’s success. We meet monthly (currently online), to receive updates from the WCPSS Superintendent, plan programs, and review advocacy efforts. 

Interested in learning more? Please complete the Wake PTA Council Board Interest Form and someone will contact you!

The follwoing positions will be on the slate for officer elections on September 12th:

VP of Leadership
Local PTA units look to you to support their efforts by clarifying their roles and responsibilities, as well as troubleshooting issues that arise.  
The VP of Leadership’s responsibilities include:
  • Be responsible for planning, communication, and implementation of training programs held twice each year, in coordination with the President
  • Serving as the first alternate to the President.
  • Assist NC PTA in the establishment of new PTA/PTSA units, as delegated by the President. 
A great VP of Leadership has a strong knowledge of PTA rules and processes and values the development of skills and competencies in all PTA volunteers. Organization and management skills are helpful when coordinating training events. The VP of Leadership is responsible for leading the Wake PTA Council when the President is not available.

VP of Communication
Wake PTA Council looks to you to communicate important information to the membership, share ideas and best practices from other PTAs, post stories on social media that support our mission, and collaborate on programs and activities of the Wake PTA Council.
Specific duties of the VP of Communication include:
  • Oversees public relations and technology for the Council
  • Communicate appropriate and timely information through Twitter and Facebook
  • Collect and edit information from various committees to distribute a monthly newsletter
  • Be a resource to help with setup and use of Memberhub as a communications tool
  • Serve as webmaster of Council website or work directly with an appointed webmaster to ensure that all information posted to the website is appropriate to the mission, values, and objectives of the Council
  • Develop communication necessary to inform members of activities and events, in collaboration with President, VP’s, and committee chairs as appropriate
A great VP of Communication should have knowledge of website building/editing, G-Suite management, and social media platforms. As an elected position, the VP is integral to the leadership of the Wake PTA.

Treasurer 
Wake PTA Council relies on you to ensure that appropriate financial records are kept, a budget is established and followed, and controls are in place to prevent theft or fraud. Additionally, Wake PTA Council looks to you to provide guidance and assistance to local units regarding fiscal responsibilities. 
Duties of the Treasurer include: 
  • Chairing the Budget Committee, which prepares the annual budget for adoption by the council membership.
  • Keeping permanent records to track Council funds and financial transactions
  • Paying all PTA bills as authorized by the board
  • Making timely deposits of PTA income
  • Preparing reports for every board meeting and an annual financial report
  • Ensuring IRS 990 and reports required by PTA bylaws, insurance or federal and state governments are completed and submitted by the due dates
Wake PTA currently has two past treasurers sitting on the board who can assist you throughout the year as needed. Training and tools are also available from NCPTA  and National PTA.

The following positions will be appointed through a vote by the Council:
​

Reflections Committee
The Reflections program is an arts program administered by the national PTA. The Reflections Committee is responsible for promoting this program to WCPSS and facilitating the participation of all interested PTA units.  
The Reflections Committee is responsible for the following tasks to make the program successful:
  • Promoting the Reflections program
  • Coordinating and implementing all aspects of the Reflections program in Wake County
  • Maintaining a program timeline
  • Supporting individual PTA Reflection Chairs through materials and effective communication
  • Recruiting committee members and delegating tasks
  • Collecting student entries and verifying they meet all eligibility requirements
  • Coordinating the Wake County judging process
  • Answering questions about the rules, deadlines, and student entry forms
  • Overseeing the awards and recognition of participants
  • Return entries to students. Evaluate the process at the end of the year and make recommendations for improvements
A great Reflections Chair values the arts as a tool for student expression and is skilled in organization and collaboration. A Reflections chair must be able to manage deadlines, communicate effectively with local PTA units, and follow Reflections guidelines and criteria set by the National PTA.
Time commitment is 10-15 hours for the months of September, November, December. 5 hours in January. 
Special Education Inclusion Committee
Your role in the SEIC is to support the Wake PTA mission and the development of inclusive PTA programs and practices by: 
  • Providing ideas to PTA units that facilitate the inclusion of students with special needs through modifications and accommodations to programs and events
  • Serving as a link to special education resources and related community services.
  • Managing (or delegating) the upkeep of SEIC website, Facebook page, and Memberhub
  • Serving as a member of the Special Education Advisory Council (SEAC), 
A great SEIC Chair has knowledge of and passion for inclusive practices and enjoys building networks of support.
Volunteer Recognition/Night of Stars Coordinator 
Your role is to coordinate volunteer recognition of our local PTA units. Collaborate with local unit officers to assess and identify volunteers to be recognized at the annual Night of Stars celebration.
  • Oversee volunteer recruitment, training, and assignments for Council events, if applicable,.
  • Chairing the annual Night of Stars volunteer recognition event.
  • Recognize PTAs and their volunteers for their great ideas and hard work on social media.
Great Volunteer Recognition Chairs have a passion for recognizing and celebrating the wonderful efforts of our many volunteers. The volunteers of our Wake County PTA units are truly the heart of the association. Wake PTA believes in honoring those special people who act as tireless advocates for children’s education, health, and well-being.


Healthy PTA Checklist

5/28/2020

 

May News

5/3/2020

 
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​GREETINGS PTA FAMILY, 
 
Happy May!! I hope that this communication finds you and your families staying healthy and safe and doing well. Wow, what a past couple of months it has been!! We have journeyed through some difficult, challenging and unprecedented times and the days ahead will continue to be difficult and challenging but there is light at the end of this “tunnel” - HOPE!! 
 
As of now, National PTA and NCPTA have suspended all activities. 
 
Our Reflections Celebration was cancelled but we were able to highlight the winners from each category on our Facebook page. We also cancelled our Night of Stars, which was our volunteer recognition, as well as, our elections for our officers for 2020-2021. We will be in touch with you in the coming weeks to determine how we will proceed. 
**If you are interested in volunteering with the council, please send us an email and let us know what you are interested in.
 
THANK YOU!! We are so pleased that many of our units have been providing support to our numerous communities here in Wake County. This speaks highly of the commitment and dedication of our volunteers to be of service to others in the time of need. So again, THANK YOU!!           
 
We are trying to stay connected with the national PTA and the NCPTA to ensure that we share the most important information to you all. The council has been holding monthly meetings via conference call and encourage you guys to do the same. We are here for you!! Reach out to us!! Please take care of yourselves and your families and stay safe
 
Our year started strong and amazing and although it has been totally interrupted we can still finish PTA STRONG!   Every child. One voice
 
Advocating for all, 
 
Kassandra L. Watson

TEACHER APPRECIATION WEEK

Teacher Appreciation will definitely not look the same this year, but that doesn't mean PTAs across the country won't try to show their teachers some love. Teachers are working harder than ever to adjust lessons and keep kids engaged.

We have received a lot of questions about gift cards for teachers. Here are some guidelines from the NCPTA.
​

Please be aware of WCPSS policy regarding gifts:
"School system employees shall not accept any gifts except token gifts of insubstantial value. School system employees shall not accept any gift, reward, gratuity, or other compensation from any manufacturer, merchant, dealer, publisher, or author for the purpose of influencing or recommending to the school system or any school the use of a seller’s goods, wares, merchandise, materials, supplies, services, or equipment."

WCPSS has created the following:
We encourage everyone to join in by using #WCPSSThankATeacher and tagging @WCPSSTeam when giving a shout out to a favorite teacher or to all teachers.

Use the following resources to recognize your favorite teachers next week:
  • Teacher Appreciation Week Thank You Card (download and insert your own message and send via email)
  • Teacher Appreciation Week Certificate (download and insert your own message and send via email)
  • Teacher Appreciation Week Graphics to share on Facebook
  • Teacher Appreciation Week  Graphics to share on Twitter

National PTA has a partnership with Office Depot to recognize teachers:
We LOVE Teachers!Get emoji-tional with us and #ThankATeacher during Teacher Appreciation Week, May 4-8, 2020!

Teachers change the lives of millions of children every day—their immense work and impact moves us beyond words, so we need emojis to say how we feel. And with the abrupt end to the physical school year, our teachers have done even more to continue education with virtual classrooms and learning at home lessons. All to ensure every student has the tools they need to reach their full potential.

How You Can #ThankATeacher
Get creative! And post how you honor your teachers using #ThankATeacher. We love seeing all the awesome ways you celebrate the “T” in PTA!
  • Email heartfelt letters, cards and messages of appreciation
  • Create artwork, poems and video messages to celebrate your teachers
  • Send your teacher a virtual award
  • On Thursday, upload a #TBT of you and your favorite teacher and thank them using #ThankATeacher.
Find more unique ways to virtually celebrate Teacher Appreciation Week on our Pinterest board and PTAOurChildren.org.
Download our Teacher Appreciation Week Toolkit. It’s easy to #ThankATeacher! Use our thank-you cards, certificates, flyers, web ads and social media graphics. Download all of the toolkit materials quickly and easily with the following two zip files. 
Download All (English)
Download All (Spanish)
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If you have a rising kindergarten student, and have not yet registered, you might have questions.  All information can be found on this WCPSS site https://www.wcpss.net/site/Default.aspx?PageID=33753.  The following enrollment process will allow families to enroll while school buildings are closed due to COVID-19.
You will start by completing the online enrollment form as outlined below, then await instructions from your child’s base school about how to complete the enrollment process.  These forms can be found via the WCPSS link above.
Families who are not able to complete the online process should contact their base school’s data manager, whom can be found on the school website staff directory. A school representative will contact you by telephone to assist with completing the online enrollment process.
Once schools re-open, you will be asked to submit hard copies of all required documents at your child’s school. Prior to schools re-opening, some parents may be required to bring documents in person, using safe distancing guidelines. Families will be contacted to schedule an appointment should this be necessary.

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NAMI - National Alliance on Mental Illness

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Depression is the most common mental health problem for women, and women experience depression at twice the rate of men. During National Women’s Health week, learn the facts and encourage the women in your life to make their mental health a priority. http://bit.ly/1WQhZXC

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E-Cigerettes and Vaping

Concerned about the dangers of vaping and impacts of nicotine and other substances used in vaping products on adolescents? Check out the How to Talk to With Your Kids about Vaping Guide from the Partnership for Drug-Free Kids.  Still have more questions and concerns? Contact the WCPTA Health and Wellness Committee at healthandwellness@wakepta.org to schedule a program for your PTA. 
SAVE LIVES: Clean Your Hands 5 May 2019  
Washing our hands properly is one the most important things we can do to stop the spread of germs. Check out these handwashing videos from the Poe Center for Health Education. 
ENGLISH:   https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xITIASd4CG8&feature=youtu.be    
SPANISH:  https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=XcMSvqlIxig&feature=youtu.be


National Physical Fitness and Sports Month
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Children who have eat dinner with their families are less likely to use alcohol, tobacco, and other drugs.

Check out this great Baked Apple French Toast recipe from ChopChop Family. 
ENGLISH: BAKED APPLE FRENCH TOAST 
https://www.chopchopfamily.org/recipe/baked-apple-french-toast/ 
SPANISH: PAN FRANCÉS CON MANZANA HORNEADOhttps://www.chopchopfamily.org/recipe/pan-frances-con-manzana-horneado/
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Congratulations to 2019-2020 Look Within National PTA Reflections winners from Wake County!

These national award recipients were chosen from nearly 1,000 student submissions. Of these submissions, 211 students were selected from 40 State PTA Congresses for national-level recognition.  

Awards of Excellence
  • Kai Preddy, Film Production, West Millbrook Middle School, Raleigh
Awards of Merit
  • Eva Penny, Dance Choreography, Middle Creek Elementary School, Apex
  • Haroon Zafiruddin, Film Production, Washington GT Elementary School, Raleigh
  • Brenna Watson, Visual Art , Ligon GT Middle School, Raleigh
For a complete list of awards and prizes, please visit the National PTA Reflections awards page.
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Guidelines for the Election of Officers and Officer Terms​

The State Office has received numerous questions regarding officer elections and terms due to the COVID-19 pandemic. As you know, on April 20, 2020, the NCPTA Board of Directors approved amendments to the Local Unit and Council Uniform PTA Bylaws to address the international COVID-19 pandemic allowing meeting by teleconference, in the event of an emergency; such as natural disaster, war, or epidemic. The amendments clearly state ways for the membership to meet while circumstances such as a pandemic prevents your general membership from physically meeting. 

We hope the information provided in this notice will help clarify procedures concerning the election of officers and how your unit can proceed.

Elections:
The Uniform Bylaws state that local units and councils are to hold elections of officers at the last general membership meeting of the year. The Board of Directors of the local units and councils, by a two-thirds (2/3) vote of the board members in office, has the authority to change the date of a regular scheduled general membership meeting.

If your unit decides to have elections by teleconference before the end of the fiscal year, your unit must comply with the procedures outlined in the NCPTA State Emergency Virtual Meeting Policy. The policy address participation guidelines, quorum, motions, roll-call vote process and more. 

If your unit decides, the last general membership meeting of the fiscal year could be postponed and the elections of officers could take place at such time when gathering limits are relaxed or wait till school resumes in the fall. A delay in elections will cause officers to hold the position past the designated term, but that possibility is provided for in your bylaws (or until his/her successor is elected).  
Officer Terms:
In regards to the current year’s term; even though schools are closed, the PTA is still considered active and so are the officers’ terms. The term of office in the Uniform Bylaws has not been amended. The term for officers remains a one-year term with the opportunity to serve two consecutive terms in the same office. Therefore, each officer terms ends on June 30 or when his/her successor is elected.
What happens when the nominating committee asks for members to serve as officers for the upcoming year and there is no interest and also no nominations from the floor during the election? The position would be considered vacant, and the current officers may stay in their positions until their successors are elected. If officers do remain in office past their term, the Nominating Committee needs to continue to actively look for their replacements.

March News

3/1/2020

 
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Happy March my fellow advocates, 

MARCH MADNESS begins!! This is a busy month! Hopefully you have been having discussions about potential nominees to fill your board positions for next year.  On Monday, March 9th, NCPTA will offer a webinar on the responsibilities of the nominating committee and navigating elections. If you have any questions or concerns about this process, this is the webinar for you. Join NCPTA to learn how to work effectively as a nominating committee and learn the steps to holding elections. Register here.

CALL TO SERVE! The Wake County PTA Council is seeking nominations for the following positions: President, VP of Leadership, VP Communications, Secretary, and Treasurer. We are also looking for leaders to serve as members-at-large. Please contact us if you are interested at president@wakepta.org. Thank you in advance.

The NCPTA Winter Symposium was held on Saturday, February 29th at the Durham Public Schools (DPS) Staff Development Center. PTA representatives from all over NC were in attendance, as well as, members from the community, teachers and principals. We enjoyed a Superhero partnership breakfast where the school report card data was shared. We discussed the Leandro Report with a principal from Halifax County, violence in the community and racial injustice. 

The 2020 NCPTA Annual Awards are open. Winners will be recognized at the NCPTA Convention on May 16th. If you are a PTA unit in good standing you are eligible to apply. You must apply online. Please go online and nominate an outstanding teacher, principal, school administrator, volunteer or even your PTA unit. We encourage you all to nominate someone but especially your own PTA units. If you need assistance with this, please contact the NCPTA office or office@ncpta.org. 



NCPTA Annual Convention 
Annual Convention is coming May 14-16, 2020 in Durham. Click here for the details.

​

Is your unit struggling with memberships, operations, disagreements, any other issues/concerns? Please contact us. Our mission is to unify, promote and strengthen PTA units across Wake County. 
​

Thank YOU for all that you do!! Your time and efforts are appreciated!!! 
Kassandra


CONGRATULATIONS TO THE 2019-20 GOLD Key Winners: 
The Gold Key Award acknowledges teams who received the Blue Key Award for 2019-2020 and added at least 25 new members by January 15.

A. B. Combs Elem. School PTA
Abbotts Creek Elementary PTA
Alston Ridge Middle School PTSA
Apex Friendship High PTSA
Apex Friendship Middle PTSA
Briarcliff Elementary School PTA
Brooks Elementary School PTA
Carroll Middle School PTA
Cary Elementary School PTA
Cary Senior High School PTSA
Enloe High School PTSA
Fred A. Olds Elem. School PTA
Fuquay-Varina High School PTSA
Fuquay-Varina Middle School PTSA
Green Level High School PTSA

Harris Creek Elementary PTA
Heritage High School PTSA


Heritage Middle School PTA
Hilburn Drive Academy PTA
Holly Ridge Elementary School PTA
Hortons Creek Elementary PTA
J.W. York Elem. School PTA
Ligon GT Middle School PTA
Martin Middle School PTA
Middle Creek High School PTSA
Moore Square Museums M.M.S. PTSA
Morrisville Year Rd. Elem. PTA
Northwoods Elementary School PTA
Reedy Creek Middle School PTA
Rolesville Elementary School PTA
Wakefield High School PTSA
Walnut Creek Elementary PTA
West Millbrook Middle School PTA
Wiley International Elem. PTA
WYMLA PTSA
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​Find out all you need to know about the March 3rd Super Tuesday. Especially important to Wake voters are the district changes. Find your sample ballot, and vote!



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Is your PTA in compliance with NCPTA Bylaws?
Section 11.5 Checks. 
All bills of this local PTA shall be paid by check. Checks must be signed by two of no more than four officers authorized by the board of directors to sign checks, except that none of these officers so authorized shall be related, and at least one of these authorized officers shall be the Treasurer. The signing of blank checks is prohibited.

No school employee should have signature authority on PTA checks unless they are a duly elected PTA officer.
The PTA can’t give ‘money to the school or any person or organization without a specific use for the money. The IRS and your members hold the PTA accountable for the use of that money.

Failure to comply with NCPTA bylaws could result in a loss of your PTA Charter and 501(C)3 status.



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Join us as the Poe Center, the Wake County Public School System, Wake County Human Services, and the American Heart Association continue to move the needle and make a healthy difference in the lives of Wake County residents. At the first Tobacco-Free Community Forum, the Triangle community imagined the possibilities of a tobacco-free community.

We invite all to the second Tobacco-Free Community Forum. The purpose of the forum is to educate, empower, and engage.
Join us as we:
  • Hear from leading experts on the current trends and health impacts of the vaping epidemic.
  • Discuss policies that facilitate tobacco-free environments.
  • Create action plans for a healthier community.
Hosted at Southeast Raleigh High School, the youth-led forum will feature an expert-led review of current trends and a panel discussion to educate attendees on the impacts of tobacco and the policies that facilitate tobacco-free environments. Panelists will include youth, community, municipal, education, health, and business leaders. Breakout sessions for youth, parents, and community leaders will provide opportunities to discuss strategies to reduce youth tobacco use and to empower communities in the solution.

Where: Southeast Raleigh Magnet High School, 2600 Rock Quarry Rd, Raleigh, NC 27610
When: March 21st, 2020, 9:30 a.m. – 12:30 p.m.

Questions? Contact Virginia Johnson at v.johnson@poehealth.org. 

Click Here to Register:  www.poehealth.org/events/tobacco-free-community-forum-2020/  
​


Concerned about the dangers of vaping and impacts of nicotine and other substances used in vaping products on adolescents? Check out the How to Talk to With Your Kids about Vaping Guide from the Partnership for Drug-Free Kids. 
Still have more questions and concerns? Contact the WCPTA Health and Wellness Committee at healthandwellness@wakepta.org to schedule a program for your PTA. ​
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March is: ​

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National Nutrition Month

National Nutrition Month Campaign Toolkit 
This handy toolkit includes tip sheets, games and activities, press releases and planning materials including Smart Snacking Tips for Kids, worksheets, and healthy tips for eating out.  ​
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​National Drug and Alcohol Facts Week (March 30 - April 5)

National Drug and Alcohol Facts Week® (NDAFW), an annual health observance week, connects teens with experts to SHATTER THE MYTHS®about drugs and alcohol, with more than 2000 local events every year. National Drugs & Alcohol Chat Day, held during NDAFW, provides an online opportunity for thousands of students from around the country to communicate directly with NIDA scientists in a Web Chat, asking questions about drugs and alcohol.

#YouthCulture – A Workshop Series for Parents

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The Poe Center’s #YouthCulture workshop series is designed to empower parents/guardians by providing up-to-date information on substance use prevention, internet safety, and relationships to support healthy choices. 
​
The adult program series is for adults only.


During each session there will also be a separate Youth Program that complements adult workshop. The youth series is for youths only.

All sessions are located at the Poe Center for Health Education, 224 Sunnybrook Rd, Raleigh, NC, 27610.

Feel free to attend any and all workshops. There will be light snacks and door prizes!resources.
CLICK TO REGISTER: www.poehealth.org/events/youthculture-workshop-series-at-the-poe-center-2020/

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Start planning ahead for April:

  • Alcohol Awareness Month.  Visit TalkItOutNC.org to learn tips on how to talk to your child about alcohol and sign the pledge to commit to talking to your child. 
  • Autism Awareness Month. Learn more and find out what local chapters are doing at Autism Society of North Carolina. 
  • National Every Kid Health Week )April 20-24)
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Did you remember to nominate your PTA's Star Volunteer to be recognized at a the Wake County PTA Council's Night of Stars on April 30th? No worries - the deadline for nominations has been extended to March 7th. Click HERE for the nomination form. We can't wait to see you and celebrate!  WCPTA’s Night of Stars - FAQs
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 The Parents’ Guides to Student Success were developed by teachers, parents and education experts in response to the Common Core State Standards that more than 45 states have adopted.
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Created for grades K-8 and high school English, language arts/literacy and mathematics, the guides provide clear, consistent expectations for what students should be learning at each grade in order to be prepared for college and career. Guides for grades K-High School are available in both English and Spanish.
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Responsibilities of the Nominating Committee and Navigating Elections:
​March 9, 2020 at 7:30 p.m.

Do you have questions about the duties and responsibilities of the Nominating Committee? Do you want to know how to create a slate of officers for your elections? Do you need help on how to hold elections? Join NCPTA to learn how to work effectively as a nominating committee and learn the steps to holding elections. Register here.
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All students who participated in the Reflections contest are invited!

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