Each year, state PTAs must choose one PTA that represents the best in their state. The winners are honored at the National PTA Convention as Advocates for Children Award winners. The article lists the 1994 regional winners from the eight PTA regions. (SM)

The importance of cooperative and honest interaction between a school and parents in making a good decision about whether or not to retain a child is emphasized. The roles of school and parents are defined. An inset box summarizes research findings on retention and lists other alternatives to promotion. (MT)

An interview with a former principal reveals the principal's point of view regarding the delicate PTA-principal partnership, including discussion of: parent-principal relationships; principals' fears of parent organizations; points of conflict in such relationships; and parents' roles in decision making. (CB)

Suggestions for planning a successful health fair include determining its focus and audience, planning a variety of activities, making learning booths fun, and planning exciting workshops. (CB)

The school dropout problem is discussed, with suggestions for parents on ensuring that their children do not become part of the dropout population, including; monitoring children's school attendance patterns; making sure children understand how important school and attendance is; maintaining close contact with teachers; and helping children…

When planning a conference with the school principal, parents should remember that principals do not have the autonomy of those from past eras. To help ensure a successful meeting, parents can plan ahead, outline expectations, and not expect an immediate solution. (DF)

Parents' commitment to education is a key factor in quality schooling. In practice, parents can encourage in children positive attitudes toward school and learning, become involved in educational issues, and show support for teachers and schools. (IAH)

Offers questions for parents to ask when determining whether their child's school health program is sufficient. Issues to examine include time allotted for health education, types of school services provided to help teachers with the subject, instructional methods, outside health services, and additional staff (e.g., nurses and counselors). (SM)

Principal Gene Bedley of El Camino Real School in Irvine, California, is the 1985 winner of the National PTA Hearst Outstanding Educator of the Year Award. Mr. Bedley believes that education is a shared experience and builds strong relationships with teachers, parents, and children. Some of his techniques are described. (MT)

The frequency of foreign language instruction in the public schools has waned, but the need for foreign language comprehension has not. Parents can be a resource for providing interest in global education. Suggestions for PTA involvement are given. (DF)

Several suggested activities from the National Parent Teacher Association are suggested for involving parents in education. Categories discussed include: parents as participants in their children's education; parents as school volunteers and supporters; and parents as participants in decision making. (CB)

A list of questions has been compiled to help teachers work with parents on common reading problems of students. (DF)

This article presents a rationale for exposing children to art and suggests activities and strategies for parents who want to support their children's art education at home, at school, and in the community. (IAH)

Parents and teachers who are informed about epilepsy can avoid unpleasant classroom situations. A brief explanation of epilepsy is followed by information on what to do in case a seizure occurs at school. The best policy is for parents to forewarn the school and create an appropriate plan. (SM)

Schools need to initiate changes that will aid latchkey parents. Three conditions which need to be addressed are: school personnel's attitude about single parents, accessibility of school personnel to the working adult, and availability of guidance facilities for the student and parent. Programs and modifications in daily classroom operations are…