REMINDER: Submit your 2021-2022 PTA/PTSA officers to Missouri PTA (even if they are the same as last year) using the form at this link: https://mopta.org/…/missouri-pta-2021-2022-officers-form/

Register for National PTA Convention and don’t miss our local leaders (Sarah Whitten and Donna Petiford) present a workshop on Using Tech To Run Your PTA! Register now! Local leader https://www.pta.org/home/events/National-PTA-Convention-Expo

Catch all workshops virtually and participate in the live chat or review each workshop on your own time. You’ll have access to the virtual convention platform for 90 days.

President’s Message

Happy May Everyone!

Even with all we have had to handle, this year seems to have flown by. Thank you for hanging in there and continuing to move the PTA mission forward for all of our children and school communities.

Setting our PTAs up for success is crucial for the continued success of our association. A key component to this is planning and smooth transitions. After your elections, schedule a turn over meeting so each incoming officer has time to meet with the outgoing. This allows them to discuss the role, share successes, challenges, ideas for the future, and have time to turn over all materials to the incoming leader. If you need any assistance with this, we at Springfield Council of PTAs stand ready to assist you. You are never alone, we have all faced great challenges and together will move forward!

As always please reach out to me at president@scptamo.com with any concerns or questions you may have.

Please remember to submit your officers to Missouri PTA
https://mopta.org/home-2/missouri-pta-2021-2022-officers-form/. This is vital to our communication to you from us on Council and also to Missouri PTA as well. If you only have one officer, that is okay, please submit and then add as you gain new officers.

Thank you so much for all that you give: your time and talents. Your support this year has been wonderful! You are appreciated. Enjoy these last few weeks of school and give yourself a pat on the back!

Best Wishes, Mandy

*2020-2021 SCPTA President’s notes:

Due to COVID-19 pandemic and concerns, this school year was incredibly different. The district began the year with hybrid learning, then returned to 4 days and eventually 5 seated days. The district allowed no visitors to enter any school buildings during the 2020-2021 school year.

A slow PTA year but we are looking forward to renewing our efforts in the 2021-2022 school year. For many, COVID-19 has meant the needs of our school community have changed and had PTA refocusing and responding to—and supporting—those needs. Everyone has learned so much about how to communicate in a virtual world.

Every in-person meeting and event was cancelled due to the Covid 19 pandemic and occupancy restrictions. I was able to create a master calendar and hold monthly general and executive board meetings via Zoom.

The Clothing Bank re-opened late fall and went on a modified schedule and I (Mandy Mitchell) was able to volunteer at every open day.

Attendance to SPS Board of Education meetings was limited; however, I was able to watch live via YouTube. Missouri PTA hosted monthly phone meetings and I was able to attend and share with other leaders across the state to strategize and strengthen our efforts to serve our schools. I was honored to be in contact with and guide many local PTA leaders through challenging times as we reinvented the way we PTA.

Treasurer’s Report and Tips for Treasurers

The detailed Treasurer’s Report can be found at Moneyminder.com
Username: council@scptamo.com Password: SCPTA.658

*2020-2021 Treasurer’s Notes: As treasurer, I (Becky Volz) managed and balanced the four SCPTA bank accounts with monthly reconciliations, uploading to MoneyMinder and transferring all PayPal transactions as well as writing checks for budgeted items and reimbursements. I have maintained our status and reports to the IRS, MO-SOS, and MOPTA. I have communicated with and assisted units on their “units-in-good-standing” status and updated all SPS principals contact info. I have assisted several treasurers with their reports and processes. I have maintained communication with our bank manager and accounts representative. I have provided monthly treasurer reports. 

Please remember to plan for an audit/review of your PTA/PTSA financial records at the end of your fiscal year (usually mid-July is a good time to plan for this).

Excess Funds

There is no ruling from the IRS or National PTA that limits the amount of money that a PTA may carry over to the next budget year. No PTA board has the authority to write checks to the school or the principal for un-budgeted items to “clean out” the accounts. Expenditures must be approved by the general membership at a meeting. Every PTA should try to leave sufficient funds for leadership training for new board members (i.e., Council/Regional training, State PTA Convention or National PTA Convention), startup expenses for the new school year, etc. Funds not spent in one budget year should be included in the new budget.

Emergency Reserve

The emergency reserve fund is considered an integral part of each PTA’s planning and budget process. This fund is intended to serve as a means to retain financial stability in the event of an unforeseen circumstance such as unplanned expenses arising from a project or an unexpected increase in inflation. As a rule, a healthy reserve is between one-half to one full year’s average expenditures.

Using Your Budget

Throughout the year, the Finance Committee is responsible for tracking the actual results and comparing them to the budget. Whenever a new opportunity arises to further the mission of the PTA (e.g., running an un-budgeted activity or obtaining sponsor funding), the Finance Committee should carefully weigh whether it should be undertaken. Ideally, an un-budgeted activity should have a positive or neutral impact on the PTA’s overall budget.

Amending Your Budget

The budget is only an estimate of the planned expenditures for the year. When there are additional expenses or a change in an allocated expenditure, the budget may need to be amended by a vote of the association at any regular meeting, or at a special meeting called for that purpose. Check your bylaws for specific guidance.

https://www.pta.org/local-leader-kit/finance/budgeting-special-funds

Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion

The first season of 10 Minutes to PTA the Transformative Way is dedicated to topics related to diversity, equity and inclusion! Tune in to learn from PTA leaders and experts in the field of ways you can make your PTA efforts more equitable.

New videos come out every Monday, so make sure to subscribe and turn on notifications. 

After watching each week’s video of 10 Minutes to PTA the Transformative Way, be sure to check out the reflection questions and related resources attached to each episode.

*2020-2021 Diversity and Inclusion Advisor notes:

I (Toi Allen) attended Diversity and Inclusion meetings for The Equity and Diversity Advisory Community Council committee. This committee provided the SPS Equity Diversity and Inclusion Department with suggestions to help provide the necessary feedback to complete the work towards the newly added focus 5 for the strategic plan of the school district. This part of the plan are goals for accomplishments connected to the cultural awareness and relevant education experiences for our schools with an intentional focus on historically underrepresented and under resourced groups (HUGs)

This work was driven by Dr. Yvania A.Garcia-Pusateri and her team in the SPS – Department of Equity & Diversity with support by administration and the Board of Education. Focus V is made up of 5 strategies and is focused on the following initiatives:

• Facilitating district-wide professional learning for staff and leaders focused on equity and diversity 
• Developing and deploying improved recruitment, collaboration and communication structures to diversify the workforce
• Improving and expanding programming for underrepresented and under-resourced students
• Reviewing and expanding the curriculum to reflect student identities, lived experiences and cultural contributions
• Deploying engagement and advocacy policy, practices and programs that support students, staff and the broader community.

The last strategy speaks to engaging with the community and one of the ways that was completed was to establish a Community Equity & Diversity Advisory Council.

The advisory council meet 4 times during the year (October, December, February, and April) and due to Covid-19, the meetings were conducted via zoom.

These meetings were led by Dr. Yvania and Mr. Jimi Sode who serves as the Coordinator III – Equity & Diversity, Workforce Development in the Department of Equity & Diversity.

These meetings provided updates on district equity and diversity progress and initiatives as well as sought feedback from the advisory committee for the district regarding current initiatives for underrepresented and under-resourced students.

This work cannot be done or be successful in isolation, and it is important to  work collaboratively with PTAs, Champions within our schools and community to enhance the learning environment of our students as well as the climate and culture of our district.

SCPTA’S Diversity and Inclusion Committee put together a movie to show Diversity and Inclusion efforts by encouraging all to Listen, Educate, and Advocate for ALL our students. The goal is to invoke necessary conversations to help advocate where ever there is a need within our district.  

The PTA Clothing Bank

Because of our unique year, we are carrying our shopping through May. We will be open May 6^th and May 20^th, 10am- 4:30pm. A summer shopping date is TBD.

If you have any questions, please contact us via Facebook and watch our page for updates.

Thank you for your support of The PTA Clothing Bank and students of SPS!

*2020-2021 PTA Clothing Bank notes:

What a unique but great year we’ve had at The Clothing Bank! We got a late start this year as we waited for our COVID-19 guidelines, but we still logged around 1,200 student visits and approximately 700 winter coats went out the door! Our partners at the Kiwanis shoe bank provided around 600 pairs of shoes. Thank you to all the volunteers, SPS employees, and shoppers who adjusted and adapted with us along the way and kept things rolling! (Taryn Raidel, VP of Health and Public Services)

*2021-2021 Program, Promotion, and other Organizational notes:

*Reading is FUNdamental (RIF): RIF books were organized for one distribution of the 2020-21 school year. Extra care was implemented by sorting books by school and classroom teacher. Once sorted, the books were placed in plastic bags, boxed, and delivered to school for a holding period, then given directly to the classroom for 1st, 2nd, and 3rd grade students to pick out a book. Virtual students were able to pick up their book in their drive-thru lunch line. (3rd graders received books as a makeup from last spring as 2nd Graders when schools closed early due to Covid) (facebook.com/RIFSpringfield)

*4th Grade Play (cancelled in 2020-2021 due to Covid restrictions for theaters)

*Reflections: This year’s theme was “I Matter Because…”. We had 41 entries from 5 schools. 14 entries placed in the state competition. One entry was honored with a National PTA Award of Excellence: Photography – Intermediate – Ilyann Khan, Greenwood Laboratory School PTA; “Don’t Forget Your Roots”.

Next year’s theme will be “I will change the world by….”

*Founder’s Day: Our annual Founder’s Day event was cancelled due to Covid meeting restrictions.

*Scholarships and Special Funds: SCPTA donated $500 to each High School for Project Graduation. $100 in CARE Funds were given to Units in good standing who applied (Bingham, Delaware, Disney, Field, Fremont, Harrison, Hickory Hills Elem, Jeffries Elem, Pittman Elem, Pleasant View Elem, Wilder). $200 in McBride Funds were given to units in good standing who applied (Central HS, Glendale HS, Hillcrest HS, Kickapoo HS, Parkview HS, Cherokee MS, Hickory Hills MS, Pershing MS, Pipkin MS, Pleasant View MS, Reed Academy).

*Legislation and Advocacy: In March, we were able to host a school board candidate’s forum via Zoom for the 7 candidates running for 3 open seats in April 2021. All 7 candidates were in attendance as well as 40 attendees from units and council. We shared our recorded Zoom candidates forum on our Facebook social media platform and it was subsequently shared by the candidates and our units and had over 6,500 “people reached”. (Scott Crise, Danielle Kincaid, and Dr. Maryam Mohammadkhani were elected to the SPS Board of Education in April 2021). We also kept the units informed of important legislative activity in our state. Our Legislative Chair, Donna Petiford, was able to attend both National PTA’s Annual Conference in July 2020, and National PTA’s Legislative conference (LegCon) in March 2021 via a virtual platform. As part of LegCon, Donna participated in Capital Hill visits with Missouri PTA representatives, advocating for additional funding for school infrastructure, Covid relief funds for schools, and support for mental health resources for schools.

*Parliamentarian: Following suggestions from Missouri PTA, Springfield Council of PTAs adopted bylaws amendments for government imposed actions (such as meeting restrictions due to Covid) and adopted standing rules for Zoom meetings. Other Parliamentary tips and resources were included in the newsletters and updated on Council’s website.

*Denotes 2020-2021 Historical Notes

District News

Projects for the 2019 Proposition S bond issue are ahead of schedule and under budget. On April 2, 2019, 61.22% of Springfield Public Schools’ voters approved an 18-cent increase to the debt-service levy to fund 39 high-priority projects. The projects include renovations, expansion, and/or new construction for six schools and the creation of safer entrances at 31 schools. Space to add early childhood classrooms will be created at three locations. The $167.73 million bond addresses safety, accessibility, and quality issues. (sps.org/Page/4890)

All building entrance safety issues have been addressed.

A newly constructed Delaware Elementary School opened for students. The 68,000 square foot school has 27 classrooms and multiple spaces for groups of all sizes. As Delaware continues to be a hub for students of all learning abilities, there are no steps throughout the entire building.

The newly constructed Adah Fullbright Early Childhood Education Center was opened for students.

New and renovated space was opened for students at Sunshine Elementary. A phase 2 of renovations for Sunshine Elementary are in progress.

New construction is underway for the students at Williams Elementary, Boyd Elementary, Hillcrest High School, and Jarrett Middle School. Due to cost savings, 2 additional projects were approved: new construction at York Elementary, and new construction for Pipkin Middle School. (facebook.com/FriendsOFSPSMO)

Dr. Grenita Lathan was hired as the new superintendent to replace Dr. John Jungmann who retires this year. Read more about Dr. Lathan here: https://drive.google.com/file/d/1_DZtqvnbn6GFf6A4cyhUBOMgcGAudglI/view

The last day of this school year is set for May 27th with a 2 hours early release.

May 6 – PTA Clothing Bank open for shoppers and donations

May 20 – Springfield Council of PTAs Exec Board meeting – 9:15 am via Zoom

May 20 – PTA Clothing Bank open for shoppers and donations

May 27 – Last day of school (2 hour early release)

June 7 – 30 Explore! Session 1 (https://www.sps.org/explore)

July 7 – 30 Explore! Session 2

A summer shopping date for the PTA Clothing Bank will be added soon – follow us on Facebook for updates.

Missouri PTA Convention will be October 1st-3rd, 2021, and will be held in person in Colombia, MO. Make plans now to attend ($125 per individual).

Letter from the President

Hello! I cannot believe it is already the 4th quarter! This is a busy time of year with nominating committees, elections, and year end procedures. If you have any questions on how to complete any of these please reach out to Council @ president@scptamo.com.  We are here to help!

If you have completed elections, please submit officers for next year here: https://mopta.org/home-2/missouri-pta-2021-2022-officers-form/

If you have any vacant positions, that is okay, please submit what you have. It helps us keep connected and assure someone is getting up to date information.

When you vote in the coming days (Tue April 6) consider what you want the future of education to look like. Consider the impact on families and children when  you assess the candidates’ values.  Our children’s access to quality education and to the tools that will help them succeed, are in your, the voters, hands. This year and every year after,  let’s take the next step and make our voices heard.

Don’t forget to VOTE on April 6th.

It has been a trying year for all of us and I continue to be amazed by your creativity and resourcefulness during these unprecedented times. Please don’t hesitate to reach out to me if you need anything.

Please know that Council is here to support you and your unit. We are able to help with officer nominations, elections, changing and updating bylaws, audits, treasurer reports, budgets, and anything else you may need. Please don’t hesitate to reach out to me to discuss successes, frustrations, ideas or ways to improve.

See you on Zoom this Thursday April 1st at 9:30

Mandy Mitchell

President, Springfield Council of PTAs

president@scptamo.com www.scptamo.com

Check out 15 Free Volunteer Thank You Cards from our Friends at Moneyminder: Click Here!

PTA Clothing Bank

I hope everyone had a great Spring Break. We returned to The Clothing Bank March 25^th and had a great shopping day. We’re looking forward to our next one, April 8^th!

We have officially started transitioning our floor from winter to summer so we are looking for those warm weather items – shorts, tees, tanks, summer pajamas, etc. We have opened up donations at The Wash House or you may drop off at The Clothing Bank any time during shopping hours.

Our remaining days for the school year are April 8^th, April 22^nd, May 6^th, and May 20^th 10am- 4:30pm. We are also looking forward to offering a shopping date during Explore! We will share that date when we get it nailed down.

If you have any questions, please contact us via Facebook and watch our page for updates.

Thank you for your support of The PTA Clothing Bank and students of SPS!

Taryn Raidel, VP of Health and Public Services

Treasurer’s Report and Tips for Treasurers

The detailed Treasurer’s Report can be found at Moneyminder.com
Username: council@scptamo.com Password: SCPTA.658

End of Fiscal Year Financial Review

Now’s the time to form a committee to do an Internal financial review to review the financial records at the end of the fiscal year (after the final bank statement is issued – usually mid-June). Your PTA’s bylaws should indicate who, when, and how the audit/review is to be conducted and reported to your membership. Start by finding (usually) 3 members to form an Audit/Review Committee. None of the 3 can have been signers on the bank account. They will need to set aside 2 or 3 hours – or more if they run into problems – to do a thorough job. The mission of the Audit/Review Committee is to confirm, to the best of its ability, that the financial records prepared by the Treasurer accurately reflect the financial status of the organization. They will need to determine a time and a place that the audit can occur. It is best if the Treasurer is not present during the audit, but may need to be available to answer questions that come up. See this link on the National PTA website for more information about what documents need to be given to the committee and the steps to complete the review. Use the form on the Missouri PTA website (End of Year Procedures) to submit your report to your membership and to Missouri PTA. Once the review is completed, you’ll be ready to file your PTA’s appropriate tax return (a copy of which is also submitted to Missouri PTA).

I would encourage each unit to go to this link and download in your unit’s shared folder or print out for your treasurer’s binder. This is the MOPTA guidelines and instructions for treasurers. A lot of good information that will answer frequent questions as well as inform you of our PTA legal & federal status with the IRS as a 501(c)(3).  https://mopta.org/wp-content/uploads/2018/03/Missouri-PTA-Finances.pdf

If you’ve had any new memberships, be sure to send the portion to MOPTA by end of March (or asap). Feel free to email treasurer@scptamo.com with questions or if you need some help.  

Reflections Winners (City Level)

Reflections Winners (State Level)

Photography – Intermediate – 1^st Place: Ilyann Khan, Greenwood Laboratory School PTA

Photography – Middle School – 4^th Place:  Sophy Wicklam-Zhou, Central HS PTSA

Photography – High School – 2^nd Place: Hailey Youngblood, Central HS PTSA

Literature – Primary – 2^nd Place: Rachel Brawley, Wanda Gray PTA

Literature – Middle School – 4^th Place:  Keren Ding, Central HS PTSA

Literature – High School – 3^rd Place: Elana Hadi, Central HS PTSA

Literature – High School – 5th Place: Nina Musiyenko, Central HS PTSA

Visual Arts – Intermediate – 5^th Place: Eden Mitchell, Wanda Gray PTA

Visual Arts – Middle School – 3^rd Place: Grace Meyer, Central HS PTSA

Visual Arts – Middle School – 4^th Place: Keren Ding, Central HS PTSA

Visual Arts – Middle School – 5^th Place:  Minal Khan, Greenwood Laboratory School PTA

Visual Arts – High School – 2^nd Place: Madison Dimmick, Central HS PTSA

Visual Arts – High School – 3^rd Place: Nina Musiyenko, Central HS PTSA

Visual Arts – High School – 4^th Place: Karson Feuerbacher, Greenwood Laboratory School PTA

Springfield Reflections Leaders – Thank you for all you do for your students!

Teacher Appreciation Week May 3 – 7, 2021

While we often thank our teachers every day, it’s during Teacher Appreciation Week when we like to pause and really show our love for the teachers in our lives. We encourage you to tell your teacher how much you…

• Love (❤️) how they encourage you in special ways
• Like (👍) what’s happening in their classroom
• Celebrate (🎉) their achievements with students
• Care about (😍) their commitment to students and families

What will your PTA do to honor teachers this year? Join the conversation at

https://www.facebook.com/groups/PTALeader/permalink/2536192470020137

“We are doing a Super Hero theme this year – seems pretty fitting! A few things we will be doing: decorating the staff lounge, giving each staff a “super hero name”and putting it outside their classroom door, sending fill-in sheets home, “My teacher is a Super Hero because…” Lots of awesome ideas on Pinterest”

“…we will have a teacher drive thru and hand out swag bags to the teachers. Students are making signs for them to see as they drive by.”

“We are stealing an idea from a neighboring PTA which did a “Make a Wish” kind of thing. They got the teachers to put what they would wish for (for Christmas or Teacher Appreciation) and it could have been anything, a card, a cup of coffee, some learning materials for their class, and then converted that into a Signup genius and sent that to parents who signed up to fulfill a wish.  Easy for us, gets parents involved, saves our limited budget, although I’m thinking we may need to supplement a couple of wishes depending on the response.”

“We have a food truck coming. A few social media posts got us 1/3 of the total cost and then we sent home a flyer for donations.”  (Another posted about getting an Ice Cream Truck).

“… catered lunch and a snack day. Everything individually wrapped, ready for grab and go.”

From the Parliamentarian

Officer Transition–check your bylaws for direction on when officers assume duties of their new positions. If you are “passing the baton,” please plan for a smooth transition that is in the best interest of your PTA/PTSA and the students you represent.

• For more Parliamentary reminders and tips, check our website: https://scptamo.com/category/parliamentary-notes/ or https://scptamo.com/communication/parliamentarian-questions/

Diversity, Equity, & Inclusion

Introducing Listen, Educate, Advocate (our Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion mission). Listen to the new National PTA YouTube learning series, educate and share these with your PTA. Then, let’s make a plan to advocate:

New events added to the DEI calendar -> Check it out!

April 1 – SCPTA General Membership meeting via Zoom – 9:30 am

April 8 – PTA Clothing Bank open for shoppers and donations

April 15 – SCPTA Exec Board meeting – 9:15 am via Zoom

April 22 – PTA Clothing Bank open for shoppers and donations

May 6 – SCPTA General Membership meeting – 9:30 am via Zoom (SCPTA Officer Installation)

May 6 – PTA Clothing Bank open for shoppers and donations

May 20 – Springfield Council of PTAs Exec Board meeting – 9:15 am via Zoom

May 20 – PTA Clothing Bank open for shoppers and donations

Council Goals

1.  To provide leadership development for local units and council board members.

2. To serve as a resource for education, parenting information, and legislative issues.

3. To encourage parent and public involvement in the Springfield Public Schools.

To join the SCPTA board, fill out the “Talent Bank form” and send to council@scptamo.com.

Click here: SCPTAs Talent Bank Interest Finder

—————> Watch replay of March 4 Candidate Forum: Click Here

Letter from the President (SCPTA)

Hello, I hope this finds you well. It has been over a year since we have last seen one another and I am continually amazed at how you continue to serve your school and community.

As I look ahead to brighter days, I wonder what the future must have looked like for The Boyd School Mothers Circle in 1909, later to be “Springfield Council of the National Congress of Mothers and Parent-Teacher Associations”, today’s SCPTA as they were trying to solve an urgent health and sanitation problem. The community water buckets were being shared with a stray dog!!

It has been a trying time for all of us and I thank you for your support. Please know that Council is here to support you and your unit. We are able to help with officer nominations, elections, changing and updating bylaws, audits, treasurer reports, budgets and anything else you may need. Please don’t hesitate to reach out to me to discuss successes, frustrations, ideas or ways to improve. I believe together we can continue to make a difference just as the women did together in 1909.

PTA is the largest volunteer led advocacy organization in the United States. I am honored to be a part of PTA and leave my mark on history. Won’t you join me?

Mandy Mitchell
President, Springfield Council of PTAs
417-496-8980 text/call | president@scptamo.com

Letter from the President (MOPTA)

Now is the time to elected officers! Please make sure you are forming nominating committees and inviting all your members to consider serving on your board. Do not forget to turn in your officers to Missouri PTA once they are elected!

Convention is coming October 1-3, 2021 at the Hilton Inn in Columbia, MO. As you create your budget consider adding a line for convention. This weekend is full of valuable training and networking opportunities with units just like you from across Missouri.

SB55 is still on the calendar for the Senate. It is not too late to contact your state senator and let the know to vote NO to this omnibus bill that will forever change education in Missouri. For more information contact Paula McKinney MO PTA, VP of Legislation and Advocacy or visit the Missouri PTA webpage: JC/DC Critical Issue Alert!

Carla Wiese, President,  Missouri PTA carlaw@mopta.org

From the National PTA President

Listen to National PTA President Leslie Boggs’ podcast on meeting students’ mental health needs during the pandemic:

Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion

National PTA is now accepting applications for the 2021 Jan Harp Domene Diversity and Inclusion Award. The application deadline is March 14 at 11 p.m. EST, 8 p.m. PST. The Award recognizes PTAs that best demonstrate outstanding achievement in the areas of diversity and inclusion, as well as efforts to end discriminatory practices.

This award will be presented to one state PTA, one district/council/region PTA and one local PTA at the 2021 National PTA Convention & Expo in June.

Share how your PTA has championed diversity & inclusion for a chance to WIN $1,000!

New! Multicultural Calendar
The rich diversity in our communities is reflected in the observances celebrated by various cultures and populations. National PTA’s Center for Family Engagement has created this Multicultural Calendar to highlight and celebrate the diversity in our PTA and school communities! 2021 Multicultural Calendar

Challenge for March 2021

Use your answers to these questions to help gain knowledge of how to better understand and assist students and to develop a more inclusive atmosphere:

1. In what ways might poverty/class have an impact on students experience.

2. How might race impact student experience?

3. Between Poverty and Race, which might have the greatest impact on students experience?

Don’t forget to visit our Diversity, Equity, & Inclusion webpage for this month’s report from SCPTA’s Diversity Advisor, Toi Allen.

The PTA Clothing Bank

I cannot believe Spring Break is upon us. February went by in the blink of an eye. On the 4^th we welcomed several shoppers. It was great to see so many faces. Mother Nature changed our course the next two weeks. We returned to the Clothing Bank on the 25^th. We were not open, but we were joined by a group of young women enrolled in the Mercy BASE program. They helped, sort, stock, clean and prepare for our next shopping day. It was a great pleasure having them over.

We will be open March 4^th 12-4:30 and March 25^th 10-4:30. Also, you may drop off donations during these times. Other tentative dates are April 8 & 22; May 6 & 20.

If you have any questions, please contact us via Facebook and watch our page for updates.

Thank you for your support of The PTA Clothing Bank and students of SPS!

Taryn Raidel, VP of Health and Public Services

Treasurer’s Report and Tips for Treasurers

Bank account reconciliation helps you compare your financial records to your bank account to ensure you are entering everything accurately. It can help uncover mistakes so you can ensure you’re maintaining accurate records. Reconciling your bank account also helps to prevent fraud. How often should you reconcile your books – every month. Errors such as number transpositions, forgetting to record a transaction or recording one twice can throw your books off balance. If you wait too long to correct these issues, it can be a real chore to track them down months in the future.

Be sure to send National/State PTA dues to the state office for all dues collected. The number of memberships sold should balance to the number paid to MOPTA for the school year. Use the dues reporting form and new MOPTA address: PO BOX 30545, Columbia, MO 65205.

From the Parliamentarian

March is election of officers month. Once the officers have been elected at the general meeting, whether they are new officers or returning officers, their names must be sent to the State PTA Office so the officers will receive the information they will need to perform the duties of their office. Please use the form on the Missouri PTA website to communicate your new officers’ names and contact information.  

You may find the use of a script helpful in running the election of officers.  Please check your bylaws for the proper procedure and refer to this tool if necessary:  https://scptamo.files.wordpress.com/2013/09/electionscript.pdf

● If a nominee for an office cannot be found, the nominating committee must continue to function until a suitable candidate is found or until the election.
● If a candidate withdraws prior to the election, the nominating committee must resume its search for an appropriate candidate.
● If a person is elected to office and later withdraws, the filling of the office is handled as listed on the bylaws for any vacancy in office, usually by the officers of the board.

SCPTA 2021-2022 Officer Nominees

President – Mandy Mitchell

VP of Organization and Development – Bill Peterson

VP of Health and Public Services – Taryn Raidel

VP of Programs – Jessica Rosa

VP of Promotions – Heather Buckner

Treasurer – Becky Volz

Secretary – Sarah Whitten

To read bios of candidates for Council Officers, please see this link > Council Officer Candidates Pictures/Bios

March 4 – SCPTA General Meeting – SCPTA Officer Election and School Board Candidates’ Forum – 9:30am via Zoom

March 4 – PTA Clothing Bank open for shoppers and donations

March 9 – 11 National PTA Legislative Conference

March 11 – SCPTA Exec Board meeting – 9:15 am via Zoom

March 15 – 19 SPS Spring Break!

March 21 – SCPTA Reflections Winners Announced!

March 25 – PTA Clothing Bank open for shoppers and donations

March 31 – Send New Officer Information to Missouri PTA

April 1 – SCPTA General Membership meeting via Zoom – 9:30 am

April 8 – PTA Clothing Bank open for shoppers and donations

April 15 – SCPTA Exec Board meeting – 9:15 am via Zoom

April 22 – PTA Clothing Bank open for shoppers and donations

May 6 – SCPTA General Membership meeting – 9:30 am via Zoom (SCPTA Officer Installation)

May 6 – PTA Clothing Bank open for shoppers and donations

May 20 – Springfield Council of PTAs Exec Board meeting – 9:15 am via Zoom

May 20 – PTA Clothing Bank open for shoppers and donations

Every Child. One Voice.

PTA’s mission is to make every child’s potential a reality by engaging and empowering families and communities to advocate for all children.

PTA Values

• Collaboration: We will work in partnership with a wide array of individuals and organizations to broaden and enhance our ability to serve and advocate for all children and families.
• Commitment: We are dedicated to children’s educational success, health, and well-being through strong family and community engagement, while remaining accountable to the principles upon which our association was founded.
• Diversity: We acknowledge the potential of everyone without regard, including but not limited to: age, culture, economic status, educational background, ethnicity, gender, geographic location, legal status, marital status, mental ability, national origin, organizational position, parental status, physical ability, political philosophy, race, religion, sexual orientation, and work experience.
• Respect: We value the individual contributions of members, employees, volunteers, and partners as we work collaboratively to achieve our association’s goals.
• Accountability: All members, employees, volunteers, and partners have a shared responsibility to align their efforts toward the achievement of our association’s strategic initiatives.

   Email: president@scptamo.com  clothingbank@scptamo.com

 Mailing Address:  SCPTA, 1458 E Chestnut Expwy, Spfld, MO 65802
    Facebook:  Springfield Council of PTAs; PTA Clothing Bank; SCPTA President’s Network

Letter From the President

Greetings from Springfield Council! I can’t believe it has been a year since we have seen each other in person. I am so proud of each unit and how you have persevered and how you continually amaze me with your creative ways to support your schools. I am honored to be a part of this amazing group of leaders. I encourage you to keep pressing forward and reinvent the way you PTA. We on council are also pressing forward and doing the best we can to help in any way. During these slow times it is a great idea to review your bylaws and update if needed and also look at any areas that may need improvement.

It is also nominating committee time for all units and Council. Council has elected a nominating committee, which is always made up of a representative from each of the five high school attendance areas, with the chair being one of the elected officers from the Council executive committee. Council elections will be held in March. If you need help or have questions about your nominations or committee please contact me at president@scptamo.com.

There will be no traditional Founders Day banquet this year, but we would like to honor your PTA. Please send a picture of your unit holding a Zoom meeting, clothing drive, dropping off supplies, anything your unit has done and let us honor you. Please send a picture to president@scptamo.com.

Thank you for your commitment to PTA and your school this year. Never hesitate to reach out for more information.

Mandy Mitchell, President, Springfield Council of PTAs

“Start where you are. Use what you have. Do what you can.” – Arthur Ashe

Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion

SCPTA has added a page to our website (https://scptamo.com/diversity-equity-inclusion-resources/) full of resources to assist with change that will present Diversity, Equity, and INCLUSION as the “New Normal” to offer understanding, love, and respect of our brothers and sisters from other moms and dads, with like-minded goals but different cultures. Advocating for ALL our kiddos. Many have gone before us to prepare the way and we celebrate their efforts and take our hats off to everyone invested in life-long learning,  time, energy , as well as provisions  that help advocate for ALL kids and their welfare.

National PTA spoke to Melissa Giraud and Andrew Grant-Thomas, founders of EmbraceRace, to learn how to approach conversations about race with young children. Click below to listen to this episode of “Notes From The Backpack/A PTA Podcast”:

Thank you to National PTA for providing us with a conversation about race and justice geared towards our kids.  Get comfortable; grab a cup of coffee, or your favorite beverage, lean in and listen. Take a few notes, add them to your daily conversations.  It will take a little digging to get a better understanding of our neighbors as a whole but, we can do it.

Here are more VOICES and resources on the topic of Racism:

How to Talk About Race and Justice in America

National PTA Diversity and Inclusion Outreach Group

National PTA is now accepting applications for the 2021 Jan Harp Domene Diversity and Inclusion Award.

The Jan Harpe Domene Diversity and Inclusion Award recognizes PTAs that best demonstrate outstanding achievement in the areas of diversity and inclusion, as well as efforts to end discriminatory practices.

Share how your PTA has championed diversity & inclusion for a chance to WIN $1,000! This award will be presented to one state PTA, one district/council/region PTA and one local PTA at the 2021 National PTA Convention & Expo in June.

Treasurer’s Report and Tips for Treasurers

The detailed Treasurer’s Report can be found at Moneyminder.com

Username: council@scptamo.com Password: SCPTA.658

Are you holding regular meetings and having a Treasurer’s Report at every meeting? This ensures proper systems are in place and will show the financial position of your organization at any point in time. 

Are you ensuring that a board member that is not a signer on the bank account verifies bank statements against the treasurer’s report every month and that you have this person sign the bank statement to show that they have done this?  This is a requirement of your PTA insurance and your insurance is invalid if you are not following this procedure every month.

PTA Clothing Bank

For the health and safety of our clothing bank volunteers, we decided to ease our way into 2021. We had our first shopping day on January 21^st. It was a slow day, which we were grateful for. It was a sign that needs had been met across the district prior to and during our extended holiday break. We expect things to pick up in the following weeks. Second semester means everyone now qualifies for their second round of socks and underwear and many will hit their mid-year growth spurt.

We are finally catching up with the amazing amount of donations we have received these last few months. We still cannot thank everyone enough. For the time being, donations at The Wash House will remain closed, but we are accepting them at the clothing bank on Thursdays. Please Facebook message us if you have any questions about drop off times.

 If everyone remains healthy and free of quarantine, the clothing bank will be open February 4^th and 18^th. We look forward to seeing what the rest of this unique school year has in store for us. Thank you for remaining dedicated to the students of SPS!

Taryn Raidel, VP of Health and Public Services

Report of the Nominating Committee

Slate of Officers for 2021-2022 (election to be held in March):

President – Mandy Mitchell

VP of Organization and Development – Bill Peterson

VP of Health and Public Services – Taryn Raidel

VP of Programs – Jessica Rosa

VP of Promotions – Heather Buckner

Treasurer – Becky Volz

Secretary – Sarah Whitten

To read bios of candidates for Council Officers, please see this link > Council Officer Candidates Pictures/Bios

Currently, 7 candidates are vying for 3 school board seats in April. Join us for a Q&A forum to meet the candidates, March 4 during our SCPTA Council General Membership Zoom meeting beginning at 9:30 am.

Missouri PTA Zooming into Membership Event

Zooming into Membership Event
Thursday February 25th, 6:30 PM

Missouri PTA is excited to announce a 3rd special event in cooperation with the National PTA called Zooming into Membership (ZIM). This event will spotlight Local Units across the state to share ideas on retaining and increasing PTA membership. This month we will hear from National PTA and Missouri PTA leaders along with representatives from two Missouri units. Everyone will have time to share and ask questions. Click Here to register in advance for this meeting.  After registering, you will receive a confirmation email containing information about joining the meeting.

Missouri PTA’s New Mailing Address

Legislative Alert

Missouri PTA needs you to contact your Senator today and tell them to support PUBLIC SCHOOLS and vote NO on SB 55 (a combined Voucher and Charter Mega Bill with no local control or oversight). For more information and a sample letter to send to your State Senator (Sen. Lincoln Hough or Sen. Eric Burlison) please see this link: PTA TAKES ACTION

Notes from the Parliamentarian

Visit our Council Officer Resource page for Parliamentarian tips on running your PTA.

Basic Principles

Motions & Rules of Debate

Nominating Committee (part 1)

Nominating Committee (part 2) 

Feb 4 – Springfield Council of PTAs (SCPTA) General Meeting for all Springfield PTA units – 9:30 am via Zoom

Feb 4 – SCPTA Clothing Bank open – 10:00 am – 4:30 pm

Feb 18 – SCPTA Exec Board Meeting – 9:15 am via Zoom

Feb 18 – SCPTA Clothing Bank open – 10:00 am – 4:30 pm

Feb 21 – SCPTA Reflections Winners Announced

Feb 25 – Missouri PTA Zooming into Membership Event

March 4 – SCPTA General Meeting – SCPTA Officer Election and School Board Candidates’ Forum – 9:30am via Zoom

March 9 – 11 National PTA Legislative Conference

March 11 – SCPTA Exec Board meeting – 9:15 am via Zoom

March 15 – 19 SPS Spring Break!!

March 21 – Send New Officer Information to Missouri PTA

April 1 – SCPTA General Membership meeting via Zoom – 9:30 am

April 15 – SCPTA Exec Board meeting – 9:15 am via Zoom

May 6 – SCPTA General Membership meeting – 9:30 am via Zoom (SCPTA Officer Installation)

May 20 – Springfield Council of PTAs Exec Board meeting – 9:15 am via Zoom

Where to Find SCPTA…

   Email: president@scptamo.com clothingbank@scptamo.com

 Mailing Address:  SCPTA, 1458 E Chestnut Expwy, Spfld, MO 65802
    Facebook:  Springfield Council of PTAs; PTA Clothing Bank; SCPTA President’s Network

Letter from the President

Happy New Year! I hope this finds you healthy and recharged for the second half of the school year. I am looking forward to 2021 and the hope it brings with it. We will continue to hold our monthly meetings, learn new ways to PTA and be a support for your units. 

Council Goals:

• To provide leadership development for local units and council board members
• To serve as a resource for education, parenting information, and legislative issues
• To encourage parent and public involvement in Springfield Public Schools

If you have any questions or need help with filing any end of year paperwork please let us know and we can help you. 

Unfortunately there will be no formal Founders Day Banquet this year. We would like to recognize every unit and all your efforts for this historic year. Please send a picture of anything your unit has done. This could be a screenshot of your zoom meeting, a lunch you had delivered, an online activity you created, food or clothing drive – anything! Please send your picture and description to president@scptamo.com.

“No matter how hard the past, you can always begin again.” – Buddha

Best wishes and take care, Mandy 

Treasurer’s Report and Tips for Treasurers

The detailed Treasurer’s Report can be found at Moneyminder.com

Username: council@scptamo.com Password: SCPTA.658

Check out these 10 virtual fundraising ideas from our friends at Moneyminder:

1. Create a Donation Page
2. Set up a virtual 5K
3. Start an online shop
4. Host a virtual yard sale
5. Sell food safely
6. Partner with local organizations
7. Have a virtual Movie Party
8. Hold a contest
9. Amazon wishlist
10. Virtual celebrities

PTA Clothing Bank

2020 – What a year! We ended it with full hearts at The Clothing Bank. We were open December 3^rd and 17^th with no shortage of shoppers. A few parents and guardians were grateful to pick out items to wrap up in time for Christmas.

 We were still seeing plenty of winter coats out the door in December- approximately 500 for the school year. Thank you to all the PTA units and individuals who continue to hold drives, donate, and spread the word to make this possible.

Donations are still currently closed at The Wash House, but we are working to open them back up very soon. In the meantime, units can make appointments to drop off items directly by messaging our Facebook page. 

The Clothing Bank will start 2021 shopping on January 21^st, 10-4:30. We hope to continue opening every other week until Spring Break but will also continue to monitor the stages of COVID-19 in our community and make changes to the schedule as needed. As always, we will update our Facebook page the week of. Your shares are always appreciated.

Thank you for your continued support of The PTA Clothing Bank and students of SPS!.

Taryn Raidel, VP of Health and Public Services

Congratulations Field Elementary PTA!

Congratulations to Field Elementary PTA for receiving the National PTA Programs at Home Grant  – Healthy Hydration –  sponsored by Nestle Waters!  Field PTA was one of 30 PTAs in the country to be awarded this $1000 grant to educate families on the importance of drinking water.

Missouri PTA Membership Challenge

Missouri PTA is excited to announce a new contest open to all of our PTA units. Just sign up at least 25 members in a month and your unit will be automatically entered into a drawing. We will randomly select 2 units per month and they will win $25 in PTA swag AND will be featured on our Facebook page and website throughout the month. Contest will run every month through April and then we have something REALLY exciting planned for May (stay tuned!).

Missouri PTA Membership Matters Newsletter

Missouri PTA Teacher Education Scholarships

Do you know a high school senior who is considering a career in teaching? Missouri PTA awards Teacher Education Scholarships up to $500.00 per year for the purpose of educating students of outstanding ability and sincerity of purpose who will enter the teaching profession.

Missouri PTA Teacher Education Scholarships are open to any high school senior in a Missouri public high school with at least one PTA/PTSA unit in the school district in good standing.  (All Springfield High Schools are eligible). Only one application is accepted from each school.  The postmark deadline to apply is February 15.

These scholarships are awarded in May at recognition ceremonies and graduations.  All scholarship applications must be submitted to your school counselor, not the Missouri PTA office.  All scholarship applications should be turned into your school counselor by the deadline set by your high school counseling office.  For more information on scholarships contact your school counselor.

You may email the Missouri PTA at scholarships@mopta.org with any additional questions regarding scholarship opportunities available through the Missouri PTA.

Download Scholarship Application

National PTA STEM+Families Home Experiments

Don’t limit the STEM fun to school—bring the STEM excitement home and get the whole family involved in the fun. National PTA and Bayer have developed a series of hands-on activities families can do. PTAs can package the activities into STEM @ Home bundles for families.

https://www.pta.org/home/programs/stem/at-home

National PTA Legislative Conference

You won’t want to miss this opportunity to join in the conversation via this virtual event. Mark your calendar for the 2021 National PTA Virtual Legislative Conference (LegCon) March 9-11, 2021. Network with fellow PTA advocates, virtually meet with your members of Congress, hear PTA advocacy success stories and learn how to shape public policy on Capitol Hill and at home.

You’ll be joined virtually by your fellow PTA members and other passionate advocates who will share advanced advocacy skills and tactics to help PTA meet our policy goals.

Don’t miss the chance to expand your knowledge of the ins and outs of federal law, grow your advocacy skills, explore National PTA’s legislative priorities for the 117th Congress and virtually meet with your federal representatives on Capitol Hill.

Registration information will be open soon on the National PTA website.

https://www.pta.org/home/events/National-PTA-Legislative-Conference

How to be an Advocate

Plan a voter registration drive, or distribute voter information updates before April’s school board election.

View http://www.pta.org/advocacy

Join the JC/DC Network – You can join online under the ‘Sign up for the JC/DC Network’ link at the bottom of the homepage on the Missouri PTA website for Missouri alerts and online at http://www.pta.org/advocacy for National alerts.

Share National PTA and Missouri PTA legislative alerts with your PTA network.

Check out the PTA One Voice Blog – onevoice.pta.org.

Follow National PTA, Missouri PTA, and Springfield Council of PTAs on Facebook.

Do you tweet? Follow Missouri PTA (@MissouriPTA) and National PTA (@NationalPTA).

From the Parliamentarian

The nominating committee is assigned the task of finding the best possible candidate to
recommend for each of the offices of the PTA to be filled. Such recommendations are based on
an objective evaluation of the needs of the PTA.

The committee should have copies of the bylaws, membership list, a realistic description
of the duties of each office, and a nominating committee procedure guide.

After the nominating committee is elected, the committee should review the bylaws to verify the
date of the election meeting, notice of the election meeting, when the nominating committee
report is published and requirements for additional nominations from the floor.

For more information about the nominating committee, see the website under Parliamentarian Tips (Nominating Committee Part 1 and Part 2).

Reading is Fundamental

We could use some help January to set out the books, help put in the book plates, and sort the books and motivational sheets into the bags for the 1^st and 2^nd grade classrooms .  If your school has a person who would like to serve as RIF coordinator for your school and/or volunteer just email me.  We have some funding from National RIF, but donations from PTAs would be greatly appreciated. 

Contact Peggy Stepp at: rifspringfieldmo@gmail.com

Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion

We’ve added a page to our website dedicated to Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI). This special page includes resources from National PTA, monthly calendars that include special celebrations for DEI, links to SPS resources, and updates from our DEI advisor, Toi Allen. Check it out: https://scptamo.com/diversity-equity-inclusion-resources/

Save the Date: March 4, 2021

For SCPTA’s School Board Candidates’ Forum

http://www.scptamo.com

https://www.facebook.com/SCPTAs https://www.facebook.com/ThePTAClothingBank

SCPTA President’s Network: https://www.facebook.com/groups/1631362246972323

SPS requests your feedback about an important transportation issue. Please share the link below with your school:

Your feedback is needed on a proposed plan to expand bus eligibility for high school students and those attending magnet schools. The expansion would require SPS to add a third tier to its transportation operation schedule, resulting in changes to school start/end times for the 2021-2022 school year.  The proposed three-tier structure must include a 60 minute gap between tiers in order for drivers to finish delivering students in one tier and begin the next tier on time. Estimated start and end times for each of the proposed options are provided below. Option A (View schools/programs by tier): Tier 1: Middle schools/K-8 schools and some programs – 7:30 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. Tier 2: High schools, some elementary schools, and BASE – 8:30 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. Tier 3: Remaining elementary schools, some programs and early childhood – 9:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Option B (View schools/program by tier): Tier 1: High schools, some elementary schools and BASE – 7:30 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. Tier 2: Remaining elementary schools and some programs – 8:30 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. Tier 3: Middle schools/K-8 schools, some programs and early childhood – 9:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Your feedback is needed on the options. Click on the SURVEY button below before 4:30 p.m., Thursday, Jan. 7. SURVEY Please note: The information provided is considered to be true and correct as of 12-16-20. Changes in circumstances may require adjustments to be made.

Dear Advocates for ALL children, it is imperative that Congress acts now to come to an agreement on a COVID relief package. Despite the record-breaking numbers for new COVID-19 cases each day, public schools continue to do the hard work to deliver education in virtual and in‐person settings. There are numerous critical needs that children, families, educators and public schools are facing which must be addressed in the next COVID relief package. National PTA continues to ask Congress to address five key areas: 1) funding to reopen schools safely, 2) increased support for Title I and IDEA, 3) dedicated funding for remote learning, 4) more resources for family engagement in education, and 5) increased funding for child nutrition programs.Public schools need resources now! Please contact your Members of Congress today and ask them to provide the critical funding needed to reopen schools. Take action by clicking the link below to go to National PTA website and fill out the form for action.

Take Action: Schools Need Resources Now!

Construction for the new $41 million Jarrett Middle School is officially underway!

Jarrett students, staff, and community members came together to celebrate the beginning of an extensive construction process. When complete in August 2022, the building will serve up to 725 students grades 6-8 in a 130,000-square-foot building (as compared to 80,000 square feet at its current facility).

“Over the next two years, this location will be transformed into the new Jarrett Middle School campus,” said Superintendent John Jungmann. “Previously located on a small site surrounded by the MSU campus and student housing, Jarrett students and staff will now have extensive greenspace for outdoor activities and extracurricular programs, along with modern, flexible learning spaces.”

The new Jarrett Middle School campus was previously home to Portland Elementary School. At the beginning of the 2020-2021 school year, Portland Panthers transitioned to a new home: a newly renovated and expanded Sunshine Elementary School.

Two current Jarrett students participated in the groundbreaking ceremony, sharing with the crowd their excitement for a school they’ll attend as eighth-graders. For Jeremy Jefferson, he can’t wait for the new basketball court. For Bailey, she’s excited to learn in a new space and see the teachers she has now in her school.

The new building will be designed to support STEAM mastery, with an emphasis on innovative spaces for science, technology, engineering, arts, and math. This curriculum focus will drive the new learning opportunities for Jarrett students, said Dr. Kirk Slater, Jarrett principal.

“We’re in the middle of the application process for this school, this building, to be a STEAM school,” said Dr. Slater. “So I’m excited about the potential of being able to serve so many kids in so many unique ways in a STEAM environment.”

In addition to better supporting students’ learning, the new Jarrett Middle School will be more accessible to students and families of all abilities, provide a safe room gymnasium, and expand space for outside extracurricular programming.

“Despite the many challenges that 2020 has brought, it’s been a year of celebrations related to Proposition S projects,” Superintendent John Jungmann said during the Jarrett groundbreaking (livestreamed) ceremony. “This fall, the first three major projects were completed and we were able to welcome new students into facilities for Adah Fulbright Early Childhood Center, Delaware Elementary, and Sunshine Elementary.”

More at sps.org https://www.sps.org/Page/4890

Letter from the President

As the end of the year draws near, I would like to first say Thank You! This has been  a year like no other, and one that won’t be forgotten. It has been a year filled with a  multitude of challenges, and you have adapted quickly to serve your school families.  Your passion and dedication has not gone unnoticed, and I appreciate each and every  one of you! No matter what the challenges have been, we have persevered together as  a team, and came out stronger. Often we find our greatest successes in the most  difficult of times, and I am sure it has been the same for you. 

Working together this past year has been a pleasure, and SCPTA is proud to have all  of you with us. Best wishes and happiness to you and your families over this festive  season. I am excited and hopeful to see what 2021 has in store for us.  

Happy Holidays! Mandy Mitchell 

To Do List: 
Today we are electing our Nominating Committee for Springfield Council. We need  one member from each of the five SPS High School attendance areas. The decision of  this committee will affect the future of your unit and council! This committee needs a  variety of people who are willing to really look at candidates for their merit, ability,  and courage to express ideas and defend their convictions. This is not a time  consuming committee, but an important one. Please consider helping us.  

“Develop an attitude of gratitude and give thanks for everything that happens to you, knowing that every step forward is a step toward achieving something bigger and better than your current situation.” —Brian Tracy

Treasurer’s Report and Tips for Treasurers

We’ve had slow transitions getting our units going this year but we can still get on track. If your unit had a slow start, or is waiting to get started, and you need help figuring it out, please let me know and we can go over what you have and what you need. 

These are the “must haves” to be in good standing (this allows your principals and students to be eligible for scholarships, reflections, programs, grants etc):

 1) annual dues paid to SCPTA / $35; 

2) a MOPTA financial review form completed and signed by 3 people who are not signers on the bank account and sent to MOPTA (email office1@mopta.org ); 

3) a Year End Report of your unit’s finances sent to MOPTA (this shows where your money came from and where it went. As a non-profit this is IRS required reporting).

4) IRS form 990 filed (use www.file990.org) Have your Unit ID ready. If you dont’ know it, ask us.

5) any dues you have received for your unit memberships must have the State and National portion sent monthly to MOPTA which is $4.25 per membership. This can be paid by check. Keep good records of your memberships. MOPTA has a form you can use. 

Other “do it now” items for treasurers includes getting any new signatures set up at your bank. Get your school year budget ready for your unit to vote on (a budget committee will do this as defined in your bylaws) if you haven’t already done this.

Remember: PTA fiscal year starts July 1st and ends June 30. Your reports should reflect transactions during this time; and your bylaws should identify this as your fiscal year. If your bylaws have other dates, let us know. That can be adjusted.

Thank you for serving your PTA!! Becky Volz, Treasurer (treasurer@scptamo.com)

PTA Clothing Bank

Reflections

Jessica Rosa, our Reflections Chair, got to Zoom with several of our Reflections schools during the three training sessions that she hosted this past month. We are off to a good start.

The Deadline for Reflections Entry Submissions is Tuesday, December 15th.

The Reflections Chair should gather the entries and entry forms from each participant prior to the deadline. We suggest making your school deadline a week or so before the December 15th deadline so you will have a chance to gather all the items needed.

Once you have all your entries and entry forms you can submit each entry and its pictures to both MOPTA.org (via your account log in) and SCPTA (by email to Reflections@scptamo.com, please include the school and student in the subject line, only one entry per email.)

Keep in mind that the awards or placement that a student receives here in Springfield will not automatically place them at state or national, Springfield Placement is just another way for us to honor our students locally.

Jessica and I are here to help, please contact us at Reflections@scpta.com and one of us will contact you. Check the website for updates. Christi Matthews, VP of Programs

Reading is Fundamental

We held the first distribution to the schools in October, we were able to make up sets of books for each 1^st, 2^nd, and 3^rd grade teacher, & give books to the lunch ladies for virtual students. The RIF president and David Harrison recorded a video that played to the students in the school as a kickoff. The reports we received from Dr. Methvin were that it was a great success and greatly appreciated.  The lunchroom staff loved being able to provide the choice of books to the students and their families.  The teachers have a lot on their plates, but they seemed happy to add this to their long lists of activities.

We have some funding from National RIF, but donations from PTAs would be greatly appreciated.  If some want to volunteer in January to help set out the books, help put in the book plates, and sort the books and motivational sheets into the bags to the 1^st and 2^nd grade classrooms they would be welcome.  If your school has a person who would like to serve as RIF coordinator for your school and/or volunteer just email me.  As I said, it is a challenge, and we are up to it!

Contact Peggy Stepp at: rifspringfieldmo@gmail.com

Missouri PTA Legislative Update

MOPTA Legislative Priorities

Each year the Missouri PTA Department of Legislation & Advocacy develops a set of priorities that are expected to be addressed in the upcoming Missouri Legislative session.  As unexpected issues emerge, Missouri PTA will act in accordance with the Resolutions and Position Statements that have been approved by the membership.  A complete list of Missouri PTA Resolutions and Position Statements are available on our website under Resolutions.  The National PTA Resolutions and Position Statements can be found here.

• 2021 Legislative Platform
• Legislative Handbook

JC/DC Member-to-Member Network

The JC/DC network is an email alert system designed to inform members when their voice is needed with regard to pending legislation in both Jefferson City and Washington D.C.  To apply for membership click here or download the JC/DC form.  Forms can be faxed, emailed or mailed to the main office (office@mopta.org).

From the Parliamentarian

Donna Petiford

legislative@scptamo.com

Wishing You Safe and Happy Holidays from Springfield Council of PTAs!

https://www.facebook.com/SCPTAs

https://www.facebook.com/ThePTAClothingBank

SCPTA President’s Network: https://www.facebook.com/groups/1631362246972323

Letter from the President

PTA/PTSA Units:

As the fall semester comes to a close, I want to thank all of you who have represented your units, especially those who stayed in place when your elections were not able to be held last spring and congratulate you on a job well done during these unprecedented times.  Remember to wrap up your units in a way that will help the new officers when the second half of the year and the new school year roll around. Here are some tips to help make a smooth transition for your officers, so the children are the ultimate beneficiary.

 · Have all of your officers meet with the new officers as a group and then individually via Zoom if necessary. Discuss the past years’ successes and failures and the coming years’ objectives.

 · Personally introduce the new officers to Principals, teachers, community leaders and other PTA contributors electronically if necessary.

· Have your officers complete their procedure books then pass them on to the new officers. Make sure all passwords and account information changes hands as well.

 · The treasurer should pay all the bills, settle all accounts, and be sure records are ready for the financial review if this still needs to be done.

 · A financial review committee should be appointed and prepare to review the treasurer’s books in a timely fashion if you have not already done so.

 · If the PTA bylaws were reviewed or amended make sure to send two copies to the Missouri PTA State office.

· Make sure you have sent the names, addresses and other pertinent information to MOPTA too. This needs to be done even if your officers are staying in their positions.

· Signatures on the PTA bank accounts should be changed to the new treasurer, secretary, and president if needed. (Remember that all checks should be signed by two people.)

· Continue to install new officers, and outgoing or retiring leaders should be thanked for their service.

Sincerely, Julia Spiva, President SCPTA

PTA Mission: The overall purpose of PTA is to be

A powerful voice for all children

A relevant resource for families and communities, and

A strong advocate for the education and well-being of every child.

From the Treasurer

TREASURER’S TIPS & REPORT
_For starting 2020-2021: Once the financial audit/review is complete, file 990.

_Submit treasurer’s year-end report, financial audit/review, and copy of 990 to Missouri PTA.

_Change/Add new officers to Bank Account Signature. Bring in minutes from the meeting when officers were elected. 

_Submit membership numbers with payment each month to MOPTA. 

_Keep your bank statement reconciled every month.  Utilize Money Minder “Transaction Reports” to keep committees on track financially, I like “All Transactions for a Specific Category”.  Share with each committee.

_Submit the Treasurer’s Report each month.

Remember, it’s not your money. It is PTA / PTSA money. You are the steward and accountable to your unit’s membership.

FINANCIAL OVERVIEW FOR November 2020

Slate of Officers 2020-2021

National PTA News

You’re invited to attend Facebook Masterclass! To help prepare you to engage with parents and families in this virtual environment, our friends at

Facebook

have created 3 new training sessions exclusively designed for PTA members. This masterclass will walk you through everything you need to know to be able to communicate more efficiently with your members, recruit new families, raise funds, and increase participation by leveraging the free tools and resources available on Facebook and Instagram.

Whether you are a state, council/district/region, or local PTA, this training will teach you how to get the maximum value and utility out of Facebook’s tools and resources.

Register for Facebook 101: Mastering the Basics!

Register for Facebook Tools for Garnering Support!

Register for Facebook Tools for Productivity!

See #HowWePTA / Make Your PTA Virtual

The COVID-19 pandemic has dramatically changed how PTA/PTSAs communicate, grow and accomplish goals within their school communities. Many PTAs have successfully used web/app-based technology, software and resources to continue strong leadership and build and grow their PTA community.

National PTA applauds these efforts and has compiled resources to help you move your PTA into the virtual world. PTAs are needed now more than ever and the resources and tools on this webpage will help demonstrate your PTAs value and relevance and keep your PTA members—and mission partners—connected and focused on objectives central to the needs of the children, families and school you serve.

• Get Great Examples
• The Leadership Training You Need
• Grow Your Membership, Virtually!
• Online Programs, Made Easy
• Family Engagement, Socially Distanced

The PTA Clothing Bank

By: Mandy Mitchell & Taryn Raidel

The Clothing Bank is up and running with a limited schedule. Covid has changed our world as well as the way the clothing bank operates. We were able to be open September 24th serving close to 200 students in one day and on Oct 29th serving 252 kids and we ran out of clothes! We are at 50% occupancy capacity and have kept our volunteers to a bare minimum to allow for more shoppers. Many units have reached out to offer help in different ways and we appreciate it very much. After posting about our situation on Facebook, we had over 400 shares and the donations in response was overwhelming! The core of a PTA volunteer is serving with a loving heart which is so prevalent at the clothing bank! It is an honor to serve the children and families of SPS. This year more than ever the need for the clothing bank is tremendous. With an ever changing environment we do not have a set schedule and are planning shopping days one month at a time. We have not asked for volunteers as we have in years past to limit exposure possibilities. We thank each of you for your ongoing support and encourage you to follow us on Facebook where we post the latest information on openings and needs. Please reach out to us if you need information on how to share our information with your school families. We rely on you to spread the word about the clothing bank and what is available there! Thank you for all your support! We hope to see you all soon!!

Donations can be made on the Springfield Council of PTAs website using the donations button . Gently-used clothing can be dropped off at either Wash House location:

 Diversity and Inclusion

 by Toi Allen

The Diversity and Inclusion Committee is happy to share how dedicated SPS is to offering an atmosphere for all children that is ENGAGING, RELEVANT, and PERSONAL. There were gaps found that needed more focus to accomplish the inclusion of ALL learners in this plan.  Focus V, an extension to the strategic plan was voted in by the School Board this past spring.  Focus V has five strategy levels of approach. The District is currently working on the 1^st  level. Strategy 5.1.1 – Facilitating learning opportunities for staff and leaders that foster exploration of identity and self, and creating applications to demonstrate cultural consciousness in their work. See SPS.org website Focus V for the additional strategies.

SPS’S department of Equity & Diversity is geared towards making these strategies a success. Their mission is as follows:

Committed to educational equity and ensuring that the learning and working environment at Springfield Public Schools is welcoming, accessible and affirming of ALL identities and lived experiences. 

The Equity & Diversity Team’s work is vital to the success for the RELEVANCE for ALL students.

On 10/21/20 Dr. Yvania Grace-Pusateri/SPS Chief Equity & Diversity Officer and Mr. Jimi Solo/SPS Coordinator III, Equity & Diversity,Workforce Development meet with a group of community stakeholders to share the progress. The Community Equity and Diversity Advisory Council were given the opportunity to ask questions pertaining to the progression.  Informative classes were provided to our District Leaders to enhance the continued success.

 Below are the titles of the classes provided:

Fall District Wide Equity TRAINING (GEORGE FLOYD, Systems of oppression, Systemic Racism, White Supremacy, Identity and Self) total planned training: 201 completed 101

Fall Equity and Diversity Modules for Certificate staff ( Social and Emotional training from an Equity Lens and Racial injustice)

Executive Leadership Team Equity Growth (1 hr sessions): Poverty and Class are intersectional, A deeper look at LGBTQ+ Identity, Empathy in equity, Identity and Intersectionality, Identity and Your leadership Role)So far the work towards the 1^st goal includes: (Anti-Racism, White Supremacy, Identity and Community)

Stay tuned for more Updates…..

Please show the Diversity and Inclusion Committee how you, your family, your PTA/PTSA unit and or community honor your culture or heritage so we can include YOU AND YOURS in our April 2020 Virtual Celebration. There is room for you at the TABLE.

Submit your ideas or questions to Toi Allen/Diversity and Inclusion at taocoach@yahoo.com . Thanking you in advance for any and all ideas shared.  

 The Month of November WE CELEBRATE American Indian Heritage

SCPTA Reflections Entries Due December 15, 2020.

City Level Awards will be announced Sunday February 21, 2021

Use these National PTA Reflections resources for program promotion at your school: Call for Entries video and social sharables.

Please join us at the November meeting. We will be voting on Officers, Bylaws, and Budget.

On April 2, 2019, 61.22% of Springfield Public Schools’ voters approved an 18-cent increase to the debt-service levy to fund 39 high-priority projects (Proposition S). The projects include renovations, expansion, and/or new construction for six schools and the creation of safer entrances at 31 schools. Space to add early childhood classrooms was created at three locations. The $167.73 million bond addresses safety, accessibility and quality issues.

One year later and “nearly all projects are on schedule or slightly ahead”, according to this News-Leader article.

To keep up on the latest project information, see the SPS website: https://www.sps.org/progress

Please see this link for more information from National PTA.

Click Here to Donate Via PayPal