Dear Members,
I am so excited! In a few short days, we will be holding our first-ever virtual convention. Almost all state PTAs opted to cancel their spring conferences. We decided to jump into this virtual world with both feet. It has been an incredible challenge and far more work than the in-person convention would have been. We have had to develop new processes, create new systems, and invent new procedures. I know that it will all be worth it in the end. The lessons learned this month will serve us for many years to come.
Like you, with your local and council PTAs, the state board of directors has been conducting business virtually. While we had telephone conference call meetings in the past, we now use videoconferencing. The board has also been videoconferencing weekly just to socialize. This has really helped us to feel better connected.
Unfortunately, one bit of work that has had to slow down is preparing our 2020-2024 Strategic Plan. I will report on our progress at the annual business meeting on May 16. However, we probably will not have a chance to finish it until August or so, then publish the full plan in September. My hope is that the 2020-2024 Strategic Plan will help us through the turmoil ahead as we endure then recover from the pandemic.
Be safe and be well,
Andrew L. Estep
WSPTA Executive Director