National PTA Stands With Oklahoma PTA in Assisting Tornado-Ravaged Families, Schools Recover

OKLAHOMA CITY, OK--(Marketwired - May 23, 2013) -

Editor's Note: Out of respect for their privacy, Oklahoma PTA will not be able to facilitate introductions or interviews between members of the media and parents, students, teachers or other school officials. Please contact National PTA for all other inquiries.

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.

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