Certified as Parent Involvement School of Excellence
More than 750 students at Ramstein American Middle School in Germany have one more reason to take pride in their school. National PTA has certified RAMS as a Parent Involvement School of Excellence. National PTA’s Parent Involvement Schools of Excellence certification recognizes schools that uphold the highest standards in parent involvement. All schools in the nation are encouraged to submit an application to National PTA.
As part of the certification process, RAMS formed a team consisting of the principal, teachers, parents, students, and representatives from the community; completed a self-assessment; and applied for one of two distinctions—Certification of Excellence or Recognition of Commitment—based on the results of their self-assessment. According to team members, the certification is a symbol of parents, staff, and community members working together for the common goal of helping children succeed.
RAMS has parents involved in many extra curricular activities, such as helping in after school activities, the spelling bee, reflections competition, and helping teachers with their paperwork. The PTSA provides support in many ways, ranging from providing lunch for the teachers at their staff meetings, to organizing and sponsoring the school photo program. The PTSA helps sponsor guest speakers to share their talents with the students and parents. Parents are the reason RAMS succeeds in the transient military community and why it is one of only two schools in Europe to be awarded this honor. Ramstein American High School is the other school.
“Every child deserves to attend a school of excellence,” said National PTA President Linda Hodge. “The certification program is an unprecedented opportunity for all schools to achieve excellence and be recognized for their dedication to parent involvement.”
The American Association of Colleges for Teacher Education, National Association of Elementary School Principals, National Association of Secondary School Principals, National Education Association, and National School Public Relations Association joined National PTA in the development and implementation of the certification program.
For more information about National PTA’s Parent Involvement Schools of Excellence certification, visit www.pta.org or call (800) 307-4PTA (4782).
With 6 million members, National PTA is the largest volunteer child advocacy organization in the United States. A not-for-profit association of parents, educators, students, and other citizens active in their schools and communities, PTA is a leader in reminding our nation of its obligations to children. Since its founding in 1897, National PTA has prided itself in being a powerful voice for children, a relevant resource for parents, and a strong advocate for public education. Membership in National PTA is open to anyone who is concerned with the education, health, and welfare of children and youth.