Bite-Sized: Insights from New York State PTA

Are you ready to be inspired? In this episode, Yvonne Johnson shares her journey from local PTA leader to the national stage, highlighting lessons on advocacy, leadership, and resilience that apply to all PTA volunteers and leaders.Recorded on March 24, 2026.Main Topics:Yvonne Johnson's leadership journey and breakthroughs in advocacyThe importance of building trust and community in PTAHow to effectively lead during challenging timesThe value of professional development and continuous learning in PTAStrategies for fostering family engagement and digital safetyInsights into PTA's programs and resources for local unitsThe key role of hope and authenticity in leadershipTimestamps:00:00 - Introducing Yvonne Johnson, past PTA President and advocate00:31 - Yvonne's background and early involvement in PTA and advocacy01:57 - Her journey from local to national leadership04:21 - The importance of advocacy and voice in PTA06:54 - Mentorship, leadership development, and passing the baton08:40 - Insights into upcoming National PTA convention09:35 - The significance of resolutions and policy advocacy11:54 - Building relationships through in-person conferences12:34 - How PTA is more than just a school organization—it's leadership for families16:38 - Reflection on major decisions during her tenure, including dues increase20:28 - The importance of professional development and standards in PTA leadership23:01 - Resources for local leaders on the PTA Thrive platform26:10 - What most people don't see about leadership at the national level27:37 - Personal facets of Yvonne’s leadership style31:04 - Overcoming challenges and self-doubt in leadership roles36:34 - The power of trust, perseverance, and empathy44:59 - Final message: hold onto hope and the importance of showing up authenticallyResources & Links: ⁠PTA.org⁠ — official PTA website with resources and programs⁠PTA Thrive Platform⁠ — online training and courses⁠PTA Family Engagement Standards⁠ — guiding principles for PTA engagement⁠PTA Connected Program⁠ — digital safety resources for families⁠Reflections Program⁠ — arts recognition program for students⁠PTA COVID-19 Resources⁠ — support for pandemic-related challengesRemember, leadership is about who you show up as — your authenticity, passion, and hope can make all the difference. Join us in carrying forward the legacy of PTA by inspiring others and making an impact in your community.

This episode was recorded live at the NYS PTA Convention in Niagara Falls, NY on Sunday, November 16, 2025. Includes your podcast hosts Robin Brumfield, Kathleen McEnroe, Mary Sotomayor & Sonya Verrillo as well as panelists Brenda Cardoza and Maria Sanders. Ideas were also shared by PTA leaders who attended the workshop/recording.Summary: This conversation explores the multifaceted roles and challenges faced by PTA leaders, emphasizing the importance of teamwork, volunteer engagement, financial accountability, and fostering a supportive culture within the organization. The speakers share personal insights and strategies for building effective teams, recruiting and retaining volunteers, and navigating the complexities of budget season, all while highlighting the collaborative nature of PTA work.TakeawaysPTA leadership is filled with unexpected challenges, and building a strong team often requires reaching beyond traditional members to bring in new voices and perspectives. Micro-volunteering can significantly ease the workload by allowing people to contribute in smaller, more manageable ways, while innovative approaches help PTAs operate more effectively in today’s busy school communities. Volunteers should always feel valued and recognized for their contributions, and maintaining strong financial accountability is essential to the success and credibility of any PTA. Councils should serve as supportive allies rather than overseers, helping local units feel empowered rather than directed. When leaders focus on creating a culture of trust, it encourages open communication and stronger collaboration among schools, which in turn enhances overall community engagement. Through it all, PTA service builds meaningful experience and develops transferable skills that are valuable in many professional settings. Sound bites"Micro volunteering is key.""PTA is a business.""We are not the boss of PTA."Chapters00:00 Welcome to Council Conversations Unfiltered04:42 Building Effective Teams in PTA09:23 Recruiting and Retaining Volunteers14:15 Navigating Budget Season and Financial Accountability17:24 Understanding the Role of Council24:34 Creating a Culture of Trust and SupportKeywordsPTA, leadership, teamwork, volunteers, budget, council, support, community, education, collaboration

Recorded on September 19, 2025 by Mary Sotomayor, Robin Brumfield, Kathleen McEnroe, Sonya Verrillo and NYS PTA President Patty Frazier.This bonus episode of Bite Size Insights from New York State PTA provides an exclusive preview of the 2025 New York State PTA Convention being held on November 14-16, 2025 in Niagara Falls, NY, featuring discussions on the importance of connection, leadership, and personal experiences from past conventions. The hosts share their favorite memories, the impact of conventions on their PTA journeys, and the significance of networking and training in enhancing their roles as leaders. They emphasize the power of encouragement and the ongoing need for development within the PTA community. In this engaging conversation, the participants discuss the evolving role of leadership within the PTA, emphasizing the importance of workshops, community engagement, and youth advocacy. They share insights on how to make council meetings more meaningful, the significance of transportation in school systems, and the value of networking and collaboration. The discussion also covers practical tips for convention planning, the importance of measuring the PTA's mission, and the excitement surrounding upcoming workshops and events. The conversation concludes with rapid-fire questions that highlight personal experiences and advice for first-time attendees.

In our very first episode of Bite-Sized Insights from NYS PTA, meet the Leadership Development Team and hear the stories that brought us to PTA leadership — the wins, the challenges, and the “aha” moments that keep us showing up for our schools and communities. Whether you’re a new PTA leader or a seasoned volunteer, this episode sets the stage for what’s ahead: candid conversations, leadership strategies, and bite-sized tips to help you grow your PTA, engage your school community, and lead with confidence.Hosted by: Mary Sotomayor, Robin Brumfield, Kathleen McEnroe and Sonya Verrillo.