The Mission of PTA:  What do they do?

PTA, which stands for Parent Teacher Association, exists to create a forum for parents and teachers to work together for the benefit of the students attending their school.

National PTA is a membership organization headquartered in Chicago with a history of working for children for over 100 years.  Local PTAs pay dues to the state and national organizations and abide by state and national group rules.  In return, they get member benefits and have a political voice.  The National PTA maintains a Washington lobbying office, and most state PTAs advocate at their respective state capitals.

The PTA's history is dotted with milestones.  Since its inception in 1897, the National PTA has been a strong voice on issues relating to child welfare.  PTA support played a key role in instituting school lunch and vaccination programs.  Currently, the PTA's lobbying branch in Washington D.C. is actively involved in fighting for increased federal education funding.

Prominent national figures seek out National PTA support.  Tipper Gore and Bill Cosby have addressed the National PTA convention.  National PTA leaders are frequent guests on talk shows and contributors to important discussions on children.  The National PTA has had and still has a seat at the table in key educational debates.

The Jefferson PTA facilitates programs and resources including:

• Parent/Student Directory
• Fall Festival
• Family Fun Night
• Fifth Grade Graduation
• High Interest Day
• Spirit Wear Sale
• School Ice Skates at the Pettit Center
• Variety Show
• Teacher Appreciation Week

Here are some ongoing fundraising programs sponsored by the PTA:

• Market Day - The best buys to fill your freezer may not come from the local grocery store; they might be right here at Jefferson.  Look for the Market Day flyer in your child's backpack once a month, come to the Jefferson School office to pick one up, or place an order on www. marketday.com.  Market Day purchases help the PTA support school programs.
• Boxtops for Education - Jefferson earns cash from the General Mills "Boxtops for Education" program.  Watch for the "Boxtops for Education" logo on General Mills cereals and other food items.