Lindop District 92 Board OKs Creation of Parent-Teacher Association

(Broadview, IL) – After a lengthy, community-wide debate and research by administrators, the Lindop School District 92 Board of Education this week voted in favor of establishing a Broadview-based Parent-Teacher Association.

The board, which approved the PTA initiative at its regular, November 21 board meeting, also heard substantial public comment before the vote.

"The establishment of a PTA within our district is an important step towards enhancing our community's educational experience. While making this transition, the district will continue its work alongside the current PTSO leadership” said Board President Aaron Hannah. “I am deeply appreciative of Superintendent Dr. Janiece Jackson's diligent and thoughtful work in spearheading this initiative. Her commitment to our students, their families, and our teachers has been exemplary."

Superintendent says PTA will bolster efforts to foster “holistic educational development” at Lindop.

“By choosing to establish a PTA, Lindop School District 92 is embracing a framework that not only involves parents and teachers in the educational process but also integrates them into a larger community dedicated to improving education at Lindop,” said Dr. Jackson. “A Lindop PTA, which will benefit from the support of the national parent organization, signifies a commitment to holistic educational development and community engagement in Broadview.”

Dr. Jackson noted that the decision to opt for a PTA over a Parent-Teacher Organization (PTO) was based on a PTA’s superior educational benefits.

“The decision to form a PTA, as opposed to a Parent-Teacher Organization, is rooted in the unique benefits that a PTA offers,” said Dr. Jackson. “While both PTA and PTO are parent-teacher groups, there are distinct differences, and the benefits of PTA far outweigh those of a PTO.”

Among the benefits, Dr. Jackson noted several:

• National Support and Resources: Unlike PTOs, PTAs are part of a national organization, providing access to a broader range of resources, training, and advocacy programs.
• Advocacy: PTAs have a strong focus on advocacy, working at local, state, and national levels to improve education policies.
• Community Involvement: PTAs often engage in community-wide issues and collaborate with other schools and districts, fostering a more extensive network of support and resources.
• Standardized Structure: PTAs follow a standardized structure with guidelines provided by the national organization, ensuring consistency and effectiveness across chapters.

Broadview Mayor Katrina Thompson, who attended the board’s November 21 meeting and offered public comment, supports the board’s decision.

"The Board of Education's choice to create a PTA, under the guidance of Dr. Janiece Jackson, is a testament to the board members’ and our community's dedication to educational excellence, and I wholeheartedly support their decision,” said Thompson. “Dr. Jackson's vision and leadership are invaluable assets to our school district."

davidormsby@davidormsby.com