Several months ago I had a dream in which I was involved in PTA (Parent Teacher Association). I woke up confused, because at that point we’d made the decision to homeschool and things were going well and I was content. But if I’ve learned anything about life it’s that the only thing that’s constant is change. After that dream I couldn’t stop thinking about the need to become more involved in our community–PTA specifically–and so began our prayerful journey to enroll Ryan in kindergarten mid-year.
After he started school I excitedly joined the PTA, having no idea what I was jumping into or what was even involved. I just KNEW I needed to be part. I anticipated joining a large parent group and planned to volunteer my time photocopying flyers or coloring file folder games, so imagine my surprise when I was excitedly welcomed as one of only three parents at that first meeting. I quickly realized in a gigantic school (about 1,200 kids) there was a desperate need for parent support.
I started helping in any way I could–serving nachos at Family Literacy Night, assembling goodie bags and pricing donuts for teacher appreciation week, and stapling handouts while Jared and I watched TV in the evening.
While I only spent minutes of my own time serving, I knew (from being a pre-mommy teacher myself) that the small acts were a great relief to an overworked teacher, yet the reward was mine as being involved made me happy.
And then much quicker than I imagined, the call for more responsibility came. I had terrible morning sickness at the time and was using my last bit of energy just to get my kids a snack or take a shower, but something inside me said–DO IT. And so overwhelmed and humbled, but so incredibly excited, I’m looking into this new school year with great possibility as the new PTA president.
They are probably loving you!!! I enjoy serving as PTO President at our school. I feel like I am contributing a little to EVERY student. I love the feeling I get from serving here!
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pameladonnis Reply:
August 8th, 2011 at 5:00 pm
I still need to call you!!
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Oh, Pam! You have the courage and energy to do what I couldn’t do. My friend (the Primary President, no less!) begged me to be on the PTA board with her, but I bowed out as graciously as I could since I have a new baby and didn’t think I could handle it. I need to chant, “I’m not worthy!” to you. Good luck!!! You’ll be fabulous with this.
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pameladonnis Reply:
August 8th, 2011 at 4:19 pm
@Mandy, Ugh, I don’t know about that!! You are too sweet. But, I was just released as Primary President, so that’s a bit of a relief.
One thing at a time.
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As the child of a former PTA president and a a student who got involved as I got old enough I say thank you on behalf of the children who’s lives you will touch by giving your time and energy. I wait for the day that my son is old enough and is in elementary school so I can get back involved in the PTA or PTO at his school.
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Wow, congratulations!! And good luck. If anyone can do it all, you can.
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