In light of what has transpired in the 82nd Texas Legislative Session and its Special Session, you may wonder if people really can make a difference in the legislative process. When we look back to the founding of PTA, the evidence is clear . Yes, people can and do make a difference. 

In 1897, Alice McLellan Birney and Phoebe Apperson Hearst, two mothers who were passionate and committed to improving the lives of children, founded a parent based organization which became a nationwide movement. More than 2,000 people including mothers, fathers, teachers, laborers and legislators attended the first meeting in Washington, DC. They became the voice of the children and through many years of commitment, dedication, and participating in the legislative process programs were formed: the creation of kindergarten classes, child labor laws, a public health service, hot lunch programs and much more. 

This tradition of advocacy carries on and is as important today as it was over 100 years ago. Remember that PTA's greatest strength is its membership. Impacting the lives of children through advocacy is possible when the membership is well informed, focused, dedicated and passionate about the cause. PTA continues to call out to our parents, teachers, legislators, and more to effectively speak out for all children. That said, here at Council we will continue to inform, educate and update all NISD school PTAs of the important issues concerning our children, our schools and our communities. 

As always, we look to Texas PTA to lead us in our efforts. Texas PTA has joined LIVESTONG and SMOKEFREE TEXAS and continues in the fight to make all work-places in Texas smoke-free. Through advocacy and activism public policy was affected here locally. On August 19th, 2011 San Antonio Smoke-Free ordinance went into effect. San Antonio is among more than 30 Texas cities with a comprehensive smoking ban in public. Yes, people can and do make a difference. 

Making a difference can start by understanding public policy and how it affects the lives of our children, their education, their safety and their health. Being well informed is vital in effective advocacy. We invite you to review the reports provided by Texas PTA in regards to the 82nd Legislative Session and its Special Session.