What Is a PTA?

PTA stands for Parent Teacher Association.

The mission of the PTA is three-fold:

1. To support and speak on behalf of children and youth in the public schools, in the community and before governmental bodies and other organizations that make decisions affecting children;

2. To assist parents in developing the skills they need to raise and protect their children;

3. To encourage parent and public involvement in the public schools of this nation.

The purpose of the PTA is:

1. To promote the welfare of children and youth in home, school, community and place of worship;

2. To raise the standards of home life; To secure adequate laws for the care and protection of children and youth;

3. To bring into closer relation the home and the school, that parents and teachers may cooperate intelligently in the education of children and youth;

4. To develop between educators and the general public such united efforts as will secure for all children and youth the highest advantages in physical, mental, social and spiritual education.

What does PTA do?

PTAs work for children. PTAs meet together, study problems, support teachers, volunteer in schools, attend workshops on parenting and become informed on issues regarding children and youth. As a result, PTA members become better parents, teachers and community members.

Structure

UNIT-Operates as a self-governing body and is chartered by the state. Plans programs and activities to meet community needs. Works at school site, at home, and in the community for all children. Serves as the local organization through which the National and Texas State PTA objectives are carried out. Is represented on the council (if in council) or at state functions by the unit president and/or designated representative.

COUNCIL-Includes all units within a geographical area who wish to belong (i.e.: school district, city, county). Serves as a conference body. Provides workshops, leadership development, information, and programs. Coordinates programs and projects of member units. Works to promote PTA in the area.

REGION-A geographical division of the Texas State PTA Includes all units within the area. Promotes the work of the Texas State PTA and the National PTA. Channels information between the Texas State PTA, units, and councils. Provides leadership development conferences and informational updates at state conventions

TEXAS STATE PTA-A branch of the National PTA Includes all who join local PTAs within the state. Organizes units and councils. Cooperates with other groups and organizations working for youth. Maintains legislative advocates. Holds an annual convention. Interprets and implements policies, programs, and projects. Provides workshops, field services, and leadership development. Provides publications. Represented on the National PTA Board by the Texas State PTA president

NATIONAL PTA-Includes all who join local PTAs Establishes basic policies. Develops and funds projects that are national in scope. Maintains legislative advocates at the federal level. Provides field services and leadership development. Develops and provides resource materials and publications Holds an annual convention.

Note: Each level has been established for the purpose of forming a nationwide movement to advocate the need to support and speak out on behalf of children and youth in the schools, in the community, before governmental agencies, and other organizations that make decisions affecting children.