New York Students Honored in National PTA Reflections Program 2026
May 4, 2026
New York Students Honored in National PTA Reflections Program 2026 New York State PTA received
New York Students Honored in National PTA Reflections Program 2026 New York State PTA received
For over 50 years, students have been sharing their personal stories by creating theme based,
Albany, NY (January 2026) New York State Parent Teacher Association (NYS PTA), in conjunction with
ALEXANDRIA, Va., (Feb. 9, 2026)—National PTA is pleased to announce the recipients of its 2026
At NYS PTA, our work is grounded in a simple but bold belief: every child
Students were challenged to create a poster, video, or essay to express their feelings on
September 2025 (Albany) – We are excited to share that NYS PTA and Northwell’s Katz
The NYS PTA Literacy Committee is thrilled to thank all the Regions that submitted their
Advocate in Action Award – This award acknowledges the involvement of PTA members in their child’s education as well as in their PTA.
Community Service Award – This award recognizes groups of individuals for their dedication and achievement to the children and youth of New York State.
Distinguished Service Award (DSA) – This award recognizes outstanding contributions to the welfare of children and youth, or to a PTA association.
Diversity, Equity and Inclusion Award – This award will be given to a Unit, Council or Region that demonstrates a leadership commitment to diversity and inclusion through recruitment, training and retention efforts.
Environmental Excellence Award – The Environmental Excellence Award celebrates the outstanding efforts of PTA units, Councils and members who demonstrate exceptional dedication to promoting sustainability and environmental awareness within their schools and communities.
Family Engagement Award in Honor of Jami-Beth Knapp – This award honors those that continue the work and dedication of Jami-Beth Knapp in family engagement.
Golden Oak and Diamond Awards for Special Recognition – These awards are a special way to honor your most dedicated volunteers.
Honorary Life Membership (HLM) – This award recognizes individuals for their contributions to the welfare of children and youth.
Leadership Award in Honor of Jane Skrzypek – This award recognizes an outstanding leader in your PTA who inspires others to volunteer and assume leadership positions.
Leadership Development Pin – a symbol of your commitment to growth and leadership within our community! This isn’t just a pin; it’s a badge of honor that recognizes your efforts to lead and inspire.
Pick A Reading Partners Award: Recognizes outstanding PARP program at the region and state levels.
Reflections Theme Search: Each year students throughout the state have the opportunity to submit their ideas for future Reflections Program themes. Five NYS PTA state winners are chosen and forward to National PTA for the Theme Search Contest.
Jenkins Memorial Scholarship for Teacher Education: Available for graduating seniors pursuing a career in education.
Susanne Smoller Commitment to Advocacy Youth Award: Will be awarded to one high school senior to encourage them to pursue post-secondary education or training and to continue their active engagement in advocacy in the areas of HIV/AIDS, the LGBTQ+ community, mental health, social justice or substance use.
Youth Humanitarian Award in Memory of Stanley Marcus: Recognizes a high school senior or junior who exemplifies humanitarianism.
Innovative Teacher Grant: Gives innovative teachers the opportunity to put their ideas into action. It is awarded to worthy projects that significantly influence student learning
Teacher Fellowship for Graduate Study in Memory of Richard Gazzola: To support continuing education of teachers.
PTA is a powerful voice for all children, a relevant resource for families and communities, and a strong advocate for the education and well-being of every child.
Click Here to view the full Mission/Vision of NYS PTA
New York State Congress of Parents and Teachers is the first state branch of the National Congress, organized in October 1897. In 1899, it was incorporated as The Mothers’ Assembly of the State of New York.
In 1920, it was reincorporated as the New York State Congress of Mothers’ and Parent-Teacher Associations. In 1925 the name was changed to the New York State Congress of Parents and Teachers, Inc.
Legislative Summit and Lobby Day: Held in February, PTA child advocates meet in Albany to address concerns about trends and conditions affecting children and youth and visit with state policy makers to lobby for change
Summer Leadership Conference: Training through workshops and idea-sharing are offered to assist unit and council leaders in all facets of leadership and held at the end of July or beginning of August.
State Annual Convention: Held in November, nearly 400 members from across the state come together to share information, elect officers, adopt resolutions and attend workshops.
New York Parent Teacher: Produced four times a year, this periodical focuses on topics of concern to parents, educators and others interested in the well being of children and youth.
NYS PTA Resource Guide: A comprehensive resource of PTA information; available for all members on the Your PTA section of the NYS PTA website.
Literacy (Pick a Reading Partner) – In this section of the website you will find resources on literacy and our Pick a Reading Partner (PARP) program.
Arts and Reflections – In this section of the website you will find resources on arts and the National PTA Reflections program.
Family Engagement – Family Engagement is a school-family partnership that raises student achievement, improves school and community, and increases public support.
Civic Engagement – Supporting students, families, and PTAs in building the knowledge and skills for civic participation.
Every Child Travels Safely – This safely initiative will focus on transportation safety and see that children and caregivers increase safety in all aspects of child travel.
Every Child Healthy – This program focuses on ensuring children have access to quality health coverage and care, while promoting health and wellness as they grow.
Every Child’s Mental Health – Supporting student mental health remains one of NYS PTA’s highest priorities. We are thrilled to announce expansion of our work to support student and youth mental health, in partnership with the NYS Office of Mental Health.
Empower Every Child to Be Gambling Free – Talking to youth about the risks and consequences of engaging in underage gambling activities can make a difference in the choices they make. Parents and caregivers, educators and community members can take steps to prevent youth gambling behaviors.
Empowering Women, Building Resilient Families – NYS PTA and Northwell’s Katz Institute for Women’s Health are partnering to arm parents with the information they need to make informed healthcare decisions and prioritize their wellbeing.
Growing Together for a Greener Tomorrow – Engage students, families, and the community in fun, educational, and eco-friendly activities that promote sustainability and environmental awareness.
Other National PTA Programs – National PTA has other programs available to states and local PTA Units.
Parent/Family Resources – In this section of the website you will find resources on numerous topics for parents pertaining to parent involvement, engaging educators, and helping students.
The New York State PTA provides field service to local units statewide through region conferences, workshops, schools of instruction, publications and materials.
One Wembley Court, Albany, New York 12205-3830
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www.nyspta.org
pta.office@nyspta.org