March, 2003-More than 600 students at Mandeville Middle School in Mandeville LA have one more reason to take pride in their school. National PTA has certified Mandeville Middle School as a Parent Involvement School of Excellence. National PTA's Parent Involvement Schools of Excellence certification program recognizes schools that uphold the highest standards in parent involvement and that help meet parent involvement provisions in the 2001 Elementary and Secondary Education Act, reauthorized as the No Child Left Behind Act. All schools in the nation are encouraged to submit an application to National PTA.

As part of the certification process, Mandeville Middle School 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.

"Every child deserves to attend a school of excellence," said National PTA President Shirley Igo. "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 program, visit www.pta.org or call (800) 307-4PTA (4782).

With more than 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.