Honoring the PTA

More than 109 years ago, before the turn of the LAST century, parents recognized the absolutely critical role they could play if they banded together with their children’s teachers for the common good.

And look how that good has grown.

PTA members have my unending admiration and gratitude for their important work.

There is no doubt our schools would not be nearly as effective without the PTA as a partner.

PTA members are active over-achievers in terms of supporting schools. Their fingerprints cover activities on every campus and their support often makes the difference between failure and success. PTA members make a difference every day, to their children, to their classrooms, and to their schools.

That is why I am delighted to be honoring Carla Renard, president of the 15th District PTA, on behalf of all the PTA leaders, members, and parents of school-aged children for the vital and invaluable contributions they make to classrooms throughout Santa Barbara County every day.

We will be making this presentation at our festive Celebration of Public Education starting at 9:30 a.m. on Tuesday, April 17, in the auditorium of the County Education Office.

We will also be presenting keynote speaker Frosty Troy, editor of the Oklahoma Observer, winner of more than five-dozen journalism awards, and nationally renowned speaker in support of public education as the foundation of our democracy. Anyone who hasn’t heard him speak has missed out on an inspiring, entertaining, provocative and highly enjoyable experience. We are so happy he has agreed to help us celebrate public education by providing the keynote address.

We will also be featuring student artwork and performances, including the Jonata Bulldog Band from Buellton and the San Marcos Madrigals from Santa Barbara.

The Celebration is open to the public, free of charge, so we are hoping that many members of the community will come help us honor Carla Renard, listen to Frosty Troy, and celebrate the strengths of public education.

Registration or further information can be obtained by calling Tracey Beauchamp at the Santa Barbara County Education Office, 964-4710, ext. 5290 or by emailing traceyb@sbceo.org. In these days of crisis and cynicism we are very pleased to sponsor this celebration of what is good and wonderful about our democracy and the public education system that lies at its base.