WORKSHOP PREVIEW Here are more than 100 of the workshops we will offer at LAUNCH 2014! We will provide a thorough workshop schedule with the date, time and room information for each workshop, along with any additions or changes, closer to the event. A Proactive Plan: Managing the 7 C’s to Prevent Adolescent Anarchy Mother and son team up for the first time to share their perspective on the purpose and cure for adolescence. We don’t think it’s all about grades and sports, but more about the heart. Adolescence is a time of great character building opportunities and parents can cultivate this transitional period between childhood and adulthood. Laugh and learn with this entertaining, experienced mother/son duo and leave equipped with tools for managing curfews, cars, cash, cohorts, conflict and consequences. Presenter: Brenda Bird, Motivational Trainer Families & Faculties Under Construction
ABC’s of LD and ADHD Often times students don’t seem to be living up to their learning potential and teachers and parents can’t understand why. Come learn how to help your child by bringing the team together to gather more information about how the student processes information and what else might effect their learning potential! Presenter: Tierney Thompson, Owner and Educational Diagnostician Thompson Diagnostics, LLC
Accommodating the College Transition Helping students with disabilities navigate the world of accommodations doesn’t start and end with high school coursework. The most confusing and critical questions often surround the transition to college, from standardized tests, to
qualifying once a student is accepted to college. This session covers the requirements for accommodations for each step of the way, including the laws surrounding accommodations, and the difference between what students can expect as they move from the high school to college level. We’ll provide practical advice for student questions and resources to help you along the way. Presenter: Justin Rogers, High School Territory Manager The Princeton Review
Avoid the Summer Slump using the Texas SUCCESS! Texas SUCCESS State-funded (FREE) math and reading adaptive online resources for public school students in grades 3-8 •Avoid Summer Slump – stay sharp! •Access reports that provide student progress •Fill in gaps to optimize improvement The idea is simple: students make progress with more support. Join us to find out more! Presenter: Martha (Marty) Rossi, Project Manager, Digital Resources and Library Services Education Service Center, Region 20
Baby, You’re a Firework Tired of boring, snooze fest presentations? Help your PTA shine with fun, easy, visually appealing and FREE web based programs. Let everyone know how awesome your PTA is with an equally amazing presentation! Presenter: Amanda Banda, President Harlingen City Council PTA
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Back to School Campaign 20147: Attract Families, Educators and Communities to Support PTA! Sure to be a crowd favorite with action, idea-sharing and fun! Be the first to know Texas PTA’s 2014 Back to School Campaign! Participants will start with a marketing plan and brainstorm creative ways to recruit families, educators and the community as well as explore outside the box ways to bring PTA into the community. Presenter: Mary Jo Burgess, Director of Member Services Texas PTA
BASICS: Arts in Education Your PTA can support arts education in a variety of ways. From small volunteer programs to hosting performers, providing students on your campus access to the arts encourages creativity and innovation. Hear how you can bring the arts to your school! Presenter: Texas PTA
Learn the basics of PTA membership – Recruit, Record, Report, Remit, Recognize and Retain. This workshop is a must for anyone coordinating membership! Presenter: Texas PTA
BASICS: Parent Education/Programs Relevant and effective programming is be a cornerstone of a strong, healthy PTA. Come hear how Parent Education and Programs Chairs have a wide variety or resources to assist them in developing their programming year, and learn the ins-and-outs of making this position successful! Presenter: Texas PTA
BASICS: Parliamentarian Motions to amend and amendments to the motion....HELP! Parliamentary procedure doesn’t have to be overwhelming and can make a positive difference in your PTA. Get the tools you need to handle PTA business effectively and efficiently.
BASICS: Communications
Presenter: Texas PTA
Leading your communications team is a big task! In one of the newest additions to the BASICS Series, learn how to be the champion of your communications and outreach efforts, provide your PTA the tools necessary to market your PTA, create eyecatching communication pieces, and develop an online presence for your PTA.
BASICS: President
Presenter: Texas PTA
BASICS: Fundraising As the fundraising chair, you are responsible for selecting fundraising projects that provide funds for the PTAs planned activities and focusing these activities on promoting the PTA purposes. This new BASICS program will offer you an overview of fundraising procedures and laws and will explore how to create a successful plan for the year! Presenter: Texas PTA
Being President is about leading others to become passionate about the mission and vision of PTA. Learn the tools you will need to develop relationships, manage volunteers and create a successful, efficient PTA. Bring your Local PTA bylaws for reference. Presenter: Texas PTA
BASICS: Secretary The secretary position has wide-ranging responsibilities requiring much more than simply being present at all board meetings. Secretaries should play an active role in communicating proper notice of any meetings and the distribution of necessary materials, such as agendas and minutes. Learn the tools of the trade to protect your PTA with accurate and comprehensive meeting records.
BASICS: Healthy Lifestyles
Presenter: Texas PTA
Is your PTA ready to make a difference in the lives of your students? In this BASICS training, you will learn the ropes of the Healthy Lifestyles Chair. You’ll hear how to connect with experts in your community for valuable resources, how to interact with your Council PTA and ISD to achieve results, and how Texas PTA can support you through our new statewide initiative, FitKids.
BASICS: Treasurer
Presenter: Texas PTA
BASICS: Legislative Action Is your PTA a strong advocate for students in your community? Do you want to do more to educate, inform, and energize the parents and educators on your campus about important issues facing education at every level? Join this BASICS Series training to learn how the Legislative Action Chair can be effective within your PTA! Presenter: Texas PTA
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BASICS: Membership
The Treasurer position is critical in realizing the goals of any organization, and PTA has the information and resources you need to be confident and successful! From writing checks to making deposits and beyond, learn the ins-and-outs of being PTA Treasurer. Presenter: Texas PTA
BASICS: Volunteer Coordinators Promoting good relations between the school and community is an important role within any PTA. Come join us to discuss the responsibilities of the volunteer coordinator and how to focus on the success of your PTA’s volunteer program. Presenter: Texas PTA
Be Careful What You Say!
College Saving & Funding Strategies
Maybe you say it. And everyone’s heard it - the old, “We’ve always done it that way!” So how does a PTA break the mold and try new and different things? It’s a given that doing things the same way gets the same results. Come learn how to lead change and never hear again the dreaded words that compromise growth, enthusiasm and forward thinking for your PTA.
ARE YOU ... Bothered by the high cost of your children’s education? Certain you are doing everything possible to reduce college costs? Looking for more options? Learn how to fund college without going broke at this valuable workshop with one of the premier college saving & funding experts in the country.
Presenter: Kyle Ward, CAE Executive Director Texas PTA
Become an Art Champion! Simple, effective, and essential strategies to bring art education to the elementary classroom Make a difference in your children’s education! Learn why art education is of critical importance for the elementary student. See simple ways you can implement art as a PTA volunteer and receive easy and effective art activities to use in the classroom. See for yourself how fun, simple, and rewarding art can be with a take-away art project! Presenter: Laurie White, Creator and CEO Great Artist Program
Boosting Fundraiser Turnout and Profits with Social Media More people means more profits when it comes to running successful event fundraisers - think carnivals, cook-offs, tailgates, walkathons, auctions, talent shows, and more! A key way to garner more participation in your fundraisers is with social media - your go-to tool for not only informing more potential supporters (and participants), but for engaging them too. We’ll cover creating social media plans, engaging supporters and sponsors, recruiting and recognizing volunteers, and choosing product fundraisers that compliment your events. Presenter: Karen Bantuveris, CEO VolunteerSpot
Boosting Parent Participation in your PTA Power your PTA with maximum parent participation! Hear success stories, best practices, and tips and traps for engaging a diverse parent population and building participation and ownership in your school community throughout the year. We’ll also explore simple social impact strategies for online and real world engagement with unique populations such as dads, military families, immigrant communities and grandparents. This session includes fun action-learning activities.
Presenter: Mike Weiner, Principal The Weiner Group College Saving & Funding Strategies
Contentious Boards, Missing Money and Random Drama I Didn’t Sign Up For Is someone on your board using their powers for evil instead of good? Are people suspicious after the financial report is given (if there even is one)? Is email or Facebook killing your PTA? In this roundtable, you will learn from people who have “been there” and lived to tell about it! We’ll have real-life situations and what we did to resolve them. Learn tips and techniques to address even the most prickly situations and leave this session feeling empowered! Presenter: Catherine Carlin, Vice President Field Service Texas PTA
Council PTA Membership Workshop How Can You Influence Membership at Your Locals? Council Membership Chairs are often tasked with increasing membership yet have no direct way to do so. In this informative session, learn Council-specific strategies you can implement to drive membership increases at your locals. Presenter: Catherine Carlin, Vice President Field Service Texas PTA
CRASH Get a sneak peek of this comprehensive media campaign to help youth and parents understand the dangers associated with distracted driving. This compelling documentary follows the journeys of real families coping with impact of poor driving decisions. The program was made possible through a grant from State Farm Insurance. Presenter: Texas PTA
Creando un PTA Para Todos
Presenter: Karen Bantuveris, CEO VolunteerSpot
La necesidad de contenido multicultural. Discutiremos como aumentar la participación dentro de una comunidad de varias culturas. Prácticas de membresía. Como aumentar la participación cultural. Evalúe la diversidad de su unidad. Venga con sus preguntas y le ayudaremos con ideas.
Bring Art Back to the Classroom
Presenter: Cecilia Ortiz, Campus and Multi-Cultural Outreach Manager Texas PTA
Beat budget cuts and learn how to bring art back to your elementary school classroom. Discover tips and tricks for involving parents and building your supply closet. Presenter: Erin Pruetz, Past President Hardy Oak Elementary PTA
Creating a Legacy for Your Children PTA Leaders will learn how to put together an event centered around parent understanding of the importance of creating a lasting family legacy for their children. Learn how to recreate this successful family event at your school! Presenter: Shari Tucker, Parent Support Specialist Comal ISD
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Cyberbullying, Social Networking, Apps, Sexting & More: How to Keep Your Kids & Schools Safe A recent study showed that kids ages 8-18 years old spend an average of 7.5 hours a day being connected. Is your school or household actively talking about ways to keep kids safe? This program will cover hot issues such as social networking, cyberbullying, sexting, and more. Learn how to keep your kids and schools safe in this technology-driven world. Presenter: Katie Greer, CEO KL Greer Consulting
CyberSense: Teach Your Kids to Avoid Online Dangers Our children face online threats from many sources. They are plugged into the Internet via tablets, phones, and online gaming. It is essential that they are made aware of the risks. In this entertaining workshop, James shows how children (and adults!) need to develop a new common sense approach to online activity - CyberSense. Presenter: James Munton, Owner The Munton Group, LLC
Descubriendo el mundo de PTA ¿Qué es la Asociación de Padres y Maestros (PTA)? ¿Por qué se debe tomar parte de PTA? Descubra como puede hacer una diferencia en la escuela de su hijo/a. Adquieran una compresión profunda de las oportunidades que hay para que usted y la comunidad puedan ser parte de su escuela y encuentre las diferentes herramientas disponible para ser una diferencia. Presenter: Cecilia Ortiz, Campus and Multi-Cultural Outreach Manager Texas PTA
Diagnosis of LD/ADHD: What Does it All Mean? Many parents know in their gut their child is not processing information in the expected way but are not sure what to do about it. Sometimes getting the answers can be scary, but when you know what you are dealing with it is a lot easier to solve the problem. Here you will learn how a diagnosis can be obtained and what you should gain from the information gained through an psychoeducational evaluation. Presenter: Tierney Thompson, Owner and Educational Diagnostician Thompson Diagnostics, LLC
Discipline in the Home for Parent Sanity Learn effective communication and discipline strategies which can be implemented immediately to stop arguments and stress in the home. Presenter: Dennis Mitchell, President / Senior Consultant IGN Consulting, LLC
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Diverse Abilities Day: An Interactive Event In this hands-on, interactive session, attendees will simulate the daily challenges of persons with special needs and learn how to host your own Diverse Abilities Day events. This session focuses on allowing youth with disabilities to develop a sense of belonging through building relationships outside of their families, developing knowledge of support systems, and having regular access to their community. Leave knowing you can help your community foster the development of social skills for children with and without disabilities through interaction, collaboration, and peer learning. Communities in which all children and youth are included are healthier, more balanced, and beneficial for all members! Presenter: Lizeth LoCicero, Texas PTA~ELA Class 2013
Don’t Gamble with your PTA Finances Are you tired of struggling to transfer the “books” from one treasurer to the next? Is your volunteer treasurer role more like a full-time job? Texas PTA has partnered with PT Avenue to bring our PTAs an affordable and consistent solution for easy financial management. Come to this BYOT workshop and learn how this cloud-based program can allow you to work smarter-not-harder, and connect you with upcoming services offered by Texas PTA! Presenter: Texas PTA
Duke University Talent Identification Program Come learn about the many educational programs, opportunities, and resources that Duke TIP has to offer academically gifted youth, their parents, and educators. Duke TIP helps supplement schools’ educational offerings for the highly advanced through talent searches, summer programs, courses, AP manuals, and research. There is something for everyone! Presenter: Traci Guidry, SW Regional Manager Duke TIP
Expanding School Meals: Improving Student Achievement and Increasing School Revenue The School Breakfast Bill, SB 376, was passed by the 83rd Texas Legislature and takes effect in the 2014-2015 school year. The new law has the potential to dramatically improve participation in the School Breakfast Program and student achievement in Texas schools. Nutrition policy expert, Rachel Cooper, will explain the details of the new policies and how they can work in tandem to make your school nutrition program more effective, efficient, and financially viable. Presenter: Rachel Cooper, Senior Policy Analyst Center Public Policy Priorities
Family Engagement in the Digital Age We live in a connected world. Parents and kids are continually connected through digital media and technology. Whether engaged on social media sites or simply texting, our society is increasingly reliant on smart phones and other technological conveniences. Unfortunately, people are often least engaged with their own family. In this workshop, we will discuss the importance of an engaged family, how to connect with your family and build relationships in the digital age, and how to overcome the hurdles that currently exist to ensure that your school families have the greatest chance to succeed. Presenter: Kaleigh Bowman, School Programs Specialist Family First/ All Pro Dad/ iMOM
Family Events that Rock! Creating a fun family atmosphere for your family events is the key to getting parents there! Learn simple and inexpensive ways to create that fun atmosphere. Participants will leave with themes, implementation ideas and little tricks to get parents there for reading, science, math and fitness nights. Presenter: Shari Tucker, Parent Support Specialist Comal ISD
Fly Like an Eagle: Unlocking Your Child’s Potential The encouraging words we say and what we expect of our children will shape the view they have of themselves. Teaching our children to love themselves and serve others is key to unlocking their potential. Come and learn some inspiring ideas to help you in parenting and strengthening your child’s wings so they can truly.....Fly like an Eagle!
From Tin Cans to Smart Devices: Communicate with PTA Members via Social Media An interactive session will include strategies in communicate effectively in real time. We will showcase examples from PTAs, PTSAs, and Councils across Texas in our lively session. Bring your e-device! Presenter: Frances Fass, Director-at-Large Texas PTA
FUNDAMENTOS: Orientación de Lideres ¿Es usted un nuevo miembro de la junta directiva del PTA? ¿O quizás usted está buscando para volver a conectar con la misión de la PTA? Escuche a los expertos líderes del PTA sobre el verdadero impacto PTA puede tener en su comunidad, así como los programas, servicios y apoyo disponibles a usted como un PTA en Texas. Al asistir a este curso de líderes, cumplirá con el requisito de los estatutos de su PTA.Las entradas para este curso tenían que haberse adquirido anteriormente durante el registro del evento. Presenter: Texas PTA
Getting Over the Sex Talk Jitters: Why, When, and How to Talk to Your Child with Ease Does the thought of talking to your child about sex make your heart pound? Then come have fun while you learn easy, creative ways to talk about this sensitive subject with children of all ages from a woman who has shared this message with parents across the country.
Presenter: Shaleen Wilding, Reflections Committee Round Rock Council PTA
Presenter: Marilyn Morris, President Aim For Success, Inc
FOUNDATIONS: Diversity & Inclusiveness
Grants: Writing to Win!
The strength of PTA is in our members, and it’s critical to our growth and sustainability to actively engage the wide range of families in our communities. Learn the latest trends in our rapidly changing demographics, and work to identify areas of improvement, along with developing strategies to overcome the diversity challenges at your own campus. Presenter: Texas PTA
Your school has tons of needs but everything costs money! How do you get it? Write a grant! Learn how to find the business community’s low hanging fruit! In this class we examine the purpose of grants, where to look for the right one, and how to write a winning grant proposal. Let this session take the stress off your shoulders, put money in your school’s pockets! You will leave with a plan for your next grant proposal!
FOUNDATIONS: Leader Orientation
Presenter: Laurie Henry, Founder Trinity Science Solutions
Hear from experienced PTA leaders about the true impact PTA can have in your community, as well as the programs, services and support available to you as a PTA in Texas. Attending this course will satisfy the current leadership course requirement in your PTA bylaws. Tickets for this course must have been prepurchased during event registration. Presenter: Texas PTA
Ha! Ha! Help! A very entertaining yet valuable message focused on teaching children responsibility. Based on Love and Logic principles audiences will learn valuable tools for more effective parenting while maintaining a sense of humor. Pairing practical wisdom with laugh-out-loud humor attendees will learn how to communicate in unexpected ways. Presenter: Rebecca Fox, Humorist, Speaker, Motivator, Educator Rebecca Fox, Speaker
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Hope for the Future: Understanding and Meeting the Needs of Gifted Learners This session will provide an overview of giftedness and its common characteristics while helping parents understand the social and emotional needs of their gifted children. With this knowledge, parents can develop strategies for more effective parenting. In addition, the session will review simple steps for parents to build alliances with educators to more effectively advocate for gifted learners.
Your event is decorated, everyone has arrived, and the fundraiser is making money! But then someone gets hurt and you realize that you forgot to purchase insurance. What if you discover some of the fundraising money was stolen...now what? Attend this informative insurance workshop to find out how to protect yourself and your PTA. Presenter: Elgin Allen, President/CEO Association Insurance Management, Inc
Presenter: Tracy Weinberg, Associate Director Texas Association for the Gifted and Talented (TAGT)
It’s a Wrap: PTA Finance Q&A
How To Easily Incorporate Health Activities in Your Schools and Community
It’s been a weekend full of training and information, and we’re sure you have a few burning questions! Join the Texas PTA Treasurer and Director of Finance to get the answers you need to head home for a great year in PTA!
This IT’S TIME TEXAS workshop will promote and incorporate health and wellness in your schools and communities. Utilize our nutrition resources and initiatives to motivate and rally students, parents and teachers to create healthy change. Learn how to take action and commit to move more, eat better and live well.
Presenter: Texas PTA
It’s all about YOU: Highlight Your PTA Experience on LinkedIn!
Presenter: Pat Sutton, Director of Outreach IT’S TIME TEXAS
You are not just a volunteer, you are a STAR! Bring your e-devices and let’s build a LinkedIn profile together. We will highlight your PTA experience and make you shine!
Inclusiveness Programs for Local PTAs
Presenter: Frances Fass, Director-at-Large Texas PTA
Engage all families in your community with programs that help develop relationships in an interactive way. Hear specific tips on how to reach out to those from various cultures and learn how to host a Community Circles program at your campus to engage parents, businesses, and the community while reaching out to non-traditional volunteers. Presenter: Graciela Katzer, Community Liaison Plano ISD Council of PTAs
Increasing Male Involvement and Engaging Dads over Breakfast This workshop will include information on the importance of family engagement and the unique role that fathers play in securing a child’s success. Participants have access to practical parenting advice and free resources, along with information on how to plan, promote, and implement effective All Pro Dad programs at schools. Presenter: Brian Deming, Director of School Programs Family First/All Pro Dad/ iMOM
Increasing Membership by Understanding and Valuing Differences This interactive workshop will explore the complexity of “diversity” in the 21st century, the challenges to inclusion presented by unconscious bias, and the opportunities to grow our PTA membership by valuing the diverse contributions of others. Presenter: Texas PTA
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Insurance: What’s Your Backup Plan?
Just Say “Yes” to PTA! I ask people to run for office, volunteer for events and give my PTA money. I am so tired of being told no or being ignored! Let’s evaluate our “ask” and figure out how to turn those depressing NOs to not only yes, but YES! Everyone has the power to get a positive response, so come to this workshop ready for sharing. You will have fun when you do! Yes? Presenter: Kyle Ward, CAE, Executive Director Texas PTA
Keep Calm and Make it EZ Don’t let the IRS reporting requirements overwhelm you! For PTA’s with annual revenue between $50,000 and $250,000, this workshop will take you step-by-step through the required 990-EZ. Leave feeling confident, comfortable and prepared to submit your information on-time and accurate. Presenter: Texas PTA
Keeping a Cool Head: Managing Conflict in Your PTA Sometimes the biggest challenge in being a leader in your PTA is not the tasks but the people! As long as there are people, there will be disagreements and power struggles. Learn to distance yourself from the problems and reduce the stress for all. Presenter: Sharon Goldblatt, Past President/Board Member Texas PTA/National PTA
Lead the PTA? Yes, I Can!
Media Madness
Being a good leader takes practice and hard work, but the rewards are great. Learn to recognize the talents and strengths that you and those around you possess. Discover the skills you need to be an effective leader and how to develop those skills in others. Make working in PTA a rewarding experience for everyone, and everyone will reap the benefits.
Television, iPods, iPads, laptops and smart-phones…Today’s kids are exposed to an average of seven hours of “screen-time” each and every day, and the impact of those media messages can shape many of their perceptions and actions. Media Madness provides parents and caregivers the tools to successfully manage their children’s “screen time”, effectively monitor media messages and content, and realistically modify your approach as children grow and technology advances.
Presenter: Sharon Goldblatt, Past President/Board Member Texas PTA/National PTA
Learning Lab: PTA Financial Management You’ve heard all about managing your PTA’s finances, but now it’s time to put those processes into action! Join this handson workshop where you will process expenses, deposits, memberships and much more. This real-time, real-life training will prepare you to tackle your duties with confidence and experience! Presenter: Texas PTA
Love and Logic Live! Discipline with Love and Logic has changed the lives of many parents and teachers and the children they love. This workshop will demonstrate the power of empathy instead of anger and teach participants to use fewer words to avoid power struggles and delay consequences until everyone is rational. Discover how your management style may be sabotaging the results you want and learn to set limits while teaching responsibility. Meet the adult son raised on Love and Logic and hear how it made a positive difference in his life. Presenter: Brenda Bird, Motivational Trainer Families & Faculties Under Construction
Making Homework Painless Parents will be taught effective homework and study strategies to assure their child’s success. In this training parents will take home effective and proven strategies which can be implemented immediately. Presenter: Dennis Mitchell, President / Senior Consultant IGN Consulting, LLC
Making the Case for PTA What is your response when someone asks, “Why PTA?” Can you articulate the value of membership? Equip yourself with available resources and craft your own value message so that it appeals to a wide variety of target audiences. Learn how to feel comfortable communicating your passion for the association’s mission. Presenter: Deb Fritz, National Service Representative National PTA
Marketing your PTSA (PTA) Provide a better understanding on how to market your PTSA. Learn about the ways that you are already marketing your PTSA, how big is your “circle of influence” and why it is important, and how to involve administrators in being your #1 cheerleader! Presenter: Dawn Watson, 1st Vice President of Programs Cedar Ridge High School PTSA
Presenter: Texas PTA
Moving from Bullies to Buddies Students must understand the importance of being responsible for their behavior. This session focuses on taking care of the school family by teaching students to be respectful and responsible. Emphasis is made on realizing the importance of every student in the school. The school family must work together to make the school a great place to learn . . . a place that is Bully Free. Come and share your ideas that have helped your school maintain a bully free environment. Presenter: Mark Lukert, Retired Principal Coppell ISD
Parent Engagement – Why Does it Matter? This session focuses on different types of engagement – school, community, state – and the similarities between these forms of engagement. Examples of how easy it is to engage in ways that make a difference for your children, your family, your school and your community. Texas PTA volunteers learn most of what they need to know about engagement the first year they join PTA. It’s easy and it feels good! This session will touch on bond elections and candidate forums. Come to this session to meet members of the new State Advocacy Committee! Presenter: Ellen Arnold, Arnol
Parent Workshops that Sizzle Parent workshops are a great way to provide parents with information and resources to support their child academically, emotionally, and socially. This session will provide participants with the tools and strategies to successfully plan and launch one parent workshop or a workshop series at their campus. We will also provide information on how to collaborate with the principal, teachers and other school staff to effectively plan your event or events. Presenter: Virginia Greene - Office of Family and Community Engagement Dallas Independent School District
Parent-School Conferences: Eliminating Contention, Making Them Productive And Saving The Student In The Process Ever been involved in a school conference only to come out of it with mixed or totally confused emotions and wondering what happened? This workshop teases apart the layers of what all bring to the meeting, what happens during it and how to insure that everyone, including the student, knows what is truly NEXT! Presenter: Tony Arangio PhD, Retired ISD Administrator
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Paying for College Without Going Broke: Learn to Leverage Your ACT and SAT Scores for Financial Aid Paying for College Without Going Broke: Learn to Leverage Your ACT and SAT Scores for Financial Aid. The cost of college attendance increases every year but college can still be affordable. This workshop helps families navigate and demystify the financial challenges surrounding college attendance. Presenter: Mika Rogers, Tutoring Manager The Princeton Review
Positive Discipline: The Power of Parenting This session will provide parents with useful skills and methods to improve communication with their child and allow the parent to spend more quality time together. We will present various ways in which parents can approach discipline situations with their child and how to diffuse potentially difficult situations such as tantrums and power struggles. Parents will learn about behaviors by age and a wide range of ways to solve common issues, including how family meetings provide an opportunity to teach children valuable social and life skills. Presenter: Antonia Neal, Coordinator The Office of Family and Community Engagement Dallas ISD
PT Avenue: Upgrades & Extras Let technology LAUNCH your PTA into the new year! From submiting your officer information with the click of a mouse to cloud-based financial management to generating sales through an online store, PT Avenue offers a full suite of services to enhance the PTA experience for both your volunteer and members. Hear about the most recent upgrades and learn how easy it can be for your PTA to join PT Avenue! Presenter: Paul Brown, PT Avenue
PTA Partnerships: Getting Businesses on Your Side Your Local PTA has needs and local businesses can be the solutions! Learn how to stand out among competing non-profits and find out what it takes to get local businesses to support your PTA. Presenter: Pierr Castillo, Director-at-Large Texas PTA
PTA Success - It Takes Teamwork! A conscious effort to building the organizations team pays huge dividends. Building positive relationships is “key” to creating an engaging and exciting atmosphere necessary for the PTA to succeed. Join me in this fun, interactive session and leave with some ideas that you can use with your organization. Laughter and fun guaranteed! Presenter: Mark Lukert, Retired Principal Coppell ISD
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R U Concerned? We continue to see growth in issues relating to texting while driving and sexting. We will look to see what each of us can do to help with this growing issue Presenter: Scott Brown, Field Service Representative Texas PTA
Rally Day 2015 – It’s Not Too Early to Start Planning! Learn everything you need to know about the upcoming Rally Day at the Texas Capitol – tips for planning your trip, sources of funding, ideas for getting your PTA excited about coming to Austin. Come to this session to meet members of the new State Advocacy Committee! Presenter: Ellen Arnold,
Reaching Out to Multicultural Communities Presented in English with an interpreter (Spanish). This panel of volunteers and local business community members will share their expertise working within multicultural communities. Focusing on opportunities for non-English speaking families to be more involved from cradle to career, we will examine the obstacles families and students face: common language barriers and perceptions. Presenter: Texas PTA
Recruit, Engage, and Empower Middle School and High School Student Members Explore strategies for attracting and engaging students in middle school and high school PTAs. Learn how to help students set goals for themselves and reach their potential through PTA membership and involvement. Discuss challenges with student members and how to turn those challenges into opportunities to develop a healthy, successful PTA. Presenter: Texas PTA
Robert’s Rules for Fun and Non-Profit. The basics of parliamentary procedure will be covered with opportunity to role play. Presenter: Kirk Overbey, Parliamentarian Texas PTA
Scanning and Planning for Play The focus of this presentation will be on school and community wellness and how to create physical activity spaces using the existing environment. The presenters will provide an overview of best practices and introduce innovative techniques to formulate ideas in how to create a healthy school or community environments. Presenter: Michael Lopez, Extension Health Program Specialist Texas A&M AgriLife Extension Service
School Programs: Getting the Most Bang for Your Buck!
SPOTLIGHTS: Recruiting and Retaining Leaders
Oh my, you have been given the assignment of bringing in some kind of program to you school! Where to start? Relax! and join us to learn how to organize and execute a program that will make you the hero! We will discuss how to decide what to bring, where to look, what to require of the company you bring in, and what they will need from you!
Is your PTA struggling to find and retain leaders? Come learn the qualities of a good leader and how to recruit those individuals with those qualities. You will also learn how to retain those new and seasoned leaders of your PTA.
Presenter: Laurie Henry, Founder Trinity Science Solutions LLC
SPOTLIGHTS: Bylaws and Standing Rules
School Rules are Changing – Are you Ready?
Did you know there is a new bylaws template for your PTA? Learn how your bylaws and standing rules can be an asset, rather than an obstacle! Review the steps to updating these documents, learn about the new Local and Council PTA Bylaws Templates, and gain an understanding of the approval process.
Fewer Benchmark tests, fewer End-of-Course tests, parent engagement opportunities - Learn what you need to know about the new rules in Texas schools so you will be prepared for the changes and will know what to look for on your child’s campus. Come to this session to meet members of the new State Advocacy Committee! Presenter: Ellen Arnold
Setting the Table for College/Career Readiness “College planning,” words that often strike fear in the hearts of parents across the country. What does it mean? How hard is it? What to do when? In addition to basic steps for college planning, discover how soft skills combined with academics lead to postsecondary success. Presenter: Kira Holt, Author Kiowa Hill Publishing, LLC
Shhh! Libraries....the Best Kept Secret to Student Success Research shows evidence of the connection between student achievement and school libraries. Members of the Texas Association of School Librarians will discuss this correlation and how quality school library programs lead to engaged students who can successfully locate information, think critically, and communicate effectively. Attendees will explore methods by which PTAs and school libraries can form partnerships to increase student success. Presenter: Julie Briggs, Director of Library Media Services, Richardson ISD and Texas Association of School Librarians
Show Me the Money! You don’t have to be the treasurer to understand the financial health of your PTA! Did you know that EVERY board member has a responsibility to ensure transparent and ethical financial practices within your PTA? Whether you’re the president, principal or PTA board member, this workshop will give you the tools to understand the numbers! Presenter: Texas PTA
Presenter: Texas PTA
Presenter: Texas PTA
SPOTLIGHTS: Conducting a Meeting As a PTA leader, your ability to lead an effective meeting can play a critical role in achieving your PTA’s goals. Whether it’s communicating from the chair or facilitating constructive discussion, effective meetings benefit every volunteer. Don’t miss this opportunity to learn the tools you need! Presenter: Texas PTA
SPOTLIGHTS: Financial Reconciliation A thorough and complete financial reconciliation is a key component of maintaining a healthy PTA. Does serving on a financial reconciliation committee seem too complex or make you feel like the PTA police? Join this workshop to hear the information and resources you need to create a smooth, credible, and low-stress process. Presenter: Texas PTA
SPOTLIGHTS: Working with Committees Working with committees can be a task in and of itself! This workshop will explore best practices in managing your team and inspiring great ideas, teamwork, and efficiency! Presenter: Texas PTA
Strengthen Your PTA by Cultivating Relationships During this session participants will practice “outside the box” thinking and learn how to identify the range of strategic alliances available in their local communities that may be available to lend resources and ideas to support PTA’s mission. Presenter: Texas PTA
Success Starts at Home Family Assets are everyday actions families can take focusing on family relationships, opportunities, values, skills, and selfperceptions so family members thrive. Familiar with Search Institute® 40 Developmental Assets? Family Assets take the research into the home with practical, proven ideas to build
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strong children, teens, and adults.
and treat head lice.
Presenter: Texas PTA
Presenter: Penny Warner, President/CEO The Lice Place
Take The Crazy Out Of Yearbooking! As a former high school yearbook adviser and a current PTA mom herself, Angela knows first hand the importance of getting organized early. This session provides simple steps to get organized, stay motivated, sell books and survive yearbook without going crazy. Don’t miss this time and sanity saving session! Presenter: Angela Hackett, Yearbook Sales Representative Herff Jones Yearbook
Teach and Reach Kids with AD/HD Parents and teachers will be the students during this presentation when they are provided a variety of tips and suggestions meant to help their kids experience educational success. Regardless of the student’s type of learning disability, we will discuss a variety of tools and ideas that can be used to help them. Presenter: Laura Peddicord, Katy Area Support Group Leader & Board of Directors Attention Deficit Disorders Association - Southern Region
Technology and Testing are Killing my Child’s Imagination! In a world full of creative technology, it can be hard to encourage children to proactively use their imaginations on paper. Learn specific techniques to get on a child’s psychological and creative level in order to break through boredom and writer’s block, all while building self-esteem through reading, writing and imaginative play. Presenter: Melissa Williams, President and Founder READ3Zero Literacy Foundation
The Art of Presiding. Learn how to do it without fears or tears. Opportunity for role playing. Presenter: Kirk Overbey, Parliamentarian Texas PTA
The Cloud is Your Friend! Overwhelmed with keeping track of paperwork, files, and notes? Lugging around big binders relevant to your job duties or do you have tons of digital files scattered throughout emails and your computer? Let the cloud help! Participants will learn how to effectively use Dropbox and other cloud based software to save and share important documents. Presenter: Amanda Banda, President Harlingen City Council PTA
The Facts of Lice Head lice are coming to a school near you! Did you know that children with LIVE lice will be permitted to remain at school? Learn the proper identification of lice and their nits, the do’s and don’ts of environmental cleaning, and the safest way to prevent
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Time to Build Your Team! You have a new board, what’s next? Recognize the potential that can be realized if you are aware of your boards strengths and needs and learn some helpful tools that will allow you to start the year off on the right foot with your new board. Presenter: Scott Brown, Field Service Representative Texas PTA
To Lead or Not to Lead (Part I) I was told I’m a leader. Am I? I keep looking for new leaders. I constantly hear that PTA needs strong leaders. So what are the traits of a good leader? How can I become a better leader? How do I surround myself with good leaders? How do I avoid becoming a “blah” leader? Part I of this two-session workshop will address how to maximize our strengths and to further develop our skills to become even greater leaders. Presenter: Kyle Ward, CAE, Executive Director Texas PTA
To Lead or Not to Lead (Part II) This is a follow up to Part I. Now we will explore how to attract great leaders and to take our PTA from ordinary to extraordinary. What are the barriers to attracting and retaining effective leaders? How can our PTA modify just a bit to create an environment that knows how to hold ‘em? Let’s talk about creating a culture where great leaders have to take a number to be a part of our PTA! Presenter: Kyle Ward, CAE, Executive Director Texas PTA
Viendo Crecer a Nuestros Hijos y PTA con A.M.O.R. - Growing your Children With Love. Una guía de participación masculina para escuelas y el PTA Este taller tendrá estrategias del PTA nacional que le ayudara a crecer su membresía y participación masculina crecer PTA. Aprenda técnicas para atraer más caballeros a la escuela y comunidad para aumentar el éxito académico para todos los niños. Panelistas invitados también podrán compartir programas y recursos para ayudar a crear una plataforma para conectar con los caballeros y se basará en la misión de PTA. This Spanish workshop will share National PTA’s strategies to grow male membership and engagement in National PTA. Learn ways to bring more men to the schoolyard and community to increase the social and academic success of all children. Presenter: Manuel Perez, Member National PTA Male Engagement Committee
WatchDOGS (Dads of Great Students) Papas de gran estudiantes. WatchDOGS (Presented in English and Spanish) “Featured on the TODAY Show” WATCH D.O.G.S. ® is an innovative program focusing on education and safety in schools by using the positive influence of fathers and father-figures to provide an extra set of eyes and ears to enhance school security and to provide positive and active male role-models for the students. Fathers, stepfathers, grandfathers and uncles are asked to spend at least one day working as a volunteer during the school year. Presenter: Manuel Perez, National Coordinator WatchDOGS
Where Does Gifted Education Stand? This session will provide an overview of how to be an effective advocate for gifted education. A primary focus of the workshop will include a detailed look at the Texas State Plan for the Education of Gifted/Talented Students and what it requires of school districts, particularly in light of the requirements of House Bill 5. Discover how parents can use this plan, along with some common-sense strategies, to be a strong advocate for appropriate educational services for gifted children in their community. Presenter: Tracy Weinberg, Associate Director Texas Association for the Gifted and Talented (TAGT)
Where’s the T in PTA? How to reach your school’s teachers “I AM a teacher, so please, don’t bother me with PTA ‘stuff’.” “I’m too busy!” Learn how PTA changed the typical teacher’s attitude of avoiding extra responsibilities into a clear awareness of the impact in students’ achievement, behavior, and future. This is how we revive our teacher’s commitment. Presenter: Oswaldo Rivera-Ortiz, Architect and Teacher, PTA President Forest Lane Academy PTA
Why Should I Care? What do you say when a parent or teacher asks why he or she should care about the PTA or what it accomplishes? How do you market PTA to potential members and volunteers? Gain some quick and easy tips about how to craft your message and increase your membership!
Will you DARE to join our Title I School PTA? Are your parents and teachers ‘scared’ of joining PTA? How can you increase your membership, let’s say 400%, when no one seems to share the urgency to support PTA? Go deep identifying who the target future members are in a Title I school, and how to bring them on board! Presenter: Oswaldo Rivera-Ortiz, Architect and Teacher, PTA President Forest Lane Academy PTA
Would You Like Taxes with That? When do I collect? When do I file? I thought I was tax exempt? Collecting and remitting sales tax is an important function of any non-profit association. Whether it’s items in your silent auction, catalog fundraiser or spirit-wear sale, learn all you need to know to make quick work of your sales tax requirements and keep your PTA in good standing with the State of Texas. Presenter: Texas PTA
Y esos padres, ¿no hablan inglés? Cómo derribar la barrera del idioma y aumentar su membresía “Yo no me meto a eso de la PTA por que no sé inglés.” Si a los padres de su escuela les intimida la barrera del idioma, aquí encontrarán refugio e ideas para sobrepasar este obstáculo. Aprenda como aumentar su membresía y número de voluntarios adaptando estos pasos. Presenter: Oswaldo Rivera-Ortiz, Architect and Teacher, PTA President Forest Lane Academy PTA
Yes, You Can! Yes, You Can! is an educational and motivational program created by Lloyd Bachrach, who -- although physically challenged – has never let anything slow him down. His candid and compelling story reaches the hearts and minds of all audience members. The Yes, You Can! message provides the audience with 5 keys to success; 1) Build high self-esteem 2) Focus with a positive attitude 3) Set Goals 4) Persevere 5) Maintain a healthy mind, body and spirit. These keys help students to succeed and realize their full potential. Presenter: Lloyd Bachrach, President Yes, You Can! Motivational Programs
Presenter: Sharon Goldblatt, Past President/Board Member Texas PTA/National PTA
Why You’re Not a Leader They can’t be talking about me, can they? Take a light hearted opportunity to view leadership from a more engaging perspective. Understand the skills needed to build a motivated, working team and the contrast between leadership and management. Presenter: Deb Fritz, National Service Representative National PTA
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