From the Desk of Julia Wiblin, Plano ISD Council of PTAs President
Hello PTA Leaders,
Welcome to a brand-new school year! We are well into August, and that means one thing—We are well into GO TIME! Whether you’re a returning board member or stepping into your very first PTA role, this is the month we bring our plans to life, welcome new families, and set the stage for a successful and impactful year ahead.
Many of you have already been working behind the scenes this summer—planning, budgeting, training, and organizing—and I want to take a moment to thank you for all the effort you’ve put in to ensure your PTA starts strong. Your dedication is what allows Plano PTAs thrive and continue to serve each child with one voice.
This Month’s Focus: CONNECTION As students fill the hallways again and families return to campus, let's embrace the power of connection. Use your first membership meeting of the year to energize your school community. Whether it's paired with a family event, a back-to-school night, or a staff breakfast—make it welcoming and informative. This is your opportunity to share the “why” behind PTA and invite new faces to get involved.
Lights, Camera, PTA! Let’s make this the year we celebrate and amplify the work you’re doing in real time. Share your first membership meeting on social media—snap photos, post a quick video, or even go live for a few minutes. Show the smiling faces, the school spirit, the popcorn machine, the volunteers in action. Highlight your theme, your goals, or that creative way you’re boosting membership. And be sure to tag us so we can share and join in the celebration!
When we share our work, we inspire others to step forward, join, and contribute.
Be sure to follow the Plano ISD Council of PTAs on Facebook and Instagram for tips, templates, reminders, and spotlight opportunities all year long.
As always, if you have questions, ideas, or need support—reach out. We are here to walk with you, cheer you on, and help you make the most of this year.
Plano ISD Council of PTAs | The info below is a recap of our amazing 2025–2026 school year:
From music to meals, action to achievement — last year was nothing short of incredible. Together, we made magic happen across all 63 PTAs in Plano ISD:
42 Elementary | 11 Middle | 6 High (yes, Academy HS!) | 4 Senior High 100% in Good Standing with Texas PTA 17,262 members strong = Bronze Voice for Every Child Award 655 volunteers officially registered: → 437 Elementary → 109 Middle → 66 High → 42 Senior High
Plus, 297 community memberships purchased through Council
And that’s just the beginning...
10 Student Scholarships Awarded! 10 graduating Seniors supported as they begin their next chapter
2 Local Impact Grants funded innovative campus programming 1 LAUNCH Grant sent local leaders to the Texas PTA conference
5190 STAAR snacksdelivered to campuses to keep kids fueled on test day
Celebrating Excellence, 2024-2026 - 7 National PTA Schools of Excellence: • Aldridge Elementary • Brinker Elementary • Hickey Elementary • Huffman Elementary • Mitchell Elementary • Plano East Senior High • Rose Haggar Elementary
4 Platinum Voice for Every Child Award Winners: • Aldridge • Barksdale • Harrington • Saigling
Reflections Art Program: 215+ entries from 37 campuses 25 advanced to state 1 shined all the way to National judging!
Represented PTA spirit at: • North Texas Carnival of the Arts • Plano Balloon Festival • Plano International Festival
We closed the year with our 2025–26 Honorary Life Member Reception: Honoring 138 Life Members & 18 Extended Service Award recipients!
And did we mention... 2 PTAs received National PTA Grants to support even more amazing work: • Sigler • Jasper
In every school, at every level, we showed up. We advocated. We celebrated. We created community.
This is more than a list of accomplishments—It’s the heart of Every Child. One Voice.
Volunteers Make a Difference Every Year
Each school year, Plano ISD requires all volunteers—whether new or returning—to complete a background check and register through the district’s volunteer system. This process must be done annually and is now open.
Volunteers play a vital role in supporting students, teachers, and school communities. Whether it's helping in the classroom, organizing events, or doing behind-the-scenes work, every contribution matters.
When volunteers feel welcomed, appreciated, and informed, they’re more likely to stay involved—and their impact grows. A few hours, a warm smile, or a willingness to jump in can make all the difference.
One registered volunteer at a time, we build stronger schools together.
Delegate Meeting and Networking Session
FRIDAY, September 25, 2026 (please note, this meeting is on a Friday this year).
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!
Plano ISD News
2026-2027 Plano ISD Calendar
The first day of school is behind us now and it’s time to continue planning for 2026–2027! As we welcome and adjust to the new school year, it’s a great time to build connections and ensure every family feels at home. Let’s work together to make the transition smooth and full of possibility!
Please complete your student's required annual forms in Skyward Family Access. These forms include essential information like emergency contacts, health details, and permissions.
Source: "Today’s Update for Plano ISD Families - August 7, 2026"
As we begin the school year, Plano ISD would like to take a moment to remind you about student transportation eligibility criteria for the 2026-2027 school year.
Plano ISD is committed to providing safe and reliable transportation for all eligible students. Please see the Plano ISD Transportation Webpage for student transportation information and eligibility.
All of our buses are equipped with air conditioning. Keep in mind, with the Texas heat, the buses will not cool like your personal vehicle.
Update - Campus-to-Campus Routes High School Pick up Only
Transportation for campus-to-campus routes has changed this year. Students 2026-2027 will be picked up from their home high school campus (HS) to enrollment campus (HS). Campus-to-campus routes will no longer be picked up at middle school feeder campuses. Please see the list of programs that are affected by this change below.
Jasper Eng.
Wildcat Academy Vines/PSHS
Williams Health Sciences Academy
Plano East IB
Academy
CTE
Students will still have transportation eligibility. However, their pickup/drop off (bus stops) may have changed. Please help communicate this information to your families.
Plano ISD Fare Busing Applications Open September 1
Plano ISD offers optional fee-based transportation for students living within two miles of their campus.
Applications Open: September 1
Service Evaluation: Begins October 1 (after primary busing routes are finalized)
Ready to make your next big career move? Join Plano ISD for the upcoming Open House Job Fair. Explore open roles and learn about what makes Plano ISD a destination district.
Congratulations on your Executive Board position! Here are a few steps to remember.
(These are tasks elected officers should complete. Some steps in the President Resource Guide may be easier to complete 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.
August is Go Time: Make Your PTA’s Online Presence Shines!
As families return to routines and students head back to campus, your PTA’s digital platforms should be ready to inform, welcome, and energize. Think of your website and socials as your virtual front door—make it inviting and up-to-date for a great first impression!
Membership Toolkit Website Must-Do’s:
Swap out any “Coming Soon” banners with current info like event signups, or a warm “Welcome Back!” message.
Double-check your navigation: are volunteer forms, calendar links, and membership options front and center?
Post your 2026-2027 Executive Board if you haven’t already—and verify those contact links work!
A short welcome note from your PTA President or even a simple “Let’s make it a great year!” goes a long way toward making the site feel fresh and people-focused.
Social Media: Start Strong
Post a first month countdown or checklist—it’s helpful and keeps your page top-of-mind.
Highlight your first membership meeting with a fun teaser or graphic invite.
Introduce your board with quick bios or behind-the-scenes photos—Reels, Stories, or even a “Meet the PTA” carousel work great.
Use scheduling tools like Meta Business Suite to map out 2–3 weeks of posts so your page stays active even during busy weeks.
Canva Quick Hits:
Refresh your templates with this year’s theme or colors—branding builds trust and recognition!
Try Canva’s School graphics or animated stickers for eye-catching content.
Keep visuals clean and bold: 1 image + 1 key message is all you need.
Need a refresher on PTA communications rules? If a reporter reaches out or you're promoting a big event, always refer to the Texas PTA Public Relations and the Media.
Real Talk: You don’t need to post daily or design like a pro—just show up regularly and speak with heart. Friendly, consistent messaging helps families feel informed and included.
Let your PTA be the digital welcome mat that says, “We’re glad you’re here.”
Membership Toolkit offers handy Year End Checklist overview or detailed Knowledge Base articles in Year End Transitioning. Account Owners can find it under Dashboard > Organization > Year End. Detailed guides are available in the Knowledge Base.
Year End Accounting
Don't close your 2025-2026 accounting books until all transactions are entered and final reports are complete. Youcan begin online sales for the new year, even if the books aren't closed yet.
To walk through the process, head to: Dashboard > Accounting > Year End and follow steps in the Accounting Year End Checklist.
Membership Toolkit Webinars
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.
Sales Store & Forms August 26, 2026 - 11:00 AM CT
Directory Access & Settings August 27, 2026 - 11:00 AM CT
New Admin & Admin Refresher September 2, 2026 - 11:00 AM CT
Open Q & A September 3, 2026 - 11:00 AM CT
Communication Lists September 9, 2026 - 11:00 AM CT
Open Q & A September 9, 2026 - 12:00 PM (Noon) CT
Newsletters September 10, 2026 - 11:00 AM CT
Peer to Peer Fundraisers September 10, 2026 - 12:00 PM (Noon) CT
Communities (Message Boards) For School Organizations September 15, 2026 - 12:00 PM (Noon) CT
Open Q & A September 17, 2026 - 11:00 AM CT
Open Q & A September 23, 2026 - 11:00 AM CT
Reconciling Your Books September 24, 2026 - 11:00 AM CT
Reflections Leader Resources: Get Ready for a Creative Year!
Thank you for supporting the Reflections program—an inspiring opportunity for students to express themselves through the arts! Texas PTA provides everything you need to guide your PTA through a successful Reflections season.
Sales Store & Forms
Download the Local or Council Leader Checklists to follow the step-by-step process.
New this year? Check out "How to Host a Virtual Reflections Program" for flexible options.
Program Timeline
Local PTA deadlines are typically set for late October.
Plano Council deadline is 11:59 pm, Thursday, November 5, 2026
Texas PTA deadline is January 15.
Entries advancing to National PTA are sent by March 1.
Training & Support
Watch Local or Council-level training recordings to get started.
Join a Reflections Roundtable to hear real tips from other leaders across Texas.
Remember to Register! Reflections Chairs should register with Texas PTA to receive important program updates. Local PTA leaders should also ensure their PTA is in Active Status by October 31 to remain eligible.
Entry Guidelines All category rules and student entry forms are available in English and Spanish, including rules for Accessible Arts.
Judging & Celebrating Texas PTA outlines an 8-step judging process, complete with scorecards, spreadsheets, and celebration ideas.
Download certificates, or purchase ribbons and t-shirts to honor student creativity!
There will be no Theme Search Contest during the 2026-2027 program cycle. During the hiatus, National PTA will develop an updated contest structure and process to improve overall efficiency and contest participation.
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.
We sincerely thank our 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.
Big AirPlano is a family entertainment and adventure park offering attractions, birthday parties, group events, food, and active fun for kids, families, schools, and the Plano community.
Dumont Creamery and Café, Plano began in the heart of India as a visionary father’s dream of crafting the most delightful ice creams. This vision was shared with his two sons, Vivek Inampudi and Bhaskar Inampudi. Upon their return from the USA, the sons took the reins, using their father’s idea as the spark to shape and expand his legacy. Transforming a modest ice cream unit, Vivek and Bhaskar played a pivotal role in elevating the enterprise into one of India’s foremost ice cream manufacturers, now boasting an array of over 250 unique flavors.
Musical Minds Piano Enrichment offers fun, high-quality afterschool piano programs that build confidence and academic skills. Serving Plano ISD for 10+ years across multiple campuses.
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.
Check out our sponsors’ promotions and programs! Click an image to see it larger.
2026-2027 Community Sponsorships
2026-2027 Sponsorship packages are now available.
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.
Seize this opportunity to make a lasting difference—become a sponsor today!
Texas PTA News
Let’s Dive In and Make it a Great Year!
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.
Thanks for stepping up to lead—this training helps ensure we're all moving forward together!
LAUNCH 2026: The Ultimate PTA Power-Up!
From inspiring workshops to unforgettable connections, it was the training, motivation, and community we didn’t know we needed (but absolutely did). Mark your calendars now —next year’s LAUNCH will be July 16–18, 2027 at the Dallas Hilton Anatole! You do not want to miss it!
Lend a Helping Hand When it’s Needed Most
Since 1995, the Texas PTA Emergency Needs Relief Fund has supported individuals facing sudden hardship—from hurricanes and floods to catastrophic illness and accidents. When emergencies strike, this fund helps ensure relief is within reach.
Your donation can make a direct impact in the lives of those navigating crisis situations. Every dollar counts toward restoring stability, dignity, and hope.
There’s a common myth that PTAs are just for moms and dads—but that’s so last century! Today’s PTA is a powerful mix of everyone who cares about students: moms, dads, stepfamilies, teachers, grandparents, bus drivers, principals, community leaders, and even students themselves!
At Plano ISD Council of PTAs, we believe in building school communities where everyone belongs. It’s this spirit of collaboration—families, educators, and community members working together—that creates strong, well-rounded schools where every child can thrive.
Joining PTA means you're helping create a welcoming, supportive environment where children are celebrated and empowered. It's about connection, advocacy, and making a real difference together.
Because when teachers join PTA, families feel more connected. When families join PTA, teachers feel supported. It’s a ripple effect of engagement that transforms campuses into communities.
Whether you're a parent, educator, student, or neighbor—you belong in PTA. And when we all show up together, amazing things happen.
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?
National PTA Grants and Awards Opportunities
Throughout the year, National PTA offers awards and grants to honor or support PTAs across the country. The application process for our opportunities is easy, and the support or recognition your PTA could receive will have a lasting impact in your work and community. Whether you're looking to fund a family engagement event, support arts education, boost membership, or enhance your school community, these grants are designed to empower your PTA to dream bigger and do more.
Meet our 2025–2027 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 nine of our outstanding Plano Independent School District schools have earned the 2025-2027 National Parent Teacher Association School of Excellence designation! This National designation recognizes our PTAs and schools as an example of how strong, effective family-school partnerships enrich the educational experience and overall well-being for all students.
Our honorees have shown exceptional leadership, service, and a strong commitment to excellence.
This honor reflects the dedication and teamwork of our PTAs and school leaders, who have worked together all year to create meaningful change and brighter futures for every student.
Being named a School of Excellence is a mark of distinction that opens doors to new opportunities, attracts passionate PTA members, and inspires our entire community to aim higher.
We encourage all PTAs to keep striving for this level of excellence and to continue building a legacy. Together, we are making Plano ISD a shining example of what’s possible!
Prioritize Mental Health
Healthy Minds is National PTA's program to make mental health an everyday priority. Visit PTA.org/HealthyMinds for free resources and programming information.
Mark Your Calendar
August 2026 Highlights
The Multicultural Calendar celebrates the rich diversity in our school communities. PTA leaders can use it to plan events, learn about different cultures, and help every family feel seen, valued, and connected.
Month‑Long Observances
National Back to School Month National Immunization Awareness Month National Wellness Month
Plano ISD Important Dates September 7, 2026 – Student & Teacher Holiday September 8, 2026 – School Board Meeting
National Holidays & U.S. Observances August 26, 2026 – Women’s Equality Day
Multicultural & Religious Observances August 27, 2026– Ghost Festival (Ullambana) August 28, 2026– Raksha Bandhan (Hindu)
2026-2027 School Appreciation Days
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 2026: 9/26 National PTA Appreciation Day
OCTOBER 2026: 10/1-31 National Principals Month 10/2 School Custodial Workers Appreciation Day 10/5 World Teachers Day 10/19-23 National School Bus Safety Week
NOVEMBER 2026: 11/9-13 School Psychologist Week 11/18 Education Support Professionals Day 1/20 Substitute Educators Day
JANUARY 2027: 1/1-31 School Board Recognition Month 1/8 School Crossing Guard Appreciation Day 1/9 Law Enforcement Appreciation Day
FEBRUARY 2027: 2/1-28 Celebrate your bus drivers month! 2/15 School Resource Officer Appreciation Day 2/1-5 School Counselor Appreciation Week 2/15 School Resource Officer Appreciation Day
MARCH 2027: 3/7-13 National School Social Worker Week
APRIL 2027: 4/4 School Librarian Appreciation Day 4/5-9 National Assistant Principals Week 4/7 Paraprofessional Appreciation Day 4/18-24 National Public School Volunteer Appreciation Week 4/21 Administrative Professionals Day 4/27 School Bus Driver Appreciation
MAY 2027: 5/1 School Principal's Day 5/7 School Lunch Hero Day 5/3-7 Teacher Appreciation Week 5/12 School Nurse Day 5/18 Speech Pathologist Day
Now Open: School of Excellence Program Enrollment
Enrollment next year's School of Excellence program is open from May 1 – October 15! Enroll your local PTA in the 2026-2027 program and begin planning how your PTA will use the program to create transformative family engagement in your community.
August 1, 2026: Bylaws and Standing Rules
Reminder for All Plano ISD PTAs: Download Your Updated Bylaws and Standing Rules After August 1st!
Texas PTA has made it easier than ever to access your PTA's governing documents! Starting August 1st, executive board members can request a digital copy of your Bylaws and, if applicable, Standing Rules by visiting: https://txpta.my.salesforce-sites.com/BylawsRequest
This should be done every year to ensure you have the current template of the bylaws. You can find the effective date on the last page of the document.
Check the approval date at the top of your Bylaws or Standing Rules. If it’s more than 3 years old, visit txpta.org/bylaws to learn how to amend or update them.
Thank you for keeping your PTA current and compliant!
Plano ISD Board of Trustees Meeting: September 8, 2026
Date: Tuesday, September 8, 2026 Time: Starts at 5:30 PM Location: Plano ISD Administration Center, Board Room Address: 2700 W. 15th Street, Plano, TX 75075 Website
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!
Mark your calendars for October 17! Visit colorful cultural booths, and a great variety of vendors, taste ethnic food, participate in interactive games, and SO MUCH MORE! We will keep you posted!
LAUNCH 2027: July 16-18 at the Hilton Anatole Dallas
Mark your calendars now —next year’s LAUNCH will be July 16–18, 2027 at the Hilton Anatole Dallas, 2201 N Stemmons Fwy, Dallas, TX 75207! You won’t want to miss it!
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