OKLAHOMA CITY (May 23, 2013)—The Oklahoma PTA, with support
from National PTA and its network of PTAs across the country and overseas,
commits to help restore the school communities affected in this week’s deadly
tornadoes.
“This week’s severe weather in the Midwest literally hit
home,” said National PTA President Betsy Landers. “All three of the schools
ravaged by tornadoes in Moore, Oklahoma have active PTAs, and our family has
suffered unimaginable loss. In response, we are drawing closer together to assist
the moms, dads, teachers and children who survived that terrible storm. Day in
and day out, PTAs dedicate their time and talents to supporting student success
and making school improvements. Our mission, following this type of tragedy,
simply becomes that much more important.”
The tornado leveled Briarwood Elementary School and Plaza
Towers Elementary School in Moore, Oklahoma. Eight students who attended these
two schools lost their lives on Monday. Highland East Junior High School in the
same area also sustained heavy damage in the massive storm.
“The bravery displayed by teachers and principals in the
path of the storm is remarkable, but not surprising. Each day, they selflessly
nurture, inspire and protect our community’s children. We will be forever in
their debt for the endless sacrifices they make,” said Oklahoma PTA President
Anna King. “As America’s oldest and largest child advocacy association, it is
our duty to help restore these important learning environments and support the
families and teachers as the community rebuilds.”
Volunteers have established the Oklahoma PTA Disaster Relief
Fund to accept financial donations. Funds collected will not be disbursed to
the individual families affected by this tragedy, but will be utilized to enhance
the lives of every child through school and community programs and
enrichment. Checks can be mailed to the
Oklahoma PTA office (2801 N. Lincoln Blvd., Suite 214, Oklahoma City, OK 73105)
until further notice.
The Oklahoma PTA also will accept personal and bulk
donations of basic relief items in new condition, including diapers,
nonperishable food, bottled water and clean-up supplies. A full list of the
critically needed relief items is available at www.okpta.org. All items should
be sent to the Oklahoma PTA office, where they will be processed and
distributed to families in need via the Moore PTA Council’s food pantry.
The PTA must abide by its tax-exempt purpose, as approved by
the Internal Revenue Service, to make every child’s potential a reality by
engaging and empowering families and communities to advocate for all children.
About National PTA
National PTA® comprises millions of families, students,
teachers, administrators, and business and community leaders devoted to the
educational success of children and the promotion of parent involvement in
schools. PTA is a registered 501(c)(3) nonprofit association that prides itself
on being a powerful voice for all children, a relevant resource for families
and communities, and a strong advocate for public education. Membership in PTA
is open to anyone who wants to be involved and make a difference for the
education, health, and welfare of children and youth.
