The Sewanhaka Central Council of PTAs is the largest PTA Council in New York state, comprised of 15 elementary schools, five high schools and two SEPTAs (Special Education PTAs). We are unique in New York state inasmuch as four different elementary school districts feed into one central high school district. Central Council brings all 22 units from five school districts together to inform, instruct and inspire leaders of the individual units and to be responsive to their needs. Through council, units have the opportunity to compare projects, successes and concerns.

Since each of us belongs to two distinct school districts, it is sometimes difficult for elementary school parents to find out what is happening in their local high school. By attending council meetings you have the opportunity to get answers to your concerns and learn more about all five high schools in our district. At each meeting there are representatives from each of the five high schools who always are happy to answer your questions.

We would like to extend an invitation to the entire Sewanhaka community to attend the next council meeting on Oct. 3 at H. Frank Carey High School in Franklin Square. The general meeting will be from 7 to 8 p.m. Immediately following the general meeting will be a presentation, co-sponsored by the Sewanhaka Central High School District and Sewanhaka Council entitled "The truth about adolescence. What every parent needs to know." Caryl Oris, MD, psychiatrist, lecturer and educational consultant will suggest strategies in which parents and teachers can work with students facing the transitions of adolescence. This program is a must for both teachers and parents. Please join us for this very informative meeting.

Mary Corbett, Publicity Chair