Normally I try to avoid these conversations but...
(1) We should not make assumptions why someone is making an inquiry or their level of knowledge. Not giving background could mean they are genuinely looking for honest answers to help for the greater good. Forums are a great place to survey people's honest thoughts.
(2) PTA is
not a "fundraising organization" by mission but unfortunately that is what many have become. No where in their mission and value statement are funds or finances even mentioned. In our state the fundraising became so much the driving force in local's agendas (to buy luxury items like fancy playgrounds and velvet stage curtains, or thousands on a fenced garden with a replica birdhouse of Monticello - really?) that rules had to be set in place to limit the number of fundraisers and the amount of money that was carried in banks. It's sad when it becomes about money for things rather than advocacy for all the children. If fundraising is the basis for any PTA then maybe it's time to re-evaluate.
(3) "The overall purpose of PTA is to make every childs potential a reality by engaging and empowering families and communities to advocate for all children." It says
all children but, and I've seen it, many times the children with special needs are often not incorporated into their plan. Absolutely not expecting to be singled out for special treatment, only to be considered when planning is happening as to a PTA agenda. I have seen where self-contained special ed classrooms are actually left out of PTA offerings because the assumption was made that the students could not appreciate the program or that they already get more money from the state so why should PTA help with program supplies. That is singling out.
I spent many years involved in PTA at 3 elementary, 1 middle, 2 high school, the council and state level. The families of special needs students are often on the outside of PTA for various reasons. Since my earlier post I have learned that the PTA Reflections program now has a Special Artists division that seems to be following the program I set up here many years ago, and I am thrilled. Inclusiveness by PTA in their programming could go a long way in encouraging and helping parents advocate.
One of our high schools had an incredible Special Needs committee with monthly speaker meetings to help parents through the process. My other high school - zero! Their focus is Talented and Gifted. The Special Ed route is complex and scary and sometimes it's parent vs school. And often it's because parents do not know their rights or choices - PTA could help advocate for those children if nothing else with educational presentations and speakers, costing virtually nothing but invaluable to the parents who need information. No expectation that PTA is working for or helping any individual. Merely empower the local units to truly advocate for all with information.
PTA says "We are dedicated to promoting childrens health, well-being, and educational success through strong parent, family, and community involvement." Our special children become special adults. The more we know as they grow about services, options, inclusive programming etc, the more productive and successful they will be. Sometimes parents feel so alone in the school system, alone in the PTA meetings, alone when their child isn't included in the thought process of PTA events ....Yes, it is up to us to volunteer and help bring about inclusion, but when you feel your child already does not fit their mold and you might be just one person, it's hard. Due to confidentiality, mainstreaming and other issues many parents of children with special needs don't even know who the other parents of special needs students in their school are. I'm sorry it can be hard to become involved when you feel you are one person and there is no fit for you or your child in your school's PTA agenda.
I think I understand the OP's question, how can PTA help to make their programs truly "every childs potential a reality." thus encouraging more involvement from their parents. Hopefully all PTAs will remember their last mission statement "
Integrity: We act consistently with our beliefs. When we err, we acknowledge the mistake and seek to make amends."
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