Parent Teacher Association volunteers in Texas and around the country are being celebrated for their community contributions during Volunteer Appreciation Week.

In 1974, the third week in April was designated as a time to celebrate adults who make sure all students have what they need inside and outside of the classroom.

National PTA President Yvonne Johnson said people often associate the organization with fundraisers and parties, but school safety is a number one priority for the volunteers.

"It's part of our public policy priorities, and that's all about making sure that we have common-sense gun laws, and that we are making sure that kids feel safe and supported in schools," she said. "And PTA makes sure that we, the parent or the family, has a seat at the table."

The Robert Driscoll Middle School PTSA in Corpus Christi and the T.C. McCormick Junior Middle School PTSA in Buda received grants from the National PTA to create dedicated spaces in their schools for grieving students.

The PTA is celebrating 129 years in existence. Johnson said the volunteers speak up for every child and makes sure families have what they need to navigate challenges and difficult situations.

"We are the reason there [are] kindergarten classes in schools, child labor laws, hot and healthy lunch programs, juvenile justice system mandatory immunizations," she said. "We want schools to be safe, including digitally safe."

She added that parents and kids can show their appreciation for volunteers by giving them handwritten thank-you notes, creating an art project or bringing them baked goods.

Source: Public News Service