Connecticut Parent-Teacher Association of Connecticut, Inc.

A History - 1900 to Present

IN THE BEGINNING...

Frances Sheldon Bolton was born in New Haven, Conn., on September 22, 1863, the daughter of Judge Joseph Sheldon and Abigail Burrill Barker. A part of her early life was spent in England and Switzerland, and later in Syracuse, N.Y. At the age of twenty she married James Bolton and enjoyed a happy married life for over fifty years. Their first child, Clarence Havelock Bolton, was born seven years after their marriage, and two years later a second son was born, Joseph Sheldon Gerry Bolton. A few years later a daughter Dorothea, brightened their lives. Several years later another daughter, Frances, was born while her mother was president of the Connecticut Congress of Mothers.

From her parents Mrs. Bolton inherited a high idealism, a firm conviction of the necessity of social justice, and a wide sympathy for the unfortunate. Her parents were leaders in woman suffrage, anti-slavery, prison reform and temperance. Judge Sheldon was the author of a bill in the Connecticut State Legislature, which gave equal guardianship rights to mothers and fathers.

As her parents had spent their lives in helping adults. Mrs. Bolton tried to help children, so that the adults of the next generation might escape much of their usual misfortune. From her grandmother she inherited the capacity for boundless love, which with the idealism of her parents, combined to give her an outstanding character. She had tireless energy and spared no pains to realize her high ideals in practical ways. Her personal enthusiasm and courage, as well as social position, we factors in her accomplishments. She was an outstanding figure in the State of Connecticut.

Having trained as a nurse, Mrs. Bolton was naturally interested in child welfare. In speaking of these early years, her daughters write, "To care for her first baby in the finest way possible, Mrs. Bolton sought books on bringing up children. Finding none, she determined to write them herself. In 1894, when only thirty years old, she edited a monthly magazine, THE MOTHERS JOURNAL. Every month for ten years, she composed a number of articles and one special feature signed Materna. Her subjects ranged from Baby's Father, Baby's Bath, through Baby's Food, etc. She wrote with a studied simplicity so that she might appeal to young mothers. Baby's needs could be remembered by the 4 S's: Plenty of Soap, Soup, Sunshine and Smiles.

In 1898, Mrs. Bolton published one of the first books on child care, entitled: BABY. She had first thought of this subject when she was a trained nurse at Pittsfield Maternity Hospital, Massachusetts, in 1883. There she had charge of newborn babies and believed there was nothing more important that giving them a sense of security and love from birth.

With her own beliefs already firmly set in the path of child welfare, Mrs. Bolton welcomed the news that a National Congress of Mothers was to be formed in Washington, D.C., February 17, 1897. She printed the call to the meeting in her Mothers Journal and was Connecticut's sole representative at the meeting. Mrs. Bolton was appointed "organizer" for the Connecticut Congress of Mothers by Mrs. Alice McClellan Birney, first national President,

For three years she attended the National Conventions, each year being urged by Mrs. Birney to found a Connecticut Branch. In 1900 she consented to put the matter to a test.

She wrote three hundred and fifty letters by hand, and mailed them to persons all over the state selecting ministers and their wives, teachers, members of Boards of Education, and others whom she hoped would be interested in the idea. She later said of that first memorable gathering:

"It was the fashion in those days to serve elaborate refreshments at every kind of gathering, and my one fear was that I might not have enough to eat. So, assuming that I might reasonably expect two-thirds of my invited guests to accept, I prepared for two hundred and fifty people. Such mountains of food we prepared! Two washboilers full of sandwiches, salad in every bowl and receptacle in the house, half a dozen kinds of cakes, gallons of ice cream, and more gallons of coffee. Finally, it was all ready and - ten people came." The Bolton family have always declared they lived on sandwiches until spring."

Mrs. Bolton was somewhat discouraged but, as it was an usually stormy day, there was some consolation. She determined to carry on.

"It may be a unique thing," writes Frances Bolton, the Founder's daughter, "that the Connecticut Congress was formed by a group of mothers who were unusually young at the time - in their twenties or thirties. The young mothers in the group of Charter members were active workers. It was a remarkable thing about the Connecticut Congress that it started from so few at the beginning and from such young mothers. But the really important thing about the Congress was the height of its ideals and the breadth of vision its Founder."

To Mrs. Bolton alone belongs the credit of its beginning and safe guidance through these uncertain and precarious years. Unlike Mrs. Birney, she had no wealth and powerful prestige to aid her; she undertook it single-handed. The fact that from its inception, the idea has grown and flourished is due to her untiring energy and prophetic vision.

In 1907, Mrs. Bolton was made Honorary President. Convention resolutions were passed "in hearty and loving appreciation of the earnest, unselfish and devoted labors of its first and beloved president."

Mrs. Bolton continued her interest in organization work and remained an outstanding figure in works of philanthropy all of her life. The New Haven Union, in its publication of January 16, 1910, gives a glowing account of a reception given for Mrs. Bolton in recognition of her civic activities. During the previous summer, when all the other members of the Consumers League and Mothers Clubs were away, in Europe, at the shore, in the mountains, she had remained and opened up Pure Milk Stations to provide for poor, helpless babies. Tribute was paid to Mrs. Bolton's inventive genius, as some of the appliances she had invented to preserve milk, and to handle the bottles more systematically, had been copied in Boston.

Mrs. Bolton died after a short illness August 30, 1936, her energy still undaunted, still active in the work of many organizations, particularly that of the Connecticut Congress of Parents and Teachers. She is buried in Syracuse, N.Y., where her grave is marked by the first bronze replica of the Congress Emblem.

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Frances Sheldon Bolton traveled to Washington, D.C. to attend the first meeting of the National Congress of Mothers. 200 were expected, 2,000 attended! Founders Alice McLellan Birney and Phoebe Apperson Hearst elected president and first vice president respectively. Another vice president was Mrs. Adlai E. Stevenson, wife of U.S. vice president. Mrs. Grover Cleveland gave a reception at the White House.

Mrs. Hearst commissioned Mrs. Bolton to found a Congress of Mothers in Connecticut.

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December 5, 1900

Original Organizing Meeting

Membership: 10

President: Frances Sheldon Bolton, New Haven

Convention Location: December 5, 59 Division St., New Haven

NPTA Rep: Frances Sheldon Bolton

Highlights: On December 5, 1900, Frances Sheldon Bolton, Mother Nurse, Educator, Author and Child Advocate fulfilled her commission from the National Congress of Mothers to found a Connecticut Branch. On an unusually stormy winter day a gathering of ten hardy souls under the leadership of Mrs. Bolton met at her home to organize the Connecticut Congress of Mothers.

The first "club" was probably founded in Oakville, a borough of Watertown , where most schools were one and two room schoolhouses at the time. PTA continues to serve the parents, teachers, students and community of Watertown through Baldwin PTA, Judson PTA and the Watertown-Oakville Special Education PTA.

Charter Members:
Mrs. James Bolton, New Haven
Mrs. Charles Haskell Bush, Short Beach (Branford)
Mrs. E.J. Narramore, Bridgeport

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President: Frances Sheldon Bolton, New Haven

Convention Location: April 17, 18; New Haven

NPTA Rep: Alice McLellan Birney

Highlights: Frances Sheldon Bolton elected president. One hundred delegates from all parts of the state were in attendance. Sending dues of five cents per member to the National Congress was authorized.

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President: Frances Sheldon Bolton, New Haven

Convention Location: April 16,17; Hartford

Legislation/Resolutions: It was reported to the convention that a bill, authored by Mrs. Bolton's father, Representative Sheldon, was passed in the Connecticut State Legislature that granted the father and mother joint charge of their children: mother to be sole guardian of her children at their father's death. In the same session a bill was passed raising the age limit for the protection of girls from 14 to 16 years of age.

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President: Frances Sheldon Bolton, New Haven

Convention Location: April 2; East Haven

Legislation/Resolutions: The Juvenile Court Law was passed by a special act of the Legislature on May 22, 1903.

Highlights: The Connecticut Congress of Mothers joined the Woman's Council of Education. This group was the only organization that had affiliation with all the other societies of women in the state: Connecticut Teachers League, Federation of Women's Clubs, Daughters of the American Revolution, Women's Christian Temperance Union, Collegiate Alumnae, and the Mt. Holyoke Association.

First mention of the need for Mother's Clubs (i.e. Connecticut Congress of Mothers affiliate) to work with the schools to bring about a better understanding between mothers and teachers.

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Membership: 15 clubs

President: Frances Sheldon Bolton, New Haven

Convention Location: April 8; Middletown

Legislation/Resolutions: The probation law was proving effective. State Legislature passes school district law.

Highlights: First Organizer named: Mrs. F.B. Street (continuous until 1930). The necessity for physical education for the development mental as well as physical growth brought to the attention of the membership by Dr. J.W. Seaver of Yale University.

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President: Frances Sheldon Bolton, New Haven

Convention Location: April 2; Bridgeport

Legislation/Resolutions: The convention voted to endorse what the Committee on Education might do to secure legislation to regulate the expenditure granted by the state for schools.

Recommendation was made to amend the existing state law for the care of abandoned children as there was no provision made for the care for abandoned children under the age of four.

Highlights: A nominating committee was created for the first time. The convention voted to have Standing Committee Chairmen appointed rather than elected.

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President: Frances Sheldon Bolton, New Haven

Convention Location: April 4; New Haven

Legislation/Resolutions: Convention unanimously adopted resolutions against every game of chance, both abroad and in raising funds for the Congress' own work, and in favor of reforming the manner of celebrating the Fourth of July.

Mrs. Bolton spoke about the advantages of the Curfew Law that had just been passed in the Legislature.

Highlights: Mrs. Bolton suggested to the Convention delegates that Mothers' Meetings be organized in schoolhouses, stressing the importance of closer relations between the home and the school.

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Membership: 17 clubs

President: Frances Sheldon Bolton, New Haven

Convention Location: April 10, 11; New Haven

National Representative: Mrs. Frederic Schoff, President of the National Congress of Mothers

Legislation/Resolutions: Bylaws amended to provide for two-year terms of office.

An effort was made to introduce the study of music into the Hartford Public Schools. It was announced that the Pure Food Law was being enforced. Connecticut was now the only New England State fully under the district system. First Child Labor Committee created.

Highlights: The improvement of school conditions throughout the state was recommended as practical work of great importance for Mothers' Clubs to do. Mrs. Bolton declined re-nomination. The Convention named her Connecticut Congress' first Honorary President.

Mrs. Walter B. Ferguson elected 2^nd state president.

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President: Mrs. Walter B. Ferguson, Bridgeport

Convention Location: April 9, 10; Waterville

NPTA Rep: President of the Colorado Congress attends Convention

Legislation/Resolutions: Name of the National Congress of Mothers changed to National Congress of Mothers and Parent-Teacher Associations. Bill framed at Consumers' League to place age of child labor at 16 instead of 14 years of age.

Highlights: First International Congress on the Welfare of the Child held in Washington, D. C. Recommendations made that Clubs doing Motherhood work affiliate with the Connecticut Congress.

Mrs. Charles H. Keyes elected 3rd state president.

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President: Mrs. Charles H. Keyes, Hartford

Convention Location: April 28,29; Hartford

NPTA Rep: Mrs. Frederic Schoff, President

Legislation/Resolutions: Teachers pensions were discussed.

Highlights: Frances Sheldon Bolton, first State President, presented with a National Honorary Life Membership by New Haven Mother's Club.

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President: Mrs. Charles H. Keyes, Hartford

Convention Location: April 27, 28; Cromwell

Legislation/Resolutions: Teachers Pension Bill killed in the Legislature. Bills passed required expert supervision of schools, establishment of 2 trade schools yearly, training of teachers in small towns, precautions against fire in schools, establishment of evening schools in every town with a population of more than 10,000 for persons 14 years of age or older.

Highlights: The National Congress established February 17 as Child Welfare Day (Founders' Day). The delegates voted to observe National and State Founders' Day, as well as the recently named Mother's Day.

Mrs. Keyes resigned as Mr. Keyes has been named President of Skidmore College.

Mrs. Berry Lee Mott elected 4th state president.

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President: Mrs. Berry Lee Mott, New Haven

Convention Location: April 20, 21; Waterbury

Legislation/Resolutions: Bylaws amended to admit men members.

Highlights: First Yearbook was issued. Yearbooks were issued annually until the `30s. The Oakville Club changed its name to Parent-Teacher Association, the first in Connecticut to so designate itself. Mrs. Keyes and Mrs. Mott made National Honorary Life Members. A Membership Chairman was designated for the first time. The first Committee on International Child Welfare was created, with Past State President Frances Sheldon Bolton as Chairman.

One share of stock in Child Welfare Magazine, to be held in the name of the State President, was purchased.

The Women's Council of Education, of which the Connecticut Congress was a member, undertook to (successfully) raise $5000 to create a scholarship fund at what is now Connecticut College in New London, to honor the memory of Miss Mary M. Abbott, Chairman of the Women's Council of Education and president of the State Federation of Women's Clubs. The Abbott Memorial Fund was completed in 1916. Even today it continues to provide scholarships at Connecticut College.

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President: Mrs. Berry Lee Mott, New Haven

Convention Location: April 25, 26; Middletown

Legislation/Resolutions: Legislative initiatives relating to the welfare of women and children were actively supported. The Congress and individual clubs worked together with local governmental agencies on Safe and Sane Fourth of July celebrations. Local clubs began to work with Village Improvement Societies and School Boards on issues affecting the welfare of children and youth.

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President: Mrs. Berry Lee Mott, New Haven

Convention Location: April 24, 25; Rocky Hill

Highlights: The President's Fund was created. The white carnation, signifying purity and development (White and Green) was adopted as the Congress Flower.

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President: Mrs. Berry Lee Mott, New Haven

Convention Location: April 30, May 1, East Hartford

Legislation/Resolutions: Connecticut Congress Juvenile Courts (Juvenile Justice) Chairman called the need for codifying Connecticut's laws pertaining to children to the attention of the membership. (Finally accomplished in 1958.) The Convention voted to support Mother's Allowance Bill, Bill for Home Aid to Dependent Children, and a bill calling for the establishment of a Reformatory Home for Women in Connecticut.

Highlights: The State Attorney General authorized the use of the Seal of the State of Connecticut on the "CCM" pin. State President Mrs. Mott was appointed by Mayor Rice of New Haven to assist in preparing the new Charter for New Haven.

At the Convention the Chair explained the two methods for Clubs to affiliate with the Congress: 1. Payment of an annual fee of $1.00, giving the Club the right to representation in the Congress of the president and one delegate; or 2. by payment of a per capita tax entitling the Club to be represented by the president and one delegate for each ten members. This system continues today.

Mrs. Wilfred H. Dresser elected 5th state president.

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President: Mrs. Wilfred H. Dresser, Hartford

Convention Location: April 22, 23; West Haven

Legislation/Resolutions: Peace Committee and Child Welfare Committees created.

Highlights: Reports of Executive Board to be sent to all clubs to keep them informed. A recommendation was made to have fall county meetings.

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President: Mrs. Wilfred H. Dresser, Hartford

Convention Location: April 27, 28; New Britain

NPTA Reps: Mrs. David O. Mears, Natl. 1st VP

Mrs. Milton P. Higgins, Natl. 2nd VP

Legislation/Resolutions: A resolution was passed again in support of the building of a state reformatory for women. Support was expressed for supervision of moving pictures for children.

Highlights: As World War I was raging in Europe, a convention speaker gave a speech on "Preparedness." The first Founders Day Gifts were received for the National Endowment Fund.

A plea was made for the endowment of additional beds for children with tuberculosis. Statistics showed that there were only 85 sanitarium beds for the 4,400 children in Connecticut who had the disease.

Mrs. W.B. Ferguson, Past State President, organized the state of Maine.

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Membership: 48 Clubs, 5,000 members

President: Mrs. Wilfred H. Dresser, Hartford

Convention Location: April 12,13; Bridgeport

Legislation/Resolutions: A resolution was passed endorsing and urging national prohibition as an immediate war measure and its continuance after the war was over. The resolution was sent to President Wilson. Governor and Legislature urged to improve conditions at the Newington Home for Crippled Children.

The Connecticut Congress expressed its support for the extension of Kindergarten. A Kindergarten Extension Committee was created. Support for playgrounds was expressed with the creation of a Recreation Chairman.

Highlights: The membership was urged to cooperate with all war activities. The Connecticut Congress made common cause with the State Teachers' Association to secure better salaries, more stable tenure of office, and more satisfactory "living conditions".

Mrs. George Brinton Chandler elected 6h state president.

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President: Mrs. George Brinton Chandler, Rocky Hill

Convention Location: May 9, 10; New Haven

Legislation/Resolutions: Peace Committee was abolished. In its place Committee on Internationalism is created. Mary Potter named Chairman of Americanization Committee.

Highlights: November 11, 1918, Armistice Day, was greeted with much rejoicing. National Congress named its first field worker. Mrs. H.M. Bullard of Guilford named first state Connecticut PTA Bulletin editor.

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President: Mrs. George Brinton Chandler, Rocky Hill

Convention Location: April 23. 24; Hartford

NPTA Rep: Mrs. Frederic Schoff, Natl. Pres.

Mrs. David O. Mears, Natl. 1^st VP

Highlights: Mrs. Milton P. Higgins, President of the Massachusetts Congress, spoke on "Reconstruction and Vocational Guidance" at the convention. First Regional Conference for the New England States and New York held (later NPTA Region 1).

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President: Mrs. George Brinton Chandler, Rocky Hill

Convention Location: May 20, 21; Bristol

Legislation/Resolutions: Stress was placed on mothers visiting the schools and on aiding out-of-town teachers to secure adequate living quarters.

Highlights: New England Conference held in conjunction with Convention. Dues raised from $.10 to $.15 to make definite income for President's Fund (later for general expenses).

Eighty dollars was contributed toward the National Headquarters Fund.

Mrs. Chandler attended the International Council of Women in Christainson, Norway. 28 nations were represented.

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President: Mrs. George Brinton Chandler, Rocky Hill

Convention Location: April 14, 15; Meriden

Highlights: Dr. A. B. Meredith, Commissioner of Education, advocated the teaching of all children regardless of handicapping condition. He also advocated the re-education of those injured in industry at Trade Schools so that they could be self-supporting.

Committee on Spiritual Training was named. National Congress followed suit. School Lunch Programs were established, physical education stressed. Motion Pictures Committee was established. School Bank System introduced. Connecticut PTA Bulletin printed for the first time.

A special Connecticut Congress meeting was requested by National President Mrs. Higgins to approve the sale of the Washington, D.C. National Headquarters Building and to secure suitable offices for the National Congress of Mothers.

Mrs. E.C. Littlefield elected 7th state president.

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President: Mrs. E. C. Littlefield, West Haven

Convention Location: April 20, 21; West Haven

Highlights: Mrs. Littlefield instituted an Advisory Council composed of leaders of various state departments. The Oak Tree was adopted as the official emblem of the National Congress of Parents and Teachers.

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Membership: 7,561 members

President: Mrs. E.C. Littlefield, West Haven

Convention Location: April 12, 13; Danbury

Legislation/Resolutions: A resolution favoring the World Court was forwarded to President Coolidge. Health programs were introduced into the schools. A dental clinic was formed in the West Haven Schools.

Highlights: The name of the organization was changed from The Connecticut Congress of Mothers to the Connecticut Congress of Mothers and Parent Teacher Associations to conform to the name of the national organization.

Mrs. H. Wooster Webber elected 8th state president.

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President: Mrs. H. Wooster Webber, Ivoryton

Convention Location: June 12, 13; Storrs

Legislation/Resolutions: Student Aid (later Scholarship) and Safety Committees created.

Highlights: Mrs. A.H. Reeves, National President, attended January Board Meeting. National Congress changed its name to National Congress of Parents and Teachers. Affiliation by club changed to individual affiliation by member. First state directory was created. A colored PTA was formed to affiliate with the newly formed National Colored Congress of Parents and Teachers.

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Membership: 9,621 members, 128 units

President: Mrs. H. Wooster Webber, Ivoryton

Convention Location: April 2, 3; Bridgeport

NPTA Rep: Mrs. A. H. Reeves, NPTA President

Legislation/Resolutions: National regulation of the motion picture industry was advocated, modification of the Volstead Act (prohibition law) was opposed. Diphtheria immunization was approved. The drug menace in the schools becomes an issue.

Highlights: The first city PTA Council was organized in West Hartford. The publication, Education Week, proved beneficial to PTAs. From minutes of the January Board meeting: "With a blizzard raging outside, 65 members listened intently to Miss Frances S. Hayes, National Field Secretary on the first visit to Connecticut by a National Field Worker." The organization once again changed its name to conform to the change made the previous year by the National Congress: Connecticut Congress of Parents and Teachers.

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President: Mrs. H. Wooster Webber, Ivoryton

Convention Location: April 22, 23; New London

Legislation/Resolutions: A Law Enforcement Chairman was created.

Highlights: The state office moved to Hartford. The publicity chairman arranged eight educational broadcasts. Fairfield County Council was organized. It was the first county council.

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President: Mrs. H. Wooster Webber, Ivoryton

Convention Location: April 21, 22; Hartford

Legislation/Resolutions: Child guidance becomes an important topic.

Highlights: The first two two-day Institutes with National Field Secretary Mrs. Charles E. Roe were held.

President Webber spoke at a meeting of the World Federation of Education meeting in Toronto. Delegates from 58 countries and provinces were in attendance. Chairman for High School PTA and Mental Hygiene were created. New Haven Council organized.

Mrs. Leslie F. Watson elected 9th state President.

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President: Mrs. Leslie E. Watson, West Haven

Convention Location: April 12, 13; Waterbury

Legislation/Resolutions: The state legislature granted additional funds for the Summer Roundup Children's Health Program. PTA joined with churches of all denomination to fight for weekday religious education.

Highlights: The only towns in Connecticut that lacked libraries were towns lacking PTAs. National Congress adopts a membership card. Windham, Hartford and Middlesex County Councils organized.

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President: Mrs. Leslie E. Watson, West Haven

Convention Location: April 18, 19; Greenwich

Legislation/Resolutions: PTA advocates for mental hygiene and rural education.

Highlights: The first convention registration fee was levied: $.50. Round tables held at convention: Parliamentary Procedure, Rural Education, Mental Hygiene and Home Economics.

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President: Mrs. Leslie E. Watson, West Haven

Convention Location: April 24, 25; New London

Legislation/Resolutions: PTA advocated school courses in Homemaking, Parenthood and Vocational Guidance in both junior and senior high schools.

Highlights: The first PTA Summer School was held at Yale University in New Haven. State Bylaws were extensively revised. "The Children's Charter" was set up by the White House Conference on Child Health and Protection. First Mid-Year Conference held.

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President: Mrs. Leslie E. Watson, West Haven

Convention Location: April 9, 10; Hartford

Highlights: State PTA office moved to Bridgeport. New London PTA Council was organized. Grace Sterling started the first Parent Education training classes in Connecticut under the supervision of the Bridgeport Board of Education. The first Mid-year Unit Presidents' Conference was held.

Mrs. T. Merle Shaw elected 10th state president.

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President: Mrs. T. Merle Shaw, Bridgeport

Convention Location: June 22, 23; Storrs

Convention Theme: "Patient Understanding, Truth Seeking, All Inspiring"

NPTA Rep: Alice Sowers, Parent Education Specialist

Legislation/Resolutions: Economy cuts in Educational appropriations fought. PTA pledged support for all safeguards to childhood throughout the depression.

Highlights: Mrs. Hugh Bradford, National President, attended Mid-Year Unit Presidents' Conference in February. In commemoration of the George Washington Bicentennial, PTAs were encouraged to plant trees in his honor. Trees were planted in Storrs at the Convention in honor or President Washington and CT PTA Founder Frances Sheldon Bolton. New England Council of PTA (now NPTA Region 1) hosted at Convention. Representative Tilson presented CT PTA with a portrait of George Washington.

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President: Mrs. T. Merle Shaw, Bridgeport

Convention Location: April 27, 28; Bridgeport

Legislation/Resolutions: Child Labor and "Equalization" bills endorsed. PTA recognized that inadequate provision was being made for the "feeble minded."

Highlights: The first state PTA budget was prepared. A dues increase allowed for funding of the county councils. A part time paid office secretary was engaged for the first time. A chairman for Exceptional Children was named. CT PTA exhibited at the National Convention in Seattle. "An able legislative committee needed as PTA is becoming ‘a professional educational organization.’"

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President: Mrs. T. Merle Shaw, Bridgeport

Convention Location: April 27, 28; New London

Convention Theme: "Security for Every Child"

NPTA Rep: Frances Hayes, National Field Worker

Legislation/Resolutions: PTA supported Uniform Vehicle Code, district juvenile courts, regional high schools, adequate trade schools, grants for special classes and adequate housing and care for "defectives."

Highlights: CT PTA begins to use themes for conventions. Mrs. Bolton installed the officers. She was presented with a Past President's pin. Tolland County Council organized. Mrs. Charles Roe from the National staff held five-hour Schools of Instruction at the eight county council meetings. Summer session held a Storrs. First Substance Abuse Chairman appointed. Chair of International relations was created.

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Membership: 20,622 members, 253 units

President: Mrs. T. Merle Shaw, Bridgeport

Convention Location: April 11, 12, 13; Stamford

Convention Theme: "Protect, Train, Adjust – In Home, School, Community"

NPTA Rep: Mrs. J.K. Pettengill, Natl. 1^st VP

Legislation/Resolutions: Resolutions supporting statewide safety campaigns were passed.

Highlights: Mrs. Bolton installed the newly elected state officers. A Narcotics Education Committee was created. The state office was returned to Hartford. Litchfield County Council was organized. Mrs. Pettengill led a panel at convention on High School and Junior High School PTAs. Three hundred people came to a special meeting in October to honor her. CT PTA participated in the Italian Civic project, a two-year series of broadcasts on parent education broadcast in Italian.

Mrs. Charles Kilby elected 11th state president.

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President: Mrs. Charles C. Kilby, Hartford

Convention Location: October 1, 2; Hartford

Convention Theme: "New Frontiers in Parent Education"

NPTA Rep: Mrs. B.F. Langworthy, President

Mrs. Charles E. Roe, Natl. Staff

Legislation/Resolutions: PTA supported a bill to abolish compulsory block booking and blind selling of motion pictures. Parental Education, Legislation, Safety Education and Student Aid were emphasized.

Highlights: Because of spring floods in Hartford, the Convention was postponed until October. Mrs. Alice Sowers, National Specialist in parent Education, came to Connecticut for regional meetings. Convention "notebooks" - packets- appeared for the first time. General state office mailings were instituted. Summer Schools were held at Yale University and University of Connecticut at Stows led by Miss Frances Hayes of the National Staff.

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President: Mrs. Charles C. Kilby, Hartford

Convention Location: April 12, 13; New Haven

Convention Theme: "Character Education: The Joint Responsibility of Home, School and Community"

NPTA Rep: Miss Mary England, Membership Chair

Legislation/Resolutions: PTA's major project was a study of social hygiene, alcohol and marijuana.

Highlights: First set of bylaws published. Training for leadership was set as a new goal. Schools of Instruction were held for state and county board members. Miss Hayes of the National staff again held Summer School at Yale University (attendance: 142) and Stows (attendance: 70). Summer Roundup reported over 3,000 children examined in 200 communities.

More contacts were made with upper level educational organizations. All four state Teacher's Colleges (now Central, Eastern, Southern and Western Connecticut State Universities) asked for speakers to present work of PTA for the first time.

Mrs. Charles H. Keyes, CT PTA President 1909-1910 represented the Connecticut Congress at the 40th National Convention in Richmond taking the place of Mrs. Bolton who had died the previous August.

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President: Mrs. Charles C. Kilby, Hartford

Convention Location: April 19, 20; Hartford

Convention Theme: "Building for Tomorrow"

NPTA Rep: Dr. Thomas W. Gosling, Natl. 2nd VP

Special Guest: Mrs. Frederick Hosmer, President, Child Welfare Company

Legislation/Resolutions: Tenure Bill, Merit System for Civilian Employees, School Bus Safety, and Juvenile Court Bill were issues of concern. Areas of study were Civil Service, school libraries, redistricting of the state, aid to dependent children and creation of a separate department of Mental Health.

Highlights: Three regional meetings with Miss Ruth Bottomly, National Secretary of Summer Roundup, were held. Miss Hazel Tobias of Danbury State Teachers College created the first traveling art exhibit.

Organization changed its name once again as it incorporated under the laws of the State of Connecticut. The new name was as it is today: The Parent-Teacher Association of Connecticut, Inc.

Mrs. Clifford F. Thompson elected 12th state president.

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President: Mrs. Clifford F. Thompson, Wallingford

Convention Location: June 6, 7; Groton

Convention Theme: "Forward Together"

Legislation/Resolutions: A bingo bill was opposed. PTA begins its formal legislative study program. Cuts in educational budget threatened loss of teacher training colleges, trade schools and the rural supervisor service. The Governor appointed President Thompson to the commission to study the situation.

Highlights: National Headquarters moved from Washington, D.C. to Chicago. The daughters of Frances Shelton Bolton attend the CT PTA convention.

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President: Mrs. Clifford F. Thompson, Wallingford

Convention Location: April 25, 26; New Haven

Convention Theme: "Ideas and Action"

NPTA Rep: Mrs. James R. Pettengill, Natl. Pres.

Legislation/Resolutions: It was voted that PTA have an active legislative policy with "proper checks and balances."

Highlights: A two-year study of teacher education was begun. Surveys were taken on family accidents, community health, children's radio programs. PTA was represented on Dr. Alonzo Grace's Connecticut Council of Education.

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President: Mrs. Clifford F. Thompson, Wallingford

Convention Location: April 23, 24; Bridgeport

Convention Theme: "The Development of Participating Citizens"

NPTA Rep: Howard V. Funk, Region 1 VP

Highlights: Seven hundred fifty delegates were registered for the state convention. The state office produced, by hand with a mimeograph machine, one thousand seventy-five page convention books.

National Convention was held in Boston with Connecticut serving as one of the host states.

Mrs. Leslie R. Matthews elected 13th state president.

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President: Mrs. Leslie R. Matthews, Fairfield

Convention Location: April 14, 15; Hartford

Convention Theme: "Homes Strong with Spirits Free"

NPTA Rep: Mrs. Albert L. Gardner, President, New Jersey Congress

Legislation/Resolutions: Special War Activities Committee created.

Highlights: PTA dedicated the August issue of Connecticut Parent-Teacher to war issues. PTA cooperated with Schools at War, a major initiative chaired by Mrs. Raymond Baldwin, Connecticut's First Lady. Past State President, Mrs. Clifford L. Thompson elected National Region 1 Vice President. Connecticut Parent-Teacher received two National PTA Certificates of Merit. A one-day Summer Conference was held at Yale University.

One piece of Connecticut granite was incorporated into the design of the monument to National Founder Alice McLellan Birney, the Birney Memorial, in Marietta, Georgia.

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President: Mrs. Leslie R. Matthews, Fairfield

Convention Location: May 3, 4; Hartford

Convention Theme: "Keeping Faith with Youth"

NPTA Rep: Mrs. William A. Hastings, President-elect

Legislation/Resolutions: Narcotics Education Committee reactivated.

Highlights: Five regional conferences with Mrs. Harry Nelson, National Field Service Secretary, were held in place of the Yale Summer School. New Audio-Visual Chairmanship created to address radio and motion picture issues. Connecticut PTA Bulletin incorporated into the Connecticut Parent -Teacher for the "duration."

First national election held by mail.

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President: Mrs. Clifford F. Thompson, Wallingford

Convention Location: April 18, 19; Hartford

Convention Theme: "The Family's Stake in Freedom"

NPTA Rep: Mrs. J. W. Bingham

Highlights: Dr. Martha Clifford, Consultant to CT PTA, appointed National Chairman of Health and Summer Roundup. Leadership training resumed with a series of six one-day regional Institutes.

Mrs. Jesse L. Mariner was elected 14th state president.

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Membership: 37,978 members, 277 units

President: Mrs. Jesse L. Mariner, East Hartford

Convention Location: April 25, New Haven

Convention Theme: "For Every Child - A Chance"

NPTA Rep: Mrs. Carl R. Brister, Chairman, Pre-school Service

Legislation/Resolutions: An active 15-member statewide Legislative Committee appointed.

Highlights: VJ activities for peace. The United Nations is created. PTA extends its cooperation with other organizations through the Service Bureau for Women's Organizations.

Mrs. Newton P. Leonard, National Region 1 Vice President attends Fall County Conferences. CT PTA 1st VP attends Iowa Workshop on Home and School Cooperation.

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President: Mrs. Jesse L. Mariner, East Hartford

Convention Location: April 23, 24; New London

Convention Theme: "Learning to Live in a Larger World"

NPTA Rep: Elise H. Martens, Chairman, Exceptional Child

Highlights: A three-day Institute was held at Danbury State Teacher's College.

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President: Mrs. Jesse L. Mariner, East Hartford

Convention Location: April 29, 30; Hartford

Convention Theme: "Care and Protection of Connecticut Children and Youth"

NPTA Rep: Mrs. James C. Parker, Region IV VP

Mrs. Newton P Leonard, Region I VP

Legislation/Resolutions: State Aid for Education bill passed.

Highlights: NPTA Golden Jubilee Year celebrated. Leadership training developed to keep up with increasing membership. Summer Roundup (health checkups) expanded to year round activity. Scholarship monies doubled to $500. First Rural Town Council organized in Groton.

Connecticut PTA Bulletin re-instated.

Mrs. Otis Howgate (later Mrs. Ralph T. Chamberlain) elected 15^th state president.

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President: Mrs. Otis Howgate, Greenwich

Convention Location: April 26, 27; East Haven

Convention Theme: "Educating for Responsible Citizenship"

NPTA Rep:  
Mrs. H.B. McCarty, Radio Chairman
Dr. and Mrs. Harry A. Overstreet

Legislation/Resolutions: Emphasis placed on elimination of "offensive" comics. Juvenile Protection Committee expanded to include eleven related committees.

Highlights: Founders' Day universally observed with the Misses Bolton serving as consultants. Miss Mildred Wharton, NPTA field worker (college level) visited all four-state teachers colleges and the University of Connecticut. Two Connecticut educators were given scholarships to summer PTA Leadership Workshop at Northwestern University in Evanston IL. CT PTA Education Committee enlarged. A summer conference was held at Willimantic State Teacher's College with the theme "Educating for Responsible Parenthood." CT PTA participates in the first Citizens' Conference on Education. These meetings, held annually, evolved into the Connecticut Conference on Education.

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President: Mrs. Otis Howgate, Greenwich

Convention Location: April 26, 27; Danbury

Convention Theme: "Educating for Responsible Adulthood"

NPTA Rep: Miss Agnes Samuelson, Chairman, School Education

Highlights: First part-time office manager hired. Past State President, Mrs. Charles C. Kilby appointed National Chairman of Social Hygiene. One scholarship was awarded for Summer Workshop on PTA leadership at Northwestern University. Chair of Family Life Education created to work with educators to develop broad integrated program in the schools.

Summer Conference was held at Danbury State Teacher's College with the theme "Educating for Responsible Parenthood."

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Membership: 70,927 members, 34 councils, 448 units

President: Mrs. Otis Howgate, Greenwich

Convention Location: April 19, 20; Hartford

Convention Theme: "50 Years-Only a Beginning"

NPTA Rep: Mrs. John E. Hayes, Natl. Pres.

Legislation/Resolutions: $2,000 in scholarships given to the five-state teacher training institutions.

Highlights: A state history, Our History-1900-1950, edited by Jessie Babcock was published. Mid-century White House Conference on Children in a Democracy was held. CT PTA held summer conference at New Britain State Teacher's College.

National Headquarters Building Fund was launched. Connecticut's goal was $10,000.

Mrs. Carlos deZafra elected 16th state president.

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Membership: 342 units

President: Mrs. Carlos deZafra, New Milford

Convention Theme: "Children in the World Community"

Convention Location: April 25, 26; New London

NPTA Rep: Mrs. C.C. Clark, NPTA VP

Legislation/Resolutions: Authorities urged to increase their allocation of steel and other critical materials for school building programs. PTA opposed licensing of boxing and wrestling exhibitions by youth under 16 years of age. PTA favored control of fireworks.

Highlights: Governor John D. Lodge issued the first "Official Statement" endorsing the enrollment of PTA members. (Governors Lodge, Ribicoff, Grasso, O'Neill and Weicker annually issued such statements.) Mrs. George Crampton, NPTA field representative, conducted 2-weeks of leadership training in Connecticut. Junior high schools and Junior High School PTAs emerged in the wake of the postwar "baby boom."

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President: Mrs. Carlos deZafra, New Milford

Convention Theme: "Everybody's Schools"

Convention Location: April 17, 18; Milford

NPTA Rep: Knox Walker, 1^st VP

Legislation/Resolutions: Drivers education in secondary schools proposed by PTA. PTA supported the creation of Connecticut Public Television.

Highlights: A parent education workshop, "Parent Education Discussion Group Techniques," conducted by CT PTA and National Representative, Dr. Ernest Osborne, was held at the University of Connecticut. The Japanese PTA was a major partner aiding in the project to bring 100,000 cherry tree seeds to American municipalities as a gesture of friendship from Japanese children.

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President: Mrs. Carlos deZafra, New Milford

Convention Theme: "There's Work to be Done! Let's do it Together"

Convention Location: April 22, 23; Danielson

NPTA Rep: Mrs. Rollin Brown, NPTA 1st VP

Legislation/Resolutions: The sale of fireworks in Connecticut banned. Support expressed for full funding of UNICEF: United Nations International Children's Emergency Fund. The State Legislature voted $5,000 for further study of educational television, $100,000 for the continued aid for handicapped children, and monies for vocational schools. PTA urged that centralized library space be planned in new and remodeled school buildings.

Highlights: Ellen Dell Bieler, National Field Consultant, spent three weeks in Connecticut. New PTA Handbook published.

Mrs. Byron Wilcox elected 17th state president.

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Membership: 104,774 members, 512 units

President: Mrs. Byron Wilcox, Cheshire

Convention Theme: "Teamwork-for Better Homes, Schools and Communities"

Convention Location: April 28, 29; Waterbury

NPTA Rep: Mrs. S. Theodore Manduca, VP

Highlights: PTA cooperated with the nationwide testing of the Salk polio vaccine. Milford PTA Council sponsored a bloodmobile, the first PTA council in Connecticut to do so. A statewide Safety Conference was held. PTAs in Tolland and Windham Counties sponsored the first trips to the United Nations in New York. First PTSAs formed.

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1954-1955

President: Mrs. Byron Wilcox, Cheshire

Convention Theme: "What Builds PTA?"

Convention Location: April 27, 28; Hartford

NPTA Rep: Mrs. Clifford Jenkins, VP

Legislation/Resolutions: Laws passed concerning school bus safety, increased aid to education, Teachers Fair Dismissal Law.

Highlights: NPTA headquarters building in Chicago was dedicated. State office space doubled. NPTA's Ellen Dell Bieler conducted a nine-day Leadership Institute in Connecticut.

Mrs. Roy Cole elected 18`" state president.

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Membership: 126,318 members, 568 units

President: Mrs. Roy Cole, Stonington

Convention Theme: "Challenge & Leadership"

Convention Location: April 25, 26; Bridgeport

NPTA Rep: Mrs. James C. Parker, 15^th VP

Legislation/Resolutions: PTA expressed its concern for the education of gifted children. Juvenile protection continued as PTA focus.

Highlights: State President's term set at 2 years. A bookkeeper was engaged for the state office.

President Wilcox visited For Knox (KY) as guest of the Headquarters, First Army, to observe Reserves and enlistees. Golden jubilee of National Parent-Teacher Magazine (now Our Children) observed.

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Membership: 139,868 members, 580 units

President: Mrs. Roy Cole, Stonington

Convention Theme: "An Awakened PTA Builds for the Future"

Convention Location: April 24, 25; New London

NPTA Rep: Pearl Price, Publications Chairman

Legislation/Resolutions: State grant of $75,000 for aid to school libraries passed. Other issues were juvenile protection and safety.

Highlights: The state was redistricted and the first District Planning Committees were formed. A five-day Leadership Institute was held in June with the assistance of Ellen Dell Bieler, National Field Consultant.

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Membership: 141,914, members, 590 units

President: Mrs. Roy Cole, Stonington

Convention Theme: "Tomorrow's Heritage, Today's Children"

Convention Location: April 23, 24; Berlin

NPTA Rep: Mrs. Newton Leonard, Past President

Legislation/Resolutions: Increasing emphasis placed on teaching of foreign languages at all levels. Juvenile protection issues continue to have a high priority.

Highlights: 43% of unit presidents were male, compared to 30% in 1948. Miss Dema Kennedy, National Field Worker, holds Leadership Institute for three weeks in October.

Mrs. Charles Herman elected 19'h state president.

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Membership: 152,197, members, 600 units

President: Mrs. Charles Herman, New London

Convention Theme: "Pathways to Opportunity"

Convention Location: April 29, 30, New Haven

NPTA Rep: Ruth Gagliardo, Region V VP

Legislation/Resolutions: PTA actively supported a fifth year of teacher preparation and favored a ban on objectionable motion picture advertising. PTA recommended that a long-range plan be established in state grants.

Highlights: Mrs. J. Herbert Sizer, office manager, retired after 17 years of devoted service. President Herman represented CT PTA at the first World Congress of Flight in Las Vegas as guest of the US Air Force. In November, she represented Connecticut at the Aerospace Workshop for Education in Miami.

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Membership: 153,610 members, 612 units

President: Mrs. Charles Herman, New London

Convention Theme: "Sixty Years of Vision and Action"

Convention Location: April 27, 28, East Hartford

NPTA Rep:  
Mrs. Philip A. Hyatt (scheduled)
Mrs. Durand Taylor

Legislation/Resolutions: Parent and Family Life Education emphasized.

Highlights: A PTA history pageant in song and story, created by Mrs. Robert Johnson, was presented at convention. The PTA office was staffed full time for the first time. The first joint committee with the Connecticut Education Association (CEA) was formed. Ellen Dell Bieler of the National staff once again provided leadership training in June.

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Membership: 138,445 members, 580 units

President: Mrs. Charles Herman, New London

Convention Theme: "Our Concern for Children - EVERYWHERE"

Convention Location: April 26, 27; Stamford

NPTA Rep: Mrs. Durand Taylor

Legislation/Resolutions: Reading and libraries were of prime concern.

Highlights: PTA and CEA formed a joint committee to strengthen mutual interest in education. This convention was held at the First Presbyterian Church of Stamford, commonly called the "fish" church for its unique architecture.

Mrs. J. Edward Sjolund (later Mrs. Edwin Clark) elected 20th state president.

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President: Mrs. J. Edward (Mildred) Sjolund, Norwalk

Convention Theme: "Education is the Foundation of All Living"

Convention Location: April 24, 25; Meriden

NPTA Rep: Mrs. James Parker, Immediate Past President

Highlights: Family Life Education Project was presented in Greenwich as a result of a Sears Roebuck Foundation grant. Hazel McBride appointed Office Administrator.

Mrs. Harold D. Samuels elected 21^st state president.

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Membership: 139,352 members, 586 units

President: Mrs. Harold D. (Rita Palmer) Samuels, Deep River

Convention Theme: "Family, Community & the Law"

Convention Location: April 24, 25; Manchester

NPTA Rep: Mrs. Berne Jacobsen

Legislation/Resolutions: PTA spearheads drive for school libraries.

Highlights: PTA again received a Sears Roebuck Foundation grant. State office moved to 282 Farmington Avenue in Hartford.

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President: Rita Palmer Samuels, Deep River

Convention Theme: "New Adventures for PTA"

Convention Location: April 29, 30; Hartford

NPTA Rep: Mrs. Fred Bull

Legislation/Resolutions: Legislative issues included adoption and guardianship of minors, child welfare among migrant families, child labor, food and drug protection, library service, mental health service, and safety.

Highlights: Mrs. Charles Litscher elected 22nd state president.

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Membership: 140,507 members, 599 units

President: Eileen Litscher, Shelton

Convention Theme: "PTA Pays Dividends in Educating About Education"

Convention Location: April 28, 29; Milford

NPTA Rep: Frederick Halla, NPTA Membership Commission

Legislation/Resolutions: Work training programs for dropouts were proposed.

Highlights: President Litscher appointed to Council on Delinquency. Two Family Life Institutes were held, one in Danbury and one in Willimantic. Danbury Council airlifts 50,000 pounds of books for the Appalachia Project under the direction of Council President Mrs. Donald Spinella and Assistant Director Irene Barry.

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President: Eileen Litscher, Shelton

Convention Theme: "Critical Issues in Our Democracy"

Convention Location: Danbury

NPTA Rep: Dr. John Smallenberg, Board of Directors

Legislation/Resolutions: Moral and civic apathy and working mothers were particular concerns.

Highlights: PTA worked on projects to prevent children's mental illness.

Norman Ray elected 23rd state president, the first male to be so honored.

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President: Norman Ray, Seymour

Convention Theme: "Better Lives for All Children"

Convention Location: Hartford

NPTA Rep: Mrs. John M. Molloy, Vice President

Legislation/Resolutions: Problem of birth defects is a serious concern.

Highlights: President Ray calls on Governor Dempsey to conduct a comprehensive review of school bus safety. Institute of Family and Human Relations continues.

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President: Norman Ray, Seymour

Legislation/Resolutions: Facts concerning school lunch were published.

Highlights: Dr. Barry Herman, principal of Winchester School spoke on "Working Mothers and Urbanization Affect the Education of Today's Young People" at Convention. Hazel McBride, Office Administrator, retires.

Mildred Bulow elected 24th state president.

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President: Mildred Bulow, Huntington

Convention Theme: "Education Lights the Way"

Convention Location: New Haven

NPTA Rep: Mrs. Irvin Hendryson, President

Legislation/Resolutions: Concerns expressed for the problems of urban education and teacher strikes.

Highlights: NPTA projects instituted in Connecticut. Parent Life Institute held in Meriden. PTA joins the Navy when Chief Petty Officer John S. Capuson becomes Southeast Regional Vice President. Judge Driscoll spoke on juvenile concerns. Workshops on strikes, drug and alcohol abuse. Thelma Parker appointed Office Administrator.

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President: Mildred Bulow, Huntington

Convention Theme: "Changes in Education - Are We Ready?"

Convention Location: Bridgeport

NPTA Rep: Mrs. J. M. Herndon, Secretary

Legislation/Resolutions: Concerns included environmental control, youth in the Age of Aquarius and new dimensions in education.

Virginia Fosberg elected 25th state

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President: Virginia Fosberg, Hartford

Convention Theme: "Who Says You Can't?"

Convention Location: Hartford

NPTA Rep: Mrs. Milton M. Markowitz, Region 8 Vice President

Legislation/Resolutions: Substance abuse issues continued to be serious concerns.

Highlights: Workshops at Convention included answers to the theme's question: Who says you can't work with youth; who says you can't work out human relations problems; who says you can't communicate; who says you can't prevent drug abuse.

NPTA celebrates its 75th anniversary. Mrs. Fosberg resigned as state president.

Arnold Lerner becomes 26th state president.

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President: Arnold Lerner, Hamden

Convention Theme: "An Ounce of Prevention"

Convention Location: New Britain

NPTA Rep: Glen C. Anderson, NPTA Field Staff

Highlights: PTA looks at corrections for children and youth; PTA looks at correctional care; PTA looks at new ideas.

Dolly Schuster elected 27th state president.

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President: Dolly Schuster, Hartford

Convention Theme: "PTA - Plans the Action"

Convention Location: Hartford

NPTA Rep: Grace Bassinger, NPTA VP

Legislation/Resolutions: Safety at home and at school was stressed. PTA fought a State Department of Education proposal to close all public schools at 4:00 P.M. along with other measures, in the face of a national fuel shortage. PTA won!

Highlights: Mercedes McCambridge spoke on "Preventing Alcohol Abuse in Our Youth" at Convention. Workshops included the topics: Family Life Education; Teaching about VD; Teacher Certification and Evaluation.

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President: Dolly Schuster, Hartford

Convention Theme: "Challenge of Change"

Convention Location: Meriden

NPTA Rep: Elizabeth Mallory, Immediate Past President

Legislation/Resolutions: School finance reform became a major issue (Horton vs. Meskill) for PTA. Risk taking behavior and bus safety were concerns.

Highlights: NPTA President Lilly Herndon spent the better part of two weeks in October touring Connecticut and giving valuable leadership training. President Schuster appointed by Governor to Right to Read Commission.

Barbara Kenny elected 28th state president.

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Membership: 76,105 members, 452 units

President: Barbara Kenny, Hartford

Convention Theme: (Mini-Convention) "Challenge of Change"

Convention Location: Oct. 3, 1974; North Haven

NPTA Rep: Lilly Herndon, NPTA President

Highlights: Sole agenda item was an increase of $ .15 in dues.

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Membership: 57,284 members, 395 units

President: Barbara Kenny, Hartford

Convention Theme: "The Local Unit - The Eyes and Ears of the World"

Convention Location: November 5 & 6, 1975, Hartford

NPTA Rep: Madeline Willis

Legislation/Resolutions: School violence and vandalism become issues of concern.

Highlights: Past President Dolly Schuster elected NPTA Region I VP.

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Membership: 51,864 members, 317 units

President: Barbara Kenny, Hartford

Convention Theme: "Speak Up, Speak Out"

Convention Location: November 5 & 6, 1976, North Haven

NPTA Rep: Dudley Flood

Legislation/Resolutions: Issues of racial imbalance, special education and single parenting were discussed. Convention body votes to move Annual Meeting to spring (1977).

Highlights: Violence on television emerges as a serious PTA concern.

Mae Schmidle elected 29th state president.

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President: Mae Schmidle, Newtown

NPTA Rep: Ruth Swenson

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Membership: 54,918 members, 319 units

President: Mae Schmidle, Newtown

Convention Theme: "PTA - The Better Way"

Convention Location: New Haven

NPTA Rep: Dr. Michael Scotti, Jr., M. D., Member, Health & Welfare Commission

Legislation/Resolutions: CT PTA sought legislation to increase state and federal funding of education, to reexamine the 180 day school year and holiday closing requirements and to provide for a mandatory remedial process for failing schools/districts. Scoliosis and kyphosis education and screening were supported.

Highlights: Many challenges and changes impacted education in Connecticut: declining enrollment, the rise of Title I parent organizations and special education.

Mrs. Schmidle, after serving her term, was elected to the General Assembly where she served with distinction on the Education Committee.

Peggy Hugya elected 30th state president.

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Membership: 53,839 members, 315 units

President: Peggy Hugya, Stratford

Convention Theme: "International Year of the Child"

Convention Location: East Hartford

NPTA Rep: Virginia Spading, NPTA President

Legislation/Resolutions: Having a nurse in every school, mandatory eye exams for children and establishment of Teacher Appreciation Day were subjects of resolutions.

Highlights: Teenage Pregnancy, the rights of special children and the developmental effects of radiation were the leading concerns of CT PTA.

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Membership: 48,355 members, 312 units

President: Peggy Hugya, Stratford

Convention Location: (Mini Convention) West Haven

Legislation/Resolutions: Proposal to increase dues from $.30 to $.45 was the sole item on the Convention agenda.

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Membership: 38,204 members, 247 units

President: Peggy Hugya, Stratford

Convention Theme: "Save the Child through Love, Caring, Sharing & Togetherness"

Convention Location: May 1 and 2; North Haven

NPTA Rep: Joan Burnside, NPTA Vice President

Legislation/Resolutions: Authorities were urged to reinstate Equal Educational Funding and meet the commitment to full funding within five years. PTA supported services for rape victims, raising the drinking age to 21 and amending the Bilingual Education Act of 1968 to allow for more flexibility in teaching English to non-English speaking children. CT PTA begins its ongoing fight for legislation to enable towns to elect non-partisan boards of education.

Highlights: Educational funding, single parenting, and special education were particular concerns. Thelma Parker, Office Administrator, retires.

Myra H. Adler elected 31st state president.

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Membership: 38,415 members, 235 units

President: Myra H. Adler, Trumbull

Convention Theme: "Connecticut's Children: A Shared Responsibility"

Convention Location: April 30; East Hartford

Legislation/Resolutions: PTA supported retention of a Cabinet-level Department of Education and the creation of an ongoing dialogue within the U.S. about the risks of nuclear disaster. PTA opposed tuition tax credits and vouchers. Education and training for school personnel to teach them to assist victims of choking accidents was sought.

Highlights: CT PTA received a special membership award from NPTA.

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Membership: 35,354 members, 214 units

President: Myra H. Adler, Trumbull

Convention Theme: "A Strong America Needs Strong Public Schools"

Convention Location: April 29 & 30; Bridgeport

NPTA Rep: Dr. Stephen Glenn, Board of Directors

Legislation/Resolutions: CT PTA took a strong stand against drunk driving, urging its units and councils to familiarize themselves with the efforts being made at the state level.

Highlights: First CT PTA Day at the Legislature takes place at State Capitol. Fairfield Council arrives by school bus. Arnie Fege, Director of NPTA Office of Governmental Affairs, keynoted.

Changing family patterns, nutrition, and child abuse were topics of concern.

Gloria Capelli elected 32nd state president.

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Membership: 37,176 members, 189 units

President: Gloria Capelli, West Haven

Convention Theme: "PTA Cares"

Convention Location: May 4 & 5; New Haven

NPTA Rep: Mayna S. Ungar, Legislative VP

Legislation/Resolutions: Connecticut Coalition for Public Education consisting of all education associations formed to counter tuition tax credits.

Highlights: "Children with AIDS" became an issue as the first 5 children so afflicted were entering the New Haven Public Schools. CT PTA finances strengthened.

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Membership: 38,744 members, 193 units

President: Gloria Capelli, West Haven

Convention Theme: "We Believe in Children – We Believe in Tomorrow"

Convention Location: May 2 & 3; Cromwell

NPTA Rep: Millie Waterman, Chairman, Education Commission

Legislation/Resolutions: Legislation was sought to require seat belt use in passenger cars and to require new school busses be equipped with seat belts.

Highlights: Nutrition and child abuse were topics at Convention.

Peggy M. Perillie elected 33rd state president.

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Membership: 43,008 members

President: Peggy M. Perillie, Trumbull

Convention Theme: "PTA Celebrates 350 Years of Learning & Liberty" (Commemorating the 350`x' Anniversary of Connecticut's settlement)

Convention Location: May 7 & 8; Waterbury

NPTA Rep: Elaine Steinkemeyer, Immediate Past President

Legislation/Resolutions: Resolutions passed do celebrating the American Bicentennial, homebound instruction and children in poverty.

Highlights: The resolution on Children in Poverty, brought to convention by Waterbury PTA Council, was carried to the floor of the NPTA Convention where it passed. The CT PTA Bulletin resumed monthly publication. The Board of Directors was reorganized using the NPTA Commission model. Summer Packet Conferences in each of the regions was established.

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Membership: 44,842 members

President: Peggy M. Perillie, Trumbull

Convention Theme: "In Celebration of Children – 90 Years of Caring"

Convention Location: May 20 & 21; Bridgeport

NPTA Rep: Mayna S. Ungar, 1^st Vice President

Legislation/Resolutions: PTA encouraged policies providing for at least 2 years of study of foreign language by all students. PTA took a stand to promote the concept of school based health clinics. Youth suicide prevention became a serious issue.

Highlights: CT PTA's scholarship was reestablished under the leadership of Past State President Eileen Litscher. It was presented in honor of Christa McAuliffe, teacher and astronaut, who died in the Challenger disaster.

President Perillie appointed to State of Connecticut Juvenile Justice Advisory Committee.

Carol P. Duggan elected 34th state president.

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Membership: 42,521 members, 204 units

President: Carol P. Duggan, Fairfield

Convention Theme: "Speak for Children"

Convention Location: May 19; New Haven

NPTA Rep: Ann Kahn, Immediate Past President

Legislation/Resolutions: Struggle of raising children and school based health clinics continue to be areas of concern. A resolution supporting the creation of a Professional Standards Board for Teachers was debated at convention. It failed!

Highlights: The state office was moved to Hamden, a location more central to the membership. Grace M. Terita appointed Office Manager.

CT PTA sponsored public forum on Commissioner Tirozzi's Report entitled "Racial/Ethnic Desegregation of CT's Public Schools." A survey of parents' attitudes on same topic was conducted. The response rate was over 65%.

Public liability insurance program started. The CT PTA Handbook resumes publication.

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Membership: 51,485 members, 215 units

President: Carol P. Duggan, Fairfield

Convention Theme: "Children - That's What PTA's About"

Convention Location: Cromwell

NPTA Rep: Ann Lynch, 1st Vice President

Legislation/Resolutions: Voluntary desegregation through magnet schools was topic of discussion.

Highlights: Nutmeg Statewide PTA was chartered. CT PTA Bulletin sent to 1,000 Connecticut educators including all superintendents. Board adopted a long range plan. CT PTA showcased four units at CT Principals' Academy Annual Meeting.

President Duggan appointed by Governor O'Neill to the Commission on Quality and Integrated Education.

Christine H. Perry elected 35th state president.

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Membership: 51,469 members, 225 units

President: Christine H. Perry, Westport

Convention Theme: "Parents as First Teachers, Families as First Schools, Networking for the Future"

Convention Location: Trumbull

NPTA Rep: Arlene Zielke, Vice President for Legislation

Legislation/Resolutions: Non-Partisan Boards of Education

Highlights: Attempted to establish the first PTA in the Workplace at Travelers Insurance addressing the needs of the working parent.

Carol P. Duggan appointed to NPTA Board of Directors to serve on the Long- Range Planning Committee.

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Membership: 55,443 members, 235 units

President: Christine H. Perry, Westport

Convention Theme: "Directions for the 90s - Partners in Education"

Convention Location: May 23 & 24; Waterbury

NPTA Rep: Pat Henry, 1^st Vice President

Legislation/Resolutions: A resolution to strengthen parental involvement in education decision making was passed by the body. The 1981 resolution on the election of non-partisan boards of education was reaffirmed as amended. CT PTA voted to accept a resolution that sought placement of responsibility for early childhood education under the aegis of the Department of Education.

Highlights: "Focus on Families" Statewide Conference held with 250 in attendance. Chapter I (Title I) PTA formed. President Perry and Nancy Kalaher represent CT PTA on steering committee for the Connecticut Business for Education Coalition symposium "Rhetoric to Action: Education Excellence for Connecticut's Youth." Barbara Toman joins Project ConnStruct (Science and Math Advisory Committee) as CT PTA representative.

Patricia G. Sidas elected 36th state President.

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Membership: 55,748 members, 245 units

President: Patricia G. Sidas, Wilton

Convention Theme: "Education - A Community Commitment"

Convention Location: May 20 & 21; Waterbury

NPTA Rep: Ann Lynch, Immediate Past President

Legislation/Resolutions: CT PTA voted to support NPTA's policy initiative that confirmed NPTA's commitment to the importance of the role of parents in a child's education. A resolution in support of the Year of Fitness was passed.

Highlights: Taxes, legal issues and communicable diseases were topics of concern. The hours for the state office were expanded to full time. Patricia G. Sidas appointed a member of the Education Commission of the States by Governor Weicker.

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Membership: 56,020 members, 255 units

President: Patricia G. Sidas, Wilton

Convention Theme: "Parents, Teachers, Children & You: Involvement is Key"

Convention Location: April 30, May 1; Waterbury

NPTA Rep: Patricia Campbell, Region 1 VP

Legislation/Resolutions: CT PTA took a strong position in favor of a school breakfast bill. Many resolutions were brought forward seeking to involve the organization in the ongoing debate about "Outcome Based" education. All failed!

CT PTA wrote and copyrighted the brochure "Profiles and the PTA" to assist parents in understanding and using the information contained in the new legally mandated Strategic School Profiles.

Highlights: Uniform leadership training was established in all regions. The Executive Committee wrote and delivered an amicus curiae brief in the Sheff vs. O'Neill desegregation case that asked that the children's needs be placed first in the decision. CT PTA Board members Dr. Marion Giddings and Pam Broderick attended the arguments at the CT Supreme Court.

1^st VP Barbara Toman named to the Commission on Education Excellence for Connecticut.

Barbara Toman (later Ferguson) elected 37th state president.

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Membership: 58,060 members, 264 units

President: Barbara Toman, Trumbull

Convention Theme: "Facing Tomorrow Together"

Convention Location: Waterbury

NPTA Rep: Judy Mountjoy, Secretary

Legislation/Resolutions: CT PTA supported education and teacher certification for dance and drama, local involvement in education reform movements and stricter gun control laws.

Highlights: Gangs and gang violence were special concerns. With the legislature in session debating gun control legislation CT PTA leaders took to the phones at convention, resolution in hand, to lobby for a proposed gun control law. It passed! The school breakfast bill supported by CT PTA the previous year also passed.

President Toman awarded the Bowl of Hygeia by the Connecticut Pharmacists Association in recognition of her positive image as a pharmacist and as a volunteer in the community. She is the first woman to be so honored.

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Membership: 58,154 members, 287 units

President: Barbara Toman, Trumbull

Convention Theme: "Celebrate Children!"

Convention Location: Waterbury

NPTA Rep: Helen Liebowitz, Region 1 VP

Legislation/Resolutions: Issues raised were education for the gifted and CT School Directions for the Future.

Highlights: At the request of NPTA, President Toman testified before the U.S. Senate Subcommittee, chaired by Connecticut's Senator Dodd, on the issue of School Based Health Clinics.

Patty Anderson elected 38th state president.

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Membership: 56,266 members, 284 units

President: Patty Anderson, Easton

Convention Theme: "Making the Difference"

Convention Location: May 7 & 8; Waterbury

NPTA Rep: Joan Dysktra, President

Legislation/Resolutions: CT PTA and a wide ranging statewide coalition worked to prevent passage of legislation that would enable parents to get vouchers for private school education. Issues of adolescence and sex education were considered.

Highlights: CT PTA worked with US Senator Lieberman of Connecticut on "V-chip" legislation requiring a programmable chip be in all new TV sets to assist parents in screening TV shows. Legislation passed.

CT delegation participated in 100th Anniversary of NPTA at the NPTA Convention in Washington, D.C.

President Anderson resigned due to a family move. Tammy Pincavage became 39th state president.

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Membership: 57,866 members, 282 units

President: Tammy Pincavage, Westport

Convention Theme: "Connecticut's Children - Resources for Today and Tomorrow"

Convention Location: November 7 & 8; Waterbury

NPTA Rep: Nancy L. Schlemmer, VP Organizational Services

Legislation/Resolutions: President Pincavage delivered pointed testimony to the General Assembly's Education i