2007 Texas PTA's

98th Annual State Convention

   

2007 is off to a fast start after the Texas PTA’s 98 th Annual Convention! The beautiful city of San Antonio served as a wonderful backdrop for an exciting weekend of learning and fun. The Henry B. Gonzalez Convention Center was buzzing with more than 40 workshops, over 80 great exhibitors and the energy of more than 800 attendees.

Texas PTA had the pleasure of welcoming a number of special guests throughout our stay in San Antonio. The First Lady of Texas, Anita Perry, graciously delivered our welcome during the first general session. Her dedication to our youngest Texans is unmatched and we appreciate her support of Texas PTA.

We also had the honor of hosting Anna Weselak, our National PTA President. Anna encouraged our attendees to say “YES” to PTA and to extend the invitation to others to join our support of America’s youth. Aurelio Montemayor, a San Antonio resident and National PTA board member, also joined us and we look forward to working with his organization, Texas Intercultural Development Research Association, during Summer Leadership Seminar.

Our opening session was a real highlight of the weekend! The colors were posted by the Highlands High School Jr. ROTC, and we were entertained by the sounds of the Bonita Tech-Alitlan and Fox Tech Mariachi, and the authentic dances of the Brisco Academy Ballet Folklorico. Paul Vitale delivered an energetic keynote address that resonated with everyone; parent or non-parent, educator or administrator. His message of how we can have a positive impact on everyone we meet rings true to our own mission, “every child, one voice”.

In a very special moment, Texas PTA was pleased to welcome NINE of our State Past-Presidents! Of course, we put them to work as soon as they arrived! They have already begun work on our upcoming Centennial in 2009. Their support of our programs and mission is invaluable!

And don’t forget the volunteers!! Susanne Hutchison and her team of volunteers did an outstanding job of making sure that the Convention went as smoothly as possible. Convention simply wouldn’t be possible without all of you that offer your time and talents during this weekend. THANK YOU!

Mark your calendars for Summer Leadership Seminar, July 20-22! VIVA PTA!