Dear Coyote Creek Families,

I am very excited for this upcoming year as your new PTA President. The headlines and news feeds are always revealing some new challenge on how to be a good parent. The PTA is the oldest and largest national nonprofit organization working on behalf of all children to provide parents with tools to face these challenges. When you join PTA you allow national, state and local organizations to advocate for your child’s opportunity for a quality public education that is well-rounded and grounded in the values of a positive home, school and community environment. 

The California PTA recognizes in its core values that the family is the basic unit of society responsible for the support and nurturing of all children; and that a family may be defined in many ways. Parents are indeed a child’s first teacher in life and that parent involvement is essential throughout a child’s educational journey. As families, we are fortunate to live in an area where our children receive not only a quality public education, but an above-standard experience with many extras.  We all want our children to excel, but success must be measured in a variety of ways. One reason I chose to take on this leadership role is that I believe in the PTA’s unwavering support that each child must have an opportunity to develop to their full potential. In addition to academic measures, how do children thrive, explore and feel safe? Let’s break down our Mission Statement…  

The Mission Statement of Coyote Creek’s PTA is: “To be the best advocator for our children. We can do this by volunteering for school services, supporting student programs and attending the variety of “Family Fun” events.”  

1) Volunteering for School Services: Supports Teachers and Allows Children to Thrive What we do to keep the students safe and focused allows for smaller work groups in pace-leveled environments where children can excel. We are extra hands in class, on the playground and behind the scenes which help to keep learning and activity ratios small and effective.  Room Parents, Copy Room, Math Center, Literacy Station, Field Trip Drivers, Yard Duty volunteer roles among others, all help make learning safe, comfortable and achievable for our children.  

2) Supporting Programs: Fosters a Child’s Creative Exploration and Socialization Skills Real world lessons of respectful interaction and self-motivation are available through the extra educational elements offered on campus through programs like Art Masterpiece, Breakfast Book Club and Reflections. Mastering life-skills that go beyond test standards like participating in expanded discussion groups and expression of art application and appreciation focuses on peer communication, risk, confidence and acceptance.  

3) Attending Family Fun Events: Builds a Child’s sense of Community and Security Children want to be where people like to gather and spend time as a family. Children have a sense of pride sharing their daily space with you and this gives them a sense of belonging and comfort. Welcome Back Howling, Bingo/Game Nights and International Fair are examples of popular events that promote this sense of inclusion.  

I ask you to support PTA as an advocate for your child. In doing so, you enable him or her to succeed by ALL measures of success above. Being active in school support, promoting programs and attending family events allows your son or daughter to develop to his and her full potential as children not just as students. PTA provides a structured approach and well-rounded opportunities for families to embrace their children in this hectic world of change and unpredictability we face as parents today. You give your child the gift of stability and support when you choose to volunteer your time in any capacity for the PTA. Thank You in advance for considering areas you are able to serve in the continued welfare of your child. I look forward to an exciting year taking this empowering journey together!  

Warm Regards,

Stephanie Hitchcock, President and the 2009-2010 PTA Board