New Mexico Parent Teacher Association Newsletter

SEPTEMBER 16, 2024

The mission of NMPTA is to make every child's potential a reality

by engaging and empowering families and communities to advocate for all children.

CELEBRATING HISPANIC HERITAGE MONTH, SEPTEMBER 15 THROUGH OCTOBER 15

It's Hispanic Heritage Month—let’s celebrate! Let’s honor the significant contributions and achievements of Hispanic Americans that have enriched our culture. Celebration of Hispanic heritage initially began as a week-long observance in 1968. It was then turned into a month-long celebration in 1988. In 1988, it was also enacted into a law to ensure the United States would pay tribute to Hispanic Americans. Now, Hispanic Heritage month is celebrated September 15 to October 15, with many countries celebrating the anniversary of their independence within this month.

 

Let’s come together to celebrate and learn about Hispanic traditions and customs. Begin by supporting our Hispanic-owned businesses like shops and restaurants. Read books written by Hispanic authors, enjoy watching movies with Hispanic directors and actors, and dance to a playlist of your favorite Hispanic artists. Let’s unite and celebrate together to enrich ourselves in the Hispanic culture.

Learn more about Hispanic Heritage Month

GET FUNDING AND SUPPORT FOR YOUR PTA WITH NATIONAL PTA GRANTS

Are you ready to boost your PTA’s impact in your school? National PTA is offering funding to help bring exciting programs to your community focused on topics like STEM, the arts, digital safety and healthy lifestyles. The best part? The application is quick and easy, with no need for previous grant writing experience. Don’t wait to enhance your school’s offerings and create an inclusive, engaging environment. Keep in mind that funding is not needed to host National PTA programs, but it can help ensure your PTA reaches all families. Discover more and apply now at PTA.org/Grants.


Over $1 million in funding is available. NMPTA can help you prepare your grant! Remember, applications are due Oct 1, 2024.

Learn more about National PTA grants and awards

FREE STEM RESOURCE: EXTRACTING DNA FROM STRAWBERRIES

"Illumina offers a number of free resources for educators and families to introduce genomics and life sciences to young people. From DIY DNA Extraction Kits to short career profile videos and study guides, ready-to-implement resources are available at www.dnaday.org."


Use their step-by-step guide to extract DNA from a strawberry using materials you can gather at home.


Watch a quick tutorial and get the guide

SUPPORT FIRE SAFETY AT HOME

Did you know that almost 3 out of 5 home fire deaths are caused by fires in properties with no working smoke alarms? And tragically, over one child dies a day in a house fire, which is why Kidde wants to help families get prepared and plan a safe escape route before the alarm sounds.

 

This fall, Kidde, North America’s #1 home fire safety brand and proud National PTA sponsor, will launch year three of its Cause For Alarm campaign, which is a fire safety education and awareness-building initiative that addresses gaps in education and access to fire safety measures. 

Learn more about Cause for Alarm

Image credit: Nico Franz from Pixabay

LOCAL LEADER SUPPORT HOUR THIS WEEK WITH WIND DOWN WEDNESDAY

Grab your favorite drinks and snacks and join other PTA leaders virtually for some casual chat and fun. Share your joys and sorrows, get advice, and support one another in this great PTA journey. The group meets on Zoom every 4 weeks at 7:00 pm.


September 18

October 16

November 13

December 11


Other great ways to make direct connections with your fellow local PTA leaders and get support from NMPTA include joining NMPTA's and National PTA's Local Leader Facebook groups.

NMPTA ANNUAL SPONSORS

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Read the latest National PTA Newsletter

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