On behalf of the Farmingdale High School PTA, I would like to thank the Observer for the wonderful article congratulating our newly elected executive board. I would also like to make a correction - our next meeting will be held on Tuesday, Oct. 19, 7:30 p.m. in the Farmingdale High School Library. All parents are welcomed to attend.

This year National PTA has made parent involvement a national priority. Research has proven that students who achieve and excel in school have involved parents who make education an everyday priority in their lives. Participation at the PTA meetings will include parents in discussions of important school and districtwide events, dates and curriculum issues that will affect your high school student. The meeting is an open forum for a parent to share opinions and concerns with an attending administrator and teacher.

This year the Farmingdale High School PTA will continue to offer parenting programs for the benefit of our parents. The first program will be held Oct. 4, 7:30 p.m. in the high school lecture hall titled "How to Survive The High School Years." Guest speaker, Jamie Bogenschutz, executive director Yes Community Counseling Center in Massapequa, will discuss teenage development - the positive and negative aspects of cliques, identity crisis, how to handle parental rejection, how to read the warning signs of disturbing behavior and how to help or get help. Also on the agenda, Operation SOS (Standards of Success), a districtwide committee of students, parents, teachers and administrators will offer parenting tips on how to be supportive of your student as they prepare to reach higher educational standards set forth by the New York State Board of Regents.

Our membership drive is currently under way. You don't have to be a parent to be a member - you just have to support PTA's commitment and service to all children and its members through increased parent awareness, advocacy, education and involvement. To obtain a PTA membership card just send a $7 check to FHS PTA Membership, 150 Lincoln Street, Farmingdale, New York 11735. Your support will be greatly appreciated.

Tina Diamond, president Farmingdale High School PTA