Let's Make Tax filing Easy (DUE: Nov. 15)

Dinosaurs didn't have to file state and federal tax forms on time... and look where they are now! Don't let your PTA's tax-exempt status go extinct. Filing is easy! California State PTA, your council and district leaders are here to help you.

Just a reminder that if your PTA's fiscal year-end was June 30, you must file the following forms no later than November 15:

• IRS Form 990 ( 990, 990EZ or 990N)
• California State Franchise Tax Board Form 199 ( 199or 199N)
• Registry of Charitable Trusts RRF-1( RRF-1 online)

If you require additional time to file, don’t forget to file your Form 8868.

And don't forget – California State PTA's Tax Filing Support Center is a valuable online resource to provide you with even more tools and guidance to help your PTA meet all of the federal and state nonprofit reporting requirements.

*first published by California State PTA, Leadership email, 10.20.17

Mt. Diablo Council Update

MDUSD has had some very exciting changes as of the beginning of this school year!**

• Ygnacio Valley High School and its PTSA begin its year as MDUSD’s first International Baccalaureate School (IB World School, Diploma Program (DP)).  The efforts to be approved for this prestigious and rigorous program were significant, taking the better part of three years and hundreds of hours or training, planning and creative problem-solving.  The addition of an IB program to MDUSD creates an incredible opportunity for students and offers numerous benefits. The Diploma Program was established to offer students a balanced, global education; facilitate geographic and cultural mobility, and promote international understanding. The school will offer 14 different IB courses this fall, and offer YV students exclusive onsite and remote access to a vast collection of databases through Gale, a global online research resource.

• Oak Grove Middle School and its PTSA are pleased to pursue authorization to establish itself as the District’s second IB school under its Middle Years Program (MYP) for students ages 11-16.  The MYP is a five-year program, which can be implemented in a partnership between schools, or in several abbreviated (two, three or four year) formats. Students who complete the MYP are well-prepared to undertake the IB coursework at Ygnacio Valley.  The District is also looking to establish an IB Primary Years Programme (PYP) as well.

In addition, MDUSD has launched 3 new Regional Magnet Schools.  Magnet schools are highly specialized public schools with curricula that are theme-based and technology-rich. Any child can enroll, as enrollment is based on their interest, not where they live. Each subject is aligned to our local, state and national standards but is taught within the theme; teachers receive special training on the best practices for integrating the ‘theme’ throughout the curriculum. They are:

• Sun Terrace Elementary – STEM Magnet School In a STEM learning environment, powerful critical thinking and exploration practices commonly used in high-performing science, technology, engineering and math classrooms will be drawn across disciplines and connected by cutting-edge technology and extensive hands-on experiences.  These have been qualities embraced by Sun Terrace and its PTA for years and will expand as a more formal magnet program. In the Sun Terrace STEM lab, students are encouraged to tinker, create, play and explore without the constraints of an objective or directions to follow.  Students also engage in design challenges and activities that offer opportunities to meet California's Next Generation Science Standards (NGSS) in an engaging and exciting hands-on environment.
• Wren Avenue Elementary – Visual and Performing Arts Magnet Wren Avenue Elementary, and its PTA, is transitioning to be the MDUSD Visual and Performing Arts magnet school.  Strong arts education promotes the skills students need to be successful in all areas. Exposure to the arts promotes self-directed learning, improves school attendance, and sharpens critical thinking skills. Along with a rigorous academic program, Wren Avenue will offer dance, theatre, music, and visual arts experiences to all students both as independent classes and as interdisciplinary subjects integrated into all core content areas and with state-of-the-art technology. 
• Holbrook Language Academy As a language magnet, Holbrook will be offering an exciting Two-Way Dual Immersion (TWDI) program that includes English-dominant speakers with Spanish-dominant speakers, providing instruction in both languages. The program will begin at the Transitional Kindergarten (TK) level for the 2017-2018 school year, and be extended to the next grade level in each successive year until it is TK-5. The school will follow a 50/50 model where students spend 50 percent of their day learning to read and write in English, and the other 50 percent learning to read and write in Spanish. The goal of the program is to develop academic language proficiency in English and Spanish, master grade level core standards, and develop cultural proficiency. In addition, students at all grade levels will also be offered opportunities each week to learn a variety of languages. Numerous multi-cultural events will be held throughout the year, including grade-level presentations emphasizing a unique language and cultural practices for countries where the language is spoken. Dual immersion teachers are specially-trained as both subject area and language teachers, and will work together with families to make sure students are developing both their first and second languages from the early childhood grades. (Holbrook is not a PTA school.)

**The information contained in this update was adapted from the MDUSD.ORG website and its press releases.

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Bayside Council Updates

New Mandarin Program Offered

We in the West Contra Costa Unified School District (WCCUSD) are thrilled!!!! to report that we have a new school!  West County Mandarin School (WCMS) opened August 21st with three Kindergarten classes!  We are the first public school district in the East Bay to offer a school-wide Mandarin immersion program for students.  

The school is led by veteran educator and administrator, Dr. Eric Peterson, whose education background includes a bilingual teaching authorization (BCLAD) in Spanish, and study in language acquisition as part of his doctoral dissertation.  His vast career includes stints as special ed director and  the principal of a dual immersion Spanish program in San Pablo.

The West County Mandarin School is also dedicated to equity, and 50% of the seats are reserved for students who are either Low Income, English Learners or Foster Youth.

WCMS also chartered a PTA just a month or so ago.  We look forward to working with them and their parent/teacher community.

Here is a website to learn more about our new school!

New Units

We are thrilled to announce that over the last year we chartered four new units and all are operational!  Wilson Elementary, Verde Elementary, Ford Elementary and West County Mandarin School all chartered units. We are most proud that these units represent the full diversity of our school district.  90% of Ford's population is low income and 68% are English Language Learners.   89% of Wilson's population is low income and 52% are English Language Learners. 99% of Verde's population is low income and 72% are English Language Learners.  All started PTAs to better support their children and to provide a structured avenue for parents to influence school culture and be involved in school.

Special Events - KNOW YOUR RIGHTS

Last year, the Bayside Council of PTAs partnered with the ACLU, the United Teachers of Richmond, the West Contra Costa Unified School District, and other prominent Community Building Organizations and hosted two KNOW YOUR RIGHTS seminars for undocumented persons.  The seminars explained what rights undocumented persons have under the law. Special role plays, performed by members of the ACLU and the Contra Costa District Attorneys office highlighted how undocumented persons might speak and act with Immigrations and Customs Enforcement (ICE) if approached. The entire seminar was translated into Spanish for those who needed it.

SB 328

At the urging of Bayside Council of PTAs, the West Contra Costa County School Board debated the adoption of a resolution supporting SB 328 (Portantino) which aimed to move the start time of middle and high school to no earlier than 8:30 a.m.  Unfortunately, the bill died before our school board adopted a final resolution, but we'll be at the next board meeting encouraging them to continue upon that path, as State Senator Portantino said he plans to bring it back in January.

Teacher Awards

Congrats to WCCUSD's Paula Raj (pronounced Roy) who is a Contra Costa County Teacher of the Year!  Raj, who teaches Spanish at DeAnza High School is a 35 year veteran. She now moves on to the state competition.  Gracias Paula por su dedication a nuestros estudiantes! (Thank you Paula for your dedication to our students!)

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PTA Leader Tips: Bylaws

Do you need a bylaws refresh? Do you have too few officers and committee chairs or too many? Does your association need to meet more often or less frequently?

Bylaws should be reviewed annually and updated every three years. The signature of the State PTA Parliamentarian and adoption date by the unit, typically found on the next to last page, reveal your bylaws status. If your PTA is at the 2 year mark, form a committee to start the review process. Use the PTA e-Bylaws tool to update or prepare your bylaws using the paper version or a pdf available from your Council or District Parliamentarian. The executive board approves the changes to be sent to the State Parliamentarian.  

To submit bylaws through channels and have them returned may take two months, depending on volunteer turnaround at each level. When returned to the unit, 30 days notice must be given to the association’s members with printed information about the proposed changes, if any. Often bylaws are adopted by the association at the spring annual election meeting.

For easy to understand resources review pages iii-vi of your current bylaws or visit http://capta.org/pta-leaders/run-your-pta/bylaws-and-standing-rules/ and  http://capta.org/pta-leaders/services/ebylaws/ .   

Your Council or District Parliamentarian stand ready to provide assistance. Additional questions? Contact Parliamentarian Linda Mayoparliamentarian@32ndPTA.org.

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Community Concern: Bullying

Connect for Respect (C4R) is National PTA’s initiative to help students, parents and

educators to create school climates full of safe and supportive peer relationships.

Research shows that one of the most effective ways to prevent bullying behavior is to create

a positive school climate. School climate encompasses everything that contributes to a

student’s experience with a school—from the physical building to policies, staff and peer

Culture.

Positive school climates exist in schools where students, families and educators all work

collaboratively to build a culture of respect.

Use the Connect for Respect (C4R) Toolkit to guide your PTA/PTSA on ways to engage

students in improving the school climate and reducing bullying.

The C4R Toolkit

• Get started. Walk through a step-by- step process for engaging students, parents and educators in Connect for Respect while learning about all of the tools National PTA and its partners have available for you.
• Build a team. Invite students, teachers, community members and parents to work together in improving school climate. Give students a leadership role.
• Assess the current school climate. Take inventory of the current challenges and strengths of your school climate and chart your progress.
• Engage the school community in dialogue. Bring students, parents and school leaders together for a productive discussion and brainstorm on ways to over come weaknesses found in assessment.
• Develop an action plan. Create a plan that educates and empowers students, families and the broader school community around bullying prevention and safe school environments.
• Educate and empower students, families and the community. Sustain your efforts over time by convening a C4R team that works on this issue throughout the school year.

To Learn more, visit National PTA's website.

Questions? Contact Dena Bettiparented@32ndPTA.org, VP Parent Education and Community Concerns.

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PTA Legislative Advocacy

Advocacy Matters

Oftentimes, people ask me why they should join PTA.  They’re afraid they will be obligated to attend meetings, and don’t understand the connection to their children.  I like to remind them that PTA is the parent voice at the local, state, and federal levels.  That when we stand together for what matters most, our officials listen.

Advocacy & Social Media

Amplifying the PTA voice is easy with the new Social Media Advocacy Chart. Tweet post or share anything in the green column. Think twice before sharing items from the yellow sections and do not share anything from a PTA account if it came from the red column.

Use social media to lift up PTA – you are an advocate and we need your voice!

PTA Statement Concerning the Rescindment of DACA

In the light of recent changes to the Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals (DACA), California State PTA calls on the United States Congress to seize the opportunity to craft bipartisan, comprehensive immigration reform that will protect all children and ensure their education, health and safety without regard to immigration status.

Read the full CAPTA Statement and to learn more.

Want to learn more?  Have specific questions at your council or unit about how to advocate? Contact Vice President of Education & Legislation, Heidi Hernandez Gatty, and schedule a conversation tailored to your needs.  I’m happy to demystify the legislative process, shed light on the budget and policy process, and help make parents comfortable and confident .

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October Membership Notes

Thanks to the efforts of our school PTA leaders and membership volunteers, our units are growing

their PTA membership.  Our District had an increase of 608 members from 15-16 to 16-17 and we are aiming to increase our membership numbers by 10%, that’s 3677 new members over the next two years. We have incentives but we need your help by talking to your friends, neighbors, teachers, other parents about PTA.

More PTA members directly translate to a larger voice for our children when it comes to local, state and national advocacy.

When parents ask, “Why should I join PTA?” let them know in the words of San Ramon Valley Council’s VP of Membership, Rumi Varma, that “Your PTA membership supports student success in your own community as well as across the state and the nation.  Simply joining PTA shows you’re invested in all children’s futures.”

When teachers ask why they should join PTA let them know that PTA is the oldest and largest child advocacy organization in the US. PTA advocates for their classrooms at the local, state and national level. Find out what PTA has achieved over the last 120 years at http://capta.org/about/our-mission/whatwestandfor/

If you are interested in helping get more members for PTA at your school, contact your PTA Membership Coordinator.  Don’t know who that is?  Contact your PTA President or email VP Membership, Eva Santelli membership@32ndPTA.org.

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Don't Miss Out on PTA Scholarships and Grants

Take advantage of scholarships and grants offered by PTA in several areas:

Volunteer Service Scholarship

Recognizes graduating high school seniors for their volunteer service in schools and communities. Applications are due by February 1, 2018

Dr. Ralph E. White Graduating Senior Scholarships

Honoring the public service legacy of Dr. Ralph E. White and his wife Eleanor and to support graduating seniors in their pursuit of careers in medical fields.

Applications are due by February 1, 2018.

Questions? Contact Scholarship & Grants Chair Shirley Lapp

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Reflections

Reflect on the theme, “Within Reach”. Create an original work of art. Be recognized for a job well done!

Be a part of the PTA Reflections Art Program, a national program that celebrates art and creativity in our K-12 students. With six categories, Reflections is the opportunity for students to share their artistic side.

Most local units are in full swing! For more information, including deadlines, please check in with your school’s PTA. For program overview and past winners visit: http://capta.org/programs-events/reflections/

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Fall 2017 Association Meeting and Training

Join us for the Thirty-Second District PTA Association Meeting Thursday, October 26. All members of local PTAs in Contra Costa County are welcome and encouraged to attend.

Following the business meeting Officer Training and Roundtable Discussions will help you build the knowledge you need to run your PTA. Trainings will cover the areas of President, Finance , Membership and Secretary positions. Round Table discussions on great topics like Advocacy, Engaging Families and more!

The agenda includes a presentation on a Resolution the Thirty Second District PTA proposes to submit to the California State PTA in support of increased revenues for public education.

Dinner will be served (no cost with registration) starting at 6:00 pm. Our meeting and program will start at 6:15 pm.

Register here

Don't miss out on this insightful program and a chance to network with other PTA leaders from throughout Contra Costa County! To help us plan for dinner, please RSVP by Tuesday, October 20, 2017.

Proposed Agenda

6:15    Call to Order

Pledge of Allegiance

Honorary Service Award Presentation

Approval of Minutes

Financial Reports

Annual Report

Treasurer’s Reports (year end and current)

Budget to Actual 2016/2017

Ratify Payments

Budget 2017/2018 and adjustments

Audit Report

Acceptance of Calendar & Programs

President’s Report

Contra Costa County Office of Education Presentation

Resolution Presentation

7:30     Adjourn to Training

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Fall 2017 President's Message

The weather is beginning to turn and the memory of summer is fading.  The chill in the air, that announces the change of seasons, is noticeably bracing in the early morning and at sunset.  As nature begins to put on its autumnal sleeping gown, PTA is doing anything but settling into a sleepy pace!

In the Thirty Second District PTA, encompassing Contra Costa County, things continue to ‘move and shake’ in Antioch, San Ramon, Walnut Creek, Martinez, Richmond, Orinda, Concord and everywhere in between.  We are 38,000+ members strong and continue to grow, especially in West Contra Costa.  This fall we have already welcomed the addition of three new PTA charters, and have a queue of schools ready and waiting to welcome PTA onto their school campuses.  The feeling is mutual!  We had the privilege of being at an event to witness the selection and announcement of the Contra Costa COE Teachers of the Year in late September, celebrating all the deserving educators selected as their school district’s teacher of the year.  When parents, education staff, and community members align - we are unstoppable!

Meanwhile the programs that make PTA a desirable partner for schools and school districts continue.  The national PTA art program, Reflections, is in full swing at our PTAs across the county, in every school district that has PTAs.  The student-created art pieces that come out of the Thirty Second District PTA always have a good showing at the California State PTA level of the Reflections program. We don’t expect this year to be any different and look forward to seeing the artwork produced from around the county.  You can find out more information about Reflections here.  This year’s theme is ‘Within Reach’ and participation is easy, exciting, and empowering!

PTA remains vital because of our hardworking volunteers and committed leaders.  Training and support of our PTA leaders and volunteers are key to why many schools and school districts prefer PTA to other parent clubs.  Being a part of an established national organization provides our educational communities with confidence that their boards have the structure and oversight to legally and financially manage and protect assets the communities have entrusted to PTAs. Those funds allow PTAs to provide access to award winning programs like Parent University, Advocacy Day, Reflections, Leadership Training, and more.  California State PTA recently held a Northern California Regional Conference on September 23 and about twenty five of our local PTA leaders attended.  On October 26, we will be providing officer training in conjunction with our association meeting at the Contra Costa County Office of Education - all PTA members in Contra Costa County are welcome to attend.  You can find out more about the training and meeting here.

We are a productive and active group...and we like it that way because our kids and our community deserve it!  Want to be a part of a PTA that makes good things happen for students in our county?  Join your local PTA today!

Marilyn Cachola Lucey

President, Thirty-Second District PTA, 2017-19

president@32ndPTA.org

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