Warwick Parent-Teacher Associations seek cultural options and diversity for kids

To the editor: The Warwick Valley Council of PTAs is the body that oversees the individual PTAs associated with each school in our district. As such, we have been compelled to gather the facts regarding Santa’s appearance at a recent PTA event. Furthermore, in consideration of the sensibilities of all of the families in our district, we will offer guidelines for all of the PTAs in our district to follow when planning future events of this nature. Simply stated, we will institute a policy that is supported by the district, using balance when coordinating a PTA event. Sincere effort will be made to offer multi-cultural options in activities that will appeal to a diverse group of children. Sanfordville PTA did an exemplary job of this at their very successful Winter Wonderland Breakfast. If Santa will be included, other figures or representations must also be included. Of course, as with any PTA event, attendance is never mandatory; every family has the option of skipping a particular event if it is not aligned with their culture or beliefs. The goal of the PTA is to enhance each child’s educational experience. It is never our intention to alienate any family, or more importantly, make a child feel left out. In that vein, we encourage every card carrying PTA member to step forward and bring along your culture and your creative juices. Join us in coordinating current programs or in creating new and exciting programs and events that can become the next generation of PTA traditions. As volunteers, we work very hard at our events to earn the funds to pay for educational programs and assemblies, educational supplies, recreational equipment and even refreshments. In an austerity year, our contribution is invaluable. After a lengthy discussion with Dr. Greenhall, we are confident that Warwick’s students will continue on the path to success, bolstered by the cooperative efforts of an open-minded administration and its supporting PTAs. It is our hope that this spirit of mutual support will be encouraging to voters when it comes time for the budget vote this spring. Sincerely, Warwick Valley Council of PTAs Virginia Snigur, president Jodi Denmead, vice president Kate Bisaro, treasurer Jeanne Linkens, secretary