From the Desk of Jeri Duncan, Plano ISD Council of PTAs President
PTA Leaders,
September can feel like a sprint. On the long days, remember this: your work is moving the needle for kids and families—right now. This month, I’m inviting every leader to “Keep the Wins.” Create a simple “Wins Folder” in your PTA's Google Drive. Drop in thank-you notes, quick emails from parents, photos from events, and little moments that made you smile. When the calendar is packed and energy dips, flip through it. It’s proof that what you do matters.
Take two minutes before each meeting to reread your mission and the reason you said “yes.” Then look for it in action at your events—families connecting, teachers supported, students thriving. That perspective shift fuels momentum.
Leadership isn’t solo work. Pair up with one or two trusted PTA friends for quick pep talks, reality checks, and shared ideas. You’ll move faster (and further) together.
In keeping with September's ‘Keep the Wins’ theme, share one win with us—big or small—and share the win in our Plano ISD Council of PTAs Idea Share Facebook group, https://www.facebook.com/groups/planoisdptaideashare, or tag us on your page. Every story builds our community and inspires the next volunteer to step in.
You’re doing incredible work. Let’s capture it, celebrate it, and keep going—together. If you need anything, your Council team is here for you.
Your partner in supporting Every Child with One Voice,
Plano ISD Council of PTAs reminds all local PTAs to submit your 2025–2026 Council dues and any optional donations 💙✨ These are due by the first Council Delegate meeting on September 11, 2025 🗓️.
💵 Dues ensure every PTA has a voice 🗣️, strengthen collaboration across campuses 🤝, and support programs that uplift students, families, and educators 🎓🏫💡.
Together, we build connections that make every child’s potential a reality 🌈👧👦
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National PTA Appreciation Day is September 26 🎉
🎉 Celebrating the People Who Make Schools Feel Like Community 🎉
On September 26, we say a giant THANK YOU to the champions who power PTAs across Plano ISD—families, educators, students, and neighbors working together so every child can thrive. 💙
🌟 What We’re Celebrating • Connection 🤝: PTA links home, school, and community. • Teacher support 🍎: Resources and appreciation that help educators. • Student opportunity 🎓: Arts, STEM, wellness, leadership, and service. • Advocacy 📣: Speaking up for safe, well-resourced schools. • Partnerships 🏘️: Local businesses and organizations supporting success.
🙌 Shout-Outs • Campus PTAs for daily acts of service. • Teachers, principals, and staff who strengthen the home–school bond. • Families and caregivers who join, donate, and volunteer. • Students who lead, serve, and inspire. • Special applause for our seven 2024–2026 National PTA Schools of Excellence! 🏆
🎈 How to Celebrate 9/26 Families & Caregivers: Post a thank-you, join or renew, invite a friend. Educators: Wear your PTA button, give a shout-out, share one wish. Students: Write notes, make posters, record short videos. Neighbors/Businesses: Offer a giveback, sponsor a need, post a shout-out. PTAs: Create a Gratitude Wall, pop-up table, or “Thanks Teachers” cart.
📲 Social Toolkit Hashtags: #PlanoPTA #PlanoISD #PTAProud #YouBelongInPTA #AllInForKids Caption starter: “Happy PTA Appreciation Day! Thank you for connecting families and schools. 💙 #PTAProud”
💬 Quick Thank-You “Thank you, PTA, for making our campuses strong and supportive. 🌟” “To every volunteer, member, and partner—your heart creates real opportunities. 🫶”
💫 From Plano ISD Council of PTAs To everyone who shows up—caregivers, educators, leaders, and students—thank you for being the heart of our schools. If you care about kids, you’re PTA.
🙋♂️ Volunteers Make a Difference—Keep the momentum going 💛
Small moments add up—prepping materials, greeting at events, supporting a reading group. Whether you’re new or returning, Plano ISD requires an annual background check and volunteer registration. It’s quick, secure, and open now.
Say “yes” when opportunities pop up—get approved today
No long-term commitment; pick times that fit your schedule
🚨 Now Accepting Applications for the Local PTA Impact Grants! 🚨
Is your PTA planning an innovative program that supports students, families, or campus life? Apply now for a Plano ISD Council of PTAs Impact Grant and bring your idea to life!
These grants provide financial support for projects that enrich learning, promote wellness, build leadership, and foster stronger school communities. Past recipients have launched language inclusion initiatives, student outreach programs, and more!
✅ Eligibility: All Plano ISD PTAs in good standing 🎯 Focus Areas:
Academic enrichment
Health & wellness
Family engagement
Leadership development
Social-emotional learning
Before you apply, be sure to: 1️⃣ Develop your project proposal 2️⃣ Get principal approval 3️⃣ Submit your application
📍 Plano ISD Sockwell Center, 6301 Chapel Hill Blvd, Plano 75093
🕤 9:30–10:30 AM | Networking Sessions 🔔 All officers encouraged to attend the networking session
🤝 10:30–11:00 AM | Visit Our Council Sponsors
🗳️ 11:00 AM–12:30 PM | Delegate Meeting
🌟 Each PTA in Plano ISD has three voting representatives for Council Delegate meetings: the Principal, PTA President, and Council Delegate.
🔁 If one cannot attend, an alternate can be assigned. Please notify the Council Secretary of any alternates before the meeting.
🙌 We look forward to seeing you there and kicking off another amazing year together! 💙 Stay tuned—more details coming soon! 🗓️✨
Minutes Matter: Notes from Rachel Good, Council Secretary
I hope your school year is off to a great start! My name is Rachel Goode, and I am your Secretary contact on the Plano Council of PTAs. The Council board’s main goal is to help you and your PTA be successful—and I am here to support you in that!
Many of you have already held your first meeting, or will soon. To get started on the right path, here’s a helpful checklist:
• Register yourself as an officer with TX PTA, and encourage your fellow Board members to do the same. This ensures Council has accurate information for distribution lists. https://txpta.my.salesforce-sites.com/OfficerIntake
• Bookmark and review the TX PTA Secretary page, especially the BASICS Secretary Resource Guide—your go-to reference. https://www.txpta.org/secretary
• Complete the Foundations Essentials training video once during your PTA career, and this year complete the BASICS Secretary training video. https://www.txpta.org/courses
• Complete a Plan of Work (POW) in coordination with the Treasurer. A sample POW can be found here: https://www.txpta.org/secretary
• Coordinate with the President or Parliamentarian to request a copy of your bylaws on the 2025–2026 template. The final sentence of Article XV, Section 6 should read “August 1, 2025.” If not, your template is outdated. Always work with the most current version. Many questions can be answered by reviewing your Bylaws and Standing Rules. https://txpta.my.salesforce-sites.com/BylawsRequest
• Work with the President to decide how meeting minutes will be reviewed. Options include:
Secretary reads the minutes at the next meeting, then they are approved by those present.
Secretary distributes minutes via email prior to the next meeting, then they are approved by those present.
At each meeting, the President appoints a Minutes Review Committee of three members to review the current minutes before the next meeting.
• Learn your PTA’s quorum for both Board and Membership meetings. This is specified in your Bylaws.
At your first Board meeting, also work with the President to: • Ensure all Board members sign the Confidentiality, Ethics, and Conflict of Interest Agreement. • Review the Records Retention policy and any other policies (E-Commerce, Social Media, etc.) with the Executive Board, then present them for adoption by the membership. https://www.txpta.org/secretary
I hope this checklist makes your work easier. Please don’t hesitate to reach out if you have any questions or need support. Thank you for giving your time and energy to serve your school community!
The Plano ISD Council of PTAs proudly recognizes our Community Membership Sponsors for their commitment to education and community through Community Membership Packages.
When leaders invest in schools, they invest in our schools and communities—amplifying student voices, enriching learning, and building strong connections with families.
👏 With gratitude, we recognize:
Richardson package
Thank you:
Kelley Thomas
Mary Rohr
Amir Omar, Richardson Mayor
This package includes membership to the elementary school PTAs where Richardson residents may be zoned, and their feeder schools including middle, high and senior high schools. Schools in this package are: Aldridge Elementary, Miller Elementary, Schell Elementary, Stinson Elementary, Murphy Middle, Otto Middle, Wilson Middle, McMillen High School, Williams High School, Vines High School, Plano East Senior High School, and Plano Senior High School.
Plano East package
Thank you:
Nancy Humphrey
Richonda Hunte
Jeri Duncan
This package includes membership to all the Plano East Senior High feeder school PTAs: Barron, Boggess, Dooley, Hickey, Hunt, McCall, Meadows, Memorial, Mendenhall, Miller, Schell, Stinson, Bowman, Murphy, Otto, McMillen, Williams, and Plano East.
Academy add-on
Thank you:
Jeri Duncan
Add the Academy High School to the feeder pattern of your choice!
Hughston package
Thank you:
MK Werner
This package includes membership to all the Hughston Elementary feeder school PTAs – Hughston, Haggard, Vines, and Plano Senior.
Plano ISD’s College & Career Night: Monday, September 15
📅 Save the date and join us for Plano ISD’s College & Career Night! Meet 200+ representatives and explore colleges and universities, technical and trade programs, military options, and career pathways—all in one place. Plus, get step-by-step guidance in informational sessions on completing FAFSA and TASFA (Texas Application for State Financial Aid) applications. 💸📝
What’s happening:
🤝 Meet and chat with admissions, military, and career representatives
🎯 Learn about programs, majors, training, and pathways after high school
💰 Get tips on scholarships, financial aid, FAFSA/TASFA, and timelines
🧭 Discover resources to help you plan your next steps
Event details:
🗓 Monday, September 15
⏰ 6:00–8:00 PM
📍 Plano Event Center, 2000 E. Spring Creek Parkway, Plano, TX 75074 📌
Helpful to bring:
✅ Questions about admissions, majors, costs, and campus life
📱 Your phone (for QR codes and sign-ups)
🗒️ A notepad or notes app
🧾 A resume or activities list (optional)
Bring your family, bring your questions, and bring your curiosity. See you there! 🚀📚
North Texas Giving Day: Thursday, September 18, 2025
📅 Thursday, September 18, 2025 | 🕕 6:00 a.m. – Midnight 💻 Early giving begins Thursday, August 28 at NorthTexasGivingDay.org
💙 Join us in supporting the Plano ISD Education Foundation—an organization dedicated to bridging the gap between opportunity and access for over 48,000 students across Plano ISD.
Since 1993, the Foundation has raised almost $24 million to fund programs that tax dollars alone can't cover—including:
🎓 Career & Technical Education 🎭 Fine Arts 🍎 Teacher Recruitment & Retention 🤝 Wraparound Services 💡 Innovative Classroom Grants …and much more!
🌟 Your donation helps ensure Plano ISD remains one of the top public school districts in the nation, by funding what matters most: our students and teachers.
🙌 Together, we can make a lasting impact. 📣 Spread the word, give generously, and help us continue this important mission!
Plano ISD Council of PTAs celebrates the 📚 Plano ISD Education Foundation's Grants to Educators program!
Each year, 💰 $150,000 in grants fund: 💻 Technology 🧰 Classroom materials 🚌 Field trips 💡 Innovative projects
📌 Up to $2,000 for individuals and $3,500 for teams!
Every fall, the 🎊 Grant Patrol surprises teachers in their classrooms, honoring creativity and bringing community support to life. 🙌
These grants impact students from pre-K through high school 🎒🎓 across every subject—from science to the arts to career and technical education! 🧪🎨🔧
👏 Thank you to the Education Foundation for investing in what matters most—our educators and students! 💙
Accountability Update
In Plano ISD we believe a strong accountability system is essential to ensuring every student is prepared for college, career and life. We value clear metrics of success that measure both achievement and growth, and we are committed to being transparent with our community about our progress. Throughout the year, we share multiple progress reports with our Board of Trustees and families to help our community understand both our successes and opportunities for growth.
While the State of Texas Assessments of Academic Readiness (STAAR) is the state’s primary measure for school accountability, our district also uses the Measures of Academic Progress (MAP) assessment because of its validity, reliability, and ability to provide actionable information throughout the school year. MAP is a computer-adaptive test, aligned to STAAR, and nationally normed—meaning it measures student performance against peers across the country. Administered multiple times a year from kindergarten through eighth grade, MAP helps us track progress, adjust instruction, and ensure students are on the right path toward college and career readiness. Plano ISD also relies on PSAT, SAT and Advanced Placement exams to monitor our students’ performance against national standards.
Plano ISD continues to consistently outperform both the state and our region not only on the state’s STAAR exams but also on national metrics. At the same time, we recognize that a single test on a single day cannot capture the full scope of a student’s abilities or the depth of the work of our teachers and students. That’s why we rely on multiple measures to define success and remain steadfast in our belief that our students are more than a score.
This week Plano ISD received state accountability ratings from school years 2023–2024 and 2024–2025. These ratings were issued under the Texas Education Agency’s redesigned accountability system, which includes significant changes that impact how school performance is evaluated and reported. Plano ISD has been assigned a letter grade of “B” for both years based solely on the State of Texas Assessments of Academic Readiness (STAAR) scores at the elementary, middle and high school levels and STAAR end of course exams, graduation rates and state-defined College, Career and Military Readiness (CCMR) indicators for our senior high schools.
We are proud of our many examples of unmatched achievement from academic competitions to career certifications to fine arts excellence. We remain keenly focused on continuous improvement. Our commitment is to ensure that every student, in every school, experiences growth, reaches high levels of achievement and leaves Plano ISD fully prepared for their future.
Apply for Free and Reduced Open
Plano ISD participates in the federal meal program, which provides free and reduced-price meals to students who qualify. Families who may qualify for meal benefits should complete a meal application for the 2025-26 school year, available through our website.
Families who already have a SchoolCafé account can sign in to complete the meal application. Families who do not have an account can create a new one by selecting that option on the SchoolCafé page. View this SchoolCafé information video for instructions on how to complete the meal application.
Applications will be processed within 10 business days. Eligibility notification letters will be sent via email. If you have not received the letter in your inbox, please check your junk and spam folders.
Texas law now requires school districts to distribute information to parents and guardians about the safe storage of firearms. The linked information will help you learn about options for, as well as how to talk to your child and others about, the safe storage of firearms.
It is unlawful to store, transport or abandon an unsecured firearm in a place where children are likely to be and can obtain access to the firearm. Under Texas Penal Code 46.13, a person commits the offense of making a firearm accessible to a child if the child gains access to a readily dischargeable firearm and the person with criminal negligence:
Failed to secure the firearm; or
Left the firearm in a place to which the person knew or should have known the child would gain access
The penalty for allowing a child access to a firearm can range from a Class C misdemeanor (punishable by a $500 fine) to a Class A misdemeanor (punishable by a $4000 fine, a year in jail or a combination of the two).
Remember, a gun should be stored unloaded in a safe or locked container, with ammunition stored elsewhere. You can learn more and find additional resources from the Texas Department of Public Safety website.
Sincerely,
Plano ISD Chief of Safety & Security Operations Kevin Keating
HB 6 Family Communication
House Bill 6 (HB 6), requires the Texas Education Agency (TEA) to provide each school district with a report outlining updates to student discipline laws. TEA created a user-friendly resource called Overview of School Discipline for Parents. This guide is linked below and highlights student expectations and recent changes in the law.
English version of the Overview of School Discipline for Parent
Spanish version of the Overview of School Discipline for Parent
For more details about HB 6, visit TEA’s website: TEA HB 6 Information. We hope you find this information helpful.
Parent Access to SchooLinks (Grades 6–12)
Parents of students in grades 6–12 can now log in to SchooLinks directly through the Plano ISD Family Access on a desktop—no extra accounts or passwords needed.
In SchooLinks, parents can:
Explore Colleges & Careers – See the same tools students use to research future options.
View Course Plans – Review your child’s academic plan, course choices, and endorsement pathway toward graduation.
Track Readiness – Check progress on state College, Career, and Military Readiness (CCMR) goals like SAT/ACT, TSIA2, certifications, and military benchmarks.
Find Scholarships & Financial Aid – Help your child search for opportunities and track deadlines.
This single sign-on makes it easier for families to stay involved and support students as they prepare for life after graduation.
Consent for Physical and Mental School Health Services
Starting September 1, 2025, Texas law (Senate Bill 12) requires parents to give consent before schools can provide students with certain physical or mental health services. Parents must complete a School Health Services Consent Form for each child in Plano ISD.
The consent form will be available in Skyward Family Access on Thursday, August 28th. Please complete it no later than September 1, 2025, so your child can continue to receive health services at school. Without this consent, nurses, counselors, and staff will not be able to provide certain services.
Examples of physical health services provided on campus may include, but are not limited to:
Injury evaluation and first aid care
State mandated health screenings (vision, hearing, spinal, acanthosis)
Lice screening
Assessment and care for illness or physical symptoms while at school
Coordination of health services
Heat illness prevention and injury support for student athletes
Hygiene support
Examples of mental health services provided on campus may include, but are not limited to:
Short-term individual or group counseling
Comprehensive student-success needs assessment (academic related behavior needs like study skills and school involvement, not for mental health diagnostic purposes)
Support during crisis, including assessment following a reported concern of student self-harm or harm to others
Referral to external providers (with additional consent)
Important Notes
This consent does not cover medication administration, long-term treatment, or formal medical/psychological diagnoses—those need separate parent permission.
In a life-threatening emergency, staff will respond immediately and notify parents right away.
If the form is not completed, parents will be fully responsible for their child’s physical and mental health care outside of emergencies.
For the 25-26 school year, parents/guardians should complete the School Health Related Services Consent Form in Skyward Family Access as soon as possible so that your child can receive care after September 1, 2025.
Parents with registered Family Access accounts can log in to view grades, student registration, emergency card information, STAAR and performance data, immunization records, and other important information about their students.
📝 Description: Join us for the upcoming School Board Meeting to stay informed and engaged with our district's updates and decisions.
📅 Meetings are held regularly, and you can find the full schedule, along with live streaming options, at 🌐 pisd.edu/PISDLIVE.
👥 Stay connected and informed about the future of Plano ISD! 🎥
Leading Through Change: Plano ISD’s Vision for the Year Ahead
ICYMI: ✨ School Board President Dr. Lauren Tyra and Superintendent Dr. Theresa Williams kicked off the new school year yesterday 🎉, visiting campuses 🏫 to greet and celebrate with students and staff 👩🏫👨🎓📚.
WFAA Reporter Jobin Panicker 🎤 tagged along to help share Plano ISD's vision for the year ahead! 🎥🌟
Congratulations on your new position! Here are a few steps to help you get started.
(These are tasks newly elected officers can complete now. Some steps in theResource Guide may be easier to do after the new board meets or the fiscal year begins.)
Register as an Officer with Texas PTA: All officers must register with Texas PTA. Use the “President-Elect” option only if your PTA follows the President-Elect board structure. Register here.
Complete Required Training: Texas PTA requires all Board members to complete two training requirements. FOUNDATIONS Essentials and Basics can be completed online and should be taken within 30 days of election or appointment. Complete training.
Review Bylaws and Standing Rules: Take time to review your PTA’s bylaws and standing rules to understand the structure and expectations of your role.
Meet with Your Predecessor: Schedule a meeting with the outgoing officer to learn more about the position and plan the transfer of materials at the end of the fiscal year.
Develop a Plan of Work: Draft a plan of work for your role and submit it to the executive board for approval at an upcoming meeting.
Contact Plano ISD Council of PTAs with Questions: If you have questions or need support, Plano Council is here to help! Contact us.
Support Your Local PTA: Donate at their World Wear Bin
Help us keep our campuses clean! Please place all donations inside the World Wear bins. Items left outside not only detract from the appearance of our campus but can also create safety concerns.
🧤👟 Many Plano ISD campuses have a World Wear Project bin!
👚👞 Donate clothing, shoes, purses, belts, backpacks, toys & more
💰📚 Proceeds support local PTAs & our students
📢 Anyone can donate—tell your neighbors!
📍 Look for the bin on your campus (often near parking lots or fields)
🛍️➡️ Fill bags so they fit inside the bin—if full, please return later
📋 Plan & promote Reflections with training videos, checklists, rules, and forms available on the Texas PTA website.
🗓️ Council Entry Deadline: November 10, 2025 — set your campus deadlines early to allow time for judging. ⏳
🤝💬 Connect during the Networking Session at the September 11 Council Delegate Meeting (Sockwell Center, 9:30–10:30 a.m.), or reach out anytime with questions.
📧 Questions? Email arts@planopta.org 🧡 Let’s celebrate the power of belonging—together!
Through our Community Connections Sponsorship Program, these local businesses have partnered with us at the Bronze, Silver, Gold, or Platinum level to support Council and your local PTA.
Support our Sponsors by visiting their websites, exploring their social media, or contacting them directly to learn how they can benefit your school. Their products and services could be a perfect match for your PTA and broader community needs.
Plano ISD Council of PTAs proudly thanks our Platinum Sponsor, EPI Educational Products, Inc. (EPI), for their outstanding support and commitment to our schools and families. 🎉 EPI has long been a trusted partner in education, providing high-quality school supplies and resources that make a real difference in the lives of students and educators. By partnering with Plano PTA, EPI not only enhances educational opportunities across our district but also demonstrates their dedication to community growth and future leaders. Their support impacts more than 19,722 members and over 47,000 students, boosting visibility for their brand while reinforcing their reputation as a reliable and community-focused organization. We are grateful for their investment in our mission of advocacy, education, and family engagement. Learn more about EPI at www.EducationalProducts.com or connect with them on Facebook and Instagram. 💙📚
We sincerely thank our 2024-2025 community sponsors for their generous contributions in helping the Plano ISD Council of PTAs advocate for students, support educators, and strengthen our schools.
Platinum Sponsor:
EPI Educational Products, Inc. (EPI) is the preferred choice for school supply and custom apparel programs. Founded and based in Texas over 40 years ago, EPI offers great programs and exceptional service at an affordable price.
iCode provides after school computer science lessons along with seasonal camps. Through exciting, hands-on activities, students build a strong foundation of skills that will prepare them for the tech-driven workforce of tomorrow. Kids advance through our hands-on, proprietary STEM curriculum as they acquire vital skills in programming, critical thinking, collaboration, and so much more.
North Texas Performing Arts is dedicated to developing the character of youth through performing arts education and family entertainment. Headquartered at Willow Bend Center of the Arts in Plano, NTPA offers classes, camps, and productions for youth ages 5-18. NTPA is comprised of five youth theatre troupes in Dallas, Fairview, Frisco, Plano, and Southlake, and offers specialty troupes including NTPA Academy offering an innovative academic learning environment for grades 6-12, with an enhanced focus on the fine arts; NTPA Studios, film production program; NTPA Starcatchers, therapeutic arts troupe for individuals with disabilities; NTPA Deaf Theatre; and NTPA Repertory Theatre, its adult theatre company.
Randolph-Brooks Federal Credit Union (RBFCU) is a financial cooperative dedicated to helping members save time, save money, and achieve their financial goals, from opening accounts to planning for retirement. Serving over 1 million members with more than 60 branches across Texas and beyond, RBFCU's success is built on its people—2,300 employees, dedicated leadership, and loyal members.
Soccer Stars of North Dallas offers a unique, age-specific curriculum that is crafted to improve soccer skills, build self-confidence, and develop socialization skills. Soccer Stars offers youth soccer classes and camps that teach the FUN in FUNdamentals! In-school and after-school programs available for ages 1 to 12+.
Check out our sponsors’ promotions and programs! Click an image to see it larger.
2025-2026 Community Sponsorships
🌟 Take the lead in supporting over 47,000 students and nearly 20,000 PTA members across Plano ISD! 🎓✨ By partnering with the Plano ISD Council of PTAs, your business can:
✯ Drive Change: 🚀 Invest directly in the future of our schools, creating better educational experiences and resources for students and educators. 📚🎒
✯ Maximize Exposure: 🌐 Showcase your brand’s commitment to local education and get noticed as a key player in community development. 🏢🤝
✯ Build Loyalty: ❤️ Align with an organization trusted for over 100 years, cementing your reputation as a dedicated partner in supporting our children’s success. 👧👦🌟
💡 Don’t miss this opportunity to make a lasting difference—become a sponsor today! 🎉🙌
Whether you’re brand new to PTA leadership or bringing back valuable experience, this toolkit is designed to be your one-stop shop for a strong start and a successful year. Inside, you’ll find everything you need—clearly organized and easy to use—from training and planning tools to recognition programs and advocacy resources.
It’s all here to help you lead with confidence, stay connected, and elevate your PTA’s impact.
Need a ready-to-go program for your families or meetings? TXPTA Connect has you covered with presentations (in English & Spanish) on topics like:
College readiness
Vaping
Financial literacy
School safety
Each program includes a video, facilitator guide, discussion questions, and activities. Some are as short as 10 minutes—perfect for adding to a general meeting.
Thanks for stepping up to lead—this training helps ensure we're all moving forward together! 💙👏
Customize Your School’s JoinPTA QR Code
🎨💙💛 Did you know you can customize your school’s JoinPTA QR code in your own colors? With Canva, it’s quick, easy, and a fun way to show school spirit while boosting PTA membership! 🐾📲
👏 The Plano ISD Council of PTAs celebrates tools that help us: 🤝 Connect families 🌱 Grow leaders 🏫 Strengthen our schools
💪🏽👨👩👧👦 Every membership helps us serve students, support educators, and build a more inclusive, thriving community. 🌟
September 15 – Texas PTA Senior & Staff Scholarship Applications Open
Texas PTA’s annual scholarship program opens on September 15, 2025! This program provides:
Senior Scholarships – $1,000 awards for graduating high school seniors who are college or technical school bound. Applicants must be members of a PTA/PTSA that is active by December 1.
Faculty/Staff Scholarships – Up to $500 awards for Texas educators and staff working at schools with an active PTA/PTSA.
Key Dates:
Applications open: September 15, 2025
Applications close: November 15, 2025
PTA membership required by: December 1, 2025
Recipients announced: April 1, 2026
These scholarships not only provide financial support but also recognize leadership, community engagement, and academic success.
National Voter Registration Day is a nonpartisan civic holiday that celebrates our democracy and encourages every eligible citizen to make their voice heard. For PTA, this day is a powerful reminder of our advocacy roots. From the very beginning, PTA has worked to amplify the voices of families and ensure that laws and policies reflect what’s best for children.
On September 17, PTAs across the country have the opportunity to:
Encourage families, staff, and community members to check their voter registration status.
Share resources about how to register to vote in Texas and deadlines for upcoming elections.
Remind the community that engaged voters help shape the future of our schools and ensure that every child’s potential becomes a reality.
By promoting voter registration, we are modeling civic responsibility for our students and strengthening the parent-school-community partnership.
Mark your calendars now —next year’s LAUNCH will be July 10–12, 2026 at the Gaylord! You won’t want to miss it!
National PTA News
PTA IS EVERYONE: A PLACE FOR ALL
PTA isn’t just for parents—it’s for everyone who cares about students. At Plano ISD Council of PTAs, we’re a community of families, educators, students, and neighbors working side by side to build welcoming, inclusive schools where every child can thrive. 🌈🏫
Why join? Your membership:
Builds connection 🤝 between home and school
Strengthens support for teachers 🍎 and staff
Amplifies every child’s potential 🎓 through programs, advocacy, and opportunities
Welcomes every voice 🗣️—moms, dads, caregivers, stepfamilies, grandparents, bus drivers, principals, community leaders, and students
What membership makes possible ✨
Classroom and campus support (grants, supplies, appreciation, and more) 📚
Family engagement events that bring us together 🎉
Student leadership, arts, STEM, and wellness initiatives 🧪🎭🧠
Advocacy for safe, inclusive, well‑resourced schools 📣
Come as you are—get involved your way:
Join and stay informed 📨
Volunteer a little or a lot (your choice!) ⏱️
Attend events and make connections 🤗
Share your ideas and help shape what’s next 💡
The ripple effect is real 🌊 When teachers join PTA, families feel more connected. When families join, teachers feel supported. That chain reaction turns campuses into communities—and amazing things happen when we all show up together. 🌟
Ready to help every child shine? Join your campus PTA today ➡️ JoinPTA.org
Help Improve PTA.org by Monday, September 8, 2025.
The National PTA Communications Department is upgrading our PTA.org website. We invite you to assist us in this process by sharing your experiences with PTA.org.
The survey has only 11 questions and will take just five minutes of your time. That’s all we need to help us improve this online resource designed to support PTAs across the country.
Gift Card Giveaway
If you complete the survey and leave your email address, you will be entered into our Gift Card Giveaway! One lucky winner will receive a $50 Amazon gift card. Two others will receive $25 gift cards.
Please complete the survey by Monday, September 8, 2025.
National PTA is offering more than $1M in grants this year for programs in STEM, arts, digital safety, healthy lifestyles, and more—covering all grade levels (yes, even high school!).
Deadline to apply: Sept. 24
Award notifications in December, funds in January, events by end of school year
Grants can cover things like pizza, giveaways, or marketing to boost your event!
New this year: If a high school PTA/PTSA applies but doesn’t receive a grant, they’ll still get $100 guaranteed to help offset costs.
Best part? National PTA gives you the materials—you just follow the script. Super easy, super impactful!
This recognition program helps open communication and build strong school communities through data-driven decisions. It’s a fantastic way to grow your PTA family and create long-term impact for students.
Step 1: Enroll by Oct. 15
Gather feedback, build an action plan, check in with your community, and then celebrate your excellence next August!
Our VP of Programs, Kelsey Plichta, programs@PlanoPTA.org, has personally gone through this program—she is happy to walk you through it if you’re curious. Her advice: if you’re considering it, just sign up!
Designing Family Partnerships That Stick in 2025: September 9, 2025
Sept. 9: Join Stanford University’s National Student Support Accelerator from at 12:00 p.m. ET/9:00 a.m. PT for Designing Family Partnerships That Stick in 2025: Applying Lessons from High-Impact Tutoring, a webinar featuring parent advocates, a school principal and other education leaders. Listen as they spark new ideas and approaches to family engagement and family-school partnerships in the new school year. Register here.
These tools and templates, online resources and training courses will inform your work as you establish your PTA and volunteer roles and throughout the year, ensuring that your PTA stays on track to achieve the PTA mission: to make every child's potential a reality by engaging and empowering families and communities to advocate for all children.
Membership Tip: Videos That Inspire People to Join Your PTA.
Share short, impactful videos about PTA at back-to-school events or on your social media channels to inspire people to join your PTA. These 1–2-minute videos will give a true glimpse into what PTA really is, encouraging your families and community to support your PTA:PTA for Your Child and Why Join PTA?
Meet our 2024–2026 National PTA Schools of Excellence
Honoring Excellence: Celebrating Plano ISD’s National PTA Schools of Excellence! 🎉🏆
The Plano ISD Council of PTAs is excited to announce that 7️⃣ of our outstanding Plano Independent School District schools have earned the 2024–2026 National PTA School of Excellence 🏆 designation! This is a meaningful recognition 🎖️ for schools that set a high standard for family–school partnerships 🤝 and positive community impact 🌟.
Our honorees have shown exceptional leadership 🏅, service 🙌, inclusion 🌈, and a strong commitment to excellence ✨.
As students head back to school, Kidde and National PTA remind families to prioritize home fire and CO safety. Visit CauseForAlarm.org to learn how to make your home safer.
Help Pick the Teacher Appreciation Week Theme!
We're gearing up early for Teacher Appreciation Week (May 4-8, 2026), and we need your help to pick this year's theme! Head over to National PTA's Facebook or Instagram to let us know which theme you like best: "How Sweet It Is to Be Taught by You," "Teachers Help Us Bloom Beyond Belief" or "Teachers Create Magic."
City of Plano News
Benefit of Your Library Card
With your Plano Public Library card, you have access to a full suite of virtual resources to help students in K-12 with math, science, writing and more. Get live, online tutoring daily between 2-11 pm, or access a variety of useful learning resources at any time. No need for a credit card - this is a benefit of your library card
One of our Teen Street Team teens said "Before I took the PSAT in October, I used Tutor.com’s SAT practice sets, which helped me raise my score by 50 points!"
✨ Add an emergency contact card to your child’s backpack! 🧒🎒 📞 Include your phone number 👨👩👧 Backup contacts ❤️ Important health details like allergies or medications
🚑 In an emergency, this small step helps staff and first responders respond quickly. ⏱️💡
If you or someone you know is experiencing a mental health or substance use crisis, help is available. Call LifePath’s 24/7 Crisis Line at 1-877-422-5939—open to anyone in Collin County.
North Texas Performing Arts
in partnership with The Shops at Willow Bend, presents
🌟 North Texas's Got Talent 🌟
📣 Audition Submission Deadline EXTENDED & EVENT pushed back to October 18!
💵 TOTAL PRIZE VALUE TO BE AWARDED: $4,000.00 💵
🏆 FIRST PLACE ADULT WINNER PRIZE: $1,000.00!
🎶🎤 Recognizing Top Talent Across North Texas! 🎹🪄
📅 AUDITION SUBMISSION DEADLINE EXTENDED TO OCTOBER 12!
🎬🎤🎶 GET READY TO TAKE THE STAGE in NTPA's “North Texas's Got Talent” contest and compete for exciting CASH PRIZES! 💰💃🕺
This is not just a high-stakes talent contest... 🌈 It’s a celebration of our region's incredible artistic diversity and exceptional talent! 🌟
🎤🎭🎸 If you are a singer, dancer, actor, magician, musician, or have a unique talent… 👉 THIS IS YOUR MOMENT TO SHINE! ✨
📝 SUBMIT YOUR AUDITION ONLINE by October 12 with a low-cost $20 Entry Fee 🎟️ for a chance to be one of our elite finalists who will perform at the North Texas Got Talent Finalists Showcase on October 18th.
🌟 The Top Adult performer may even be invited to perform at the 2025 North Texas Performing Arts Stardust Awards on November 1! 🌟 💡 Entry fees may be waived upon need-based application.
📋 PROGRAM OVERVIEW & CONTEST RULES 📋 🥇 Our TOP THREE TALENTS in each Division will win amazing cash prizes! • Adult Division: 🏆 $1,000 for first place • Youth Division: 🏆 $500 for first place + 🎟️ $450 NTPA Free Show 👏 Plus, the bragging rights that come with the coveted title of “North Texas’s Top Talent!”
🎉 Don’t miss this thrilling opportunity to showcase your talent to the entire North Texas community! Open to youth ages 10+ and adults.
Webinars and "In the Know" sessions are free and are designed to help customers learn to use ALL of the amazing tools that are part of their Membership Toolkit account.
Open Q&A
September 3, 2025 - 11 :OOAM CST
New Admin & Admin Refresher
September 4, 2025 - 11 :OOAM CST
Communication Lists
September 10, 2025 - 11:OOAM CST
Open Q&A
September 12, 2025 - IO:OOAM CST
Peer to Peer Fundraisers
September 15, 2025 - 11:OOAM CST
Communities (Message Boards) For School Organizations
Mark your calendars for October 18! Visit colorful cultural booths & a great variety of vendors, taste ethnic food, participate in interactive games, and SO MUCH MORE! We will keep you posted!
Planning ahead for school appreciation days helps PTAs show meaningful support for our dedicated school staff and educators. By marking these dates on your calendar now, your PTA can organize thoughtful recognition events and ensure every member of your school community feels valued throughout the year.
SEPTEMBER 2025👨👩👧👦 9/26 National PTA Appreciation Day
OCTOBER 2025👔 10/1-31 National Principals Month 🧹 10/2 School Custodial Workers Appreciation Day 📚 10/5 World Teachers Day 🚌 10/20-24 National School Bus Safety Week
NOVEMBER 2025 🧠 11/3-7 School Psychologist Week 👥 11/19 Education Support Professionals Day 📝 11/21 Substitute Educators Day
JANUARY 2026📋 1/1-31 School Board Recognition Month 👮 1/9 Law Enforcement Appreciation Day
FEBRUARY 2026❤️🚌 2/1-28 Celebrate your bus drivers! 🚸 2/6 School Crossing Guard Appreciation Day 👮♂️ 2/15 School Resource Officer Appreciation Day 💭 2/2-6 School Counselor Appreciation Week 👮♂️ 2/15 School Resource Officer Appreciation Day 🚌 2/22 School Bus Driver Appreciation Day
MARCH 2026🤝 3/2-6 National School Social Worker Week
APRIL 2026 👥 4/1 Paraprofessional Appreciation Day 📚 4/4 School Librarian Appreciation Day 👔 4/6-10 National Assistant Principals Week 🌟 4/20-24 National Public School Volunteer Appreciation Week 💼 4/22 Administrative Professionals Day 🚌 4/28 School Bus Driver Appreciation Day
MAY 2026 👔 5/1 School Principal's Day 🍎 5/1 School Lunch Hero Day 📚 5/4-8 Teacher Appreciation Week ⚕️ 5/6 School Nurse Day 🗣️ 5/18 Speech Pathologist Day
Events
Subscribe: If you would like to subscribe to any of these calendars, please visit the Subscription page to find out how.
