Olympic Medal Mom Joins Thousands of Families to Kick-Off Special Week

CHICAGO, IL--(Marketwire - February 9, 2009) - Schools nationwide are opening their doors to parents, other family members and caregivers today to kick-off PTA Take Your Family to School Week (February 8-14) -- a weeklong observance to connect parents and families to their children's school experience. This week also marks the beginning of a special partnership; National PTA announced Olympic champion and mom, Dara Torres, as its newest National Ambassador.

To recognize the efforts of schools and families as part of the week, PTA's national office will award $1,897 to 32 PTA schools to help thousands of students and families celebrate PTA Take Your Family to School Week. In 2009, the Take Your Family to School $1,897 Awards are for the second consecutive year sponsored by the AXA Foundation, a Proud National Sponsor of PTA.

In addition, National PTA officers will visit several schools across the country to personally present a "big check" and support their activities. The $1,897 awards honors the day and year PTA was founded (February 17, 1897).

PTAs are receiving cash awards for activities planned that are innovative; inclusive; promote parent and family involvement in schools; emphasize the link between involvement and student achievement; and further PTA's mission.

"I couldn't think of a more perfect time to announce my partnership with National PTA. Take Your Family to School Week really gives today's parents and families a way to get involved," said Torres, a 12-time Olympic medalist and mom. "There are so many things everyone can do. Whether it's simply becoming a PTA member, donating to the cause or getting engaged with advocacy efforts, everyone who cares about children and education has a stake in the future of our country."

Contact the National PTA office to find out what activities PTAs and schools in your community have planned for PTA Take Your Family to School Week.

About National PTA (www.pta.org)

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 organization 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.

To view a media-rich version of this release, go to: http://www.pwrnewmedia.com/2009/pta_020609/index.html

Contact Information: Contacts: James Martinez Office: (312) 670-6782 Ext. 325 Cell: (773) 339-4533 La'Keisha Gray-Sewell Office: (312) 670-6782 Ext. 321 Cell: (312) 623-4560